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Runes of Pain and Peace #2
The Prince's Mage
Her life is a miracle. So is his plan for peace. Will their lies destroy any chance they have together and their one shot at ending this war? There is only one thing Marcella excels following orders. Her orders are to bring her clan’s leader a prince to use against their enemies. Her feelings don’t matter. She can’t stay trapped in the enemy’s palace, and she can’t let this war come to a head where countless more will perish. However, the prince who would do anything for her is the son his parents would gladly see in the hands of their enemies. His brother, on the other hand… But can she betray the man who has sacrificed everything for her? Gavril almost lost his wife and would have thrown peace to the wind if she had not stopped him. Now, he won’t let anything threaten her safety while he brings peace between their people. If he can give her what she claims to want most in her heart, maybe then he’ll finally be what replaces it. Can he achieve the impossible and finally tell his wife exactly what she means to him?
462 pages, Paperback
Published September 16, 2023
8 people are currently reading
210 people want to read
About the author
Celeste Baxendell
23 books1,032 followersCeleste Baxendell has always read anything she could get her hands on, but once she read her first fantasy novel, she was hooked and hasn’t looked back since.
Her love of magic, adventure, and romance hasn’t waned with age, and she endeavors to write nail-biting stories with compelling, complex characters, and finding light in dark times.
She is incredibly blessed to spend her time writing from her favorite chair with her legs curled up under her as she fights the southern heat. When she isn’t writing, she’s either reading, drawing, or sewing, in that order, and most likely thinking about writing as she does.
Her love of magic, adventure, and romance hasn’t waned with age, and she endeavors to write nail-biting stories with compelling, complex characters, and finding light in dark times.
She is incredibly blessed to spend her time writing from her favorite chair with her legs curled up under her as she fights the southern heat. When she isn’t writing, she’s either reading, drawing, or sewing, in that order, and most likely thinking about writing as she does.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
February 7, 2024
"Dum spiro spero. While I breathe, I hope."
Gavril stubbornly continues to believe that peace is possible between his and Marcella's people, but it calls for a miracle. That Marcella is still alive is a miracle in itself, so maybe she also dares to believe that peace is possible. But will their lies get in the way?
"The Prince's Mage" takes off exactly where "The Prince's Captive" ended, and we continue to get both Marcella's and Gavril's POV's. There are still some problems with the language barrier, but with the help of Gavril and Aimilia, Marcella gets better at their language. She also starts to believe that Gavril really cares for her and want to protect her, and slowly her own feelings begin to change. At the same time she feels loyal to her own people and as a soldier Marcella is used to obey orders, so when her chiefess Hypatia demands that she kidnaps the prince she needs to put her feelings aside and do as she's told.
I started this book several months ago and when I didn't have time to read it in time for the release I had to put in on pause a couple of times because of other deadlines. It's been no problem picking it up again, but it's made me a bit unsure about the length of the book. Maybe it could have been shortened in some places, but - as I'm well aware of by now - Celeste Baxendell doesn't like to write short books! 😁
In conclusion, I have to mention Nikias, Gavril's big brother. He undergoes the biggest transformation and I loved that we got his POV in the epilogue. I want to read more about Nikias! And Aimilia! 😉
* I received an ARC from the author and I'm giving my honest review. *
Gavril stubbornly continues to believe that peace is possible between his and Marcella's people, but it calls for a miracle. That Marcella is still alive is a miracle in itself, so maybe she also dares to believe that peace is possible. But will their lies get in the way?
"The Prince's Mage" takes off exactly where "The Prince's Captive" ended, and we continue to get both Marcella's and Gavril's POV's. There are still some problems with the language barrier, but with the help of Gavril and Aimilia, Marcella gets better at their language. She also starts to believe that Gavril really cares for her and want to protect her, and slowly her own feelings begin to change. At the same time she feels loyal to her own people and as a soldier Marcella is used to obey orders, so when her chiefess Hypatia demands that she kidnaps the prince she needs to put her feelings aside and do as she's told.
I started this book several months ago and when I didn't have time to read it in time for the release I had to put in on pause a couple of times because of other deadlines. It's been no problem picking it up again, but it's made me a bit unsure about the length of the book. Maybe it could have been shortened in some places, but - as I'm well aware of by now - Celeste Baxendell doesn't like to write short books! 😁
In conclusion, I have to mention Nikias, Gavril's big brother. He undergoes the biggest transformation and I loved that we got his POV in the epilogue. I want to read more about Nikias! And Aimilia! 😉
* I received an ARC from the author and I'm giving my honest review. *
October 7, 2023
This duology was so full of angst and back and forth feelings of not being worthy of the other. And LIES and secrets and all of it in the name of seeking peace.
Horrid parents
An insane chiefess
A dash or more of torture. Literal torture
A best friend with unrequited love
It’s got some good quotes.
“I am tired of fighting - but the fight is not tired of you”
For a book about war there was very little battlefield fighting
Horrid parents
An insane chiefess
A dash or more of torture. Literal torture
A best friend with unrequited love
It’s got some good quotes.
“I am tired of fighting - but the fight is not tired of you”
For a book about war there was very little battlefield fighting
May 30, 2025
This second book was even better than the first, with a enthralling and complicated romance, convoluted politics and negotiations, and rich, intriguing primary and side characters. I enjoyed the idea of Greece and Rome in a fantasy setting (if I interpret correctly) and the message of being one people and that peace is worth every struggle.
January 11, 2026
This end of a romantic fantasy slow burn enemies to sweethearts duology was great. And I’m so excited to see more books being added to it. My one complaint of book 1 was the language gap but that has eased up greatly in this book. It was a thrilling read that I read through in a single day and am eagerly running to grab the next book. Mages and war, families and friends, with the past abuses and torture, is peace even an option? I can’t say much more without giving away spoilers but Marcella is a strong heroine and her protective hero Prince Gavril has the sweetest heart towards her. This is a just kisses romance, intimacy level 2.
Content warnings: torture, abuse, war
Content warnings: torture, abuse, war
September 17, 2023
The Prince's Mage was an amazing sequel! Gavril and Marcella were dynamic together, and the way every detail wove together was beautiful!
I need to see whats next for Nikias though...there's just something about those morally grey characters that really pique my interest, and now I'm invested 😉
I need to see whats next for Nikias though...there's just something about those morally grey characters that really pique my interest, and now I'm invested 😉
January 12, 2025
I didn’t start liking this book until about 60%. I felt like there was too much back and forth of I like you, I hate you, I like you, I hate you. The story was going nowhere. It just seemed dragged out. The last half of the book actually progressed and it became more enjoyable.
dnf
January 5, 2024While I love Gavril and Marcella, I'm not a fan of the magic. I'm going to shelve this and move on. It's more of a me thing. I just feel convicted to put this down and move on.
September 10, 2023
I was very excited to receive an ARC of the second book in the Runes of Pain and Peace series by Celeste Baxendell. The Prince's Mage is the sequel to The Prince's Captive and the highly anticipated conclusion to Marcella and Gavril's tantalizing love story. The first book had me on the edge of my seat from all the juicy romance and suspense but left me with a feeling of discomfort due to the awful situations that Marcella ends up in because of the feud between her clan and Gavril's. This book resolves those issues so they can have a chance to live in peace. Gavril and Marcella are star-crossed lovers like Romeo and Juliet. The more passionate their feelings are toward each other, the more people seem to get hurt along the way. The Prince's Mage provides a thrilling conclusion to their love story demonstrating how true love can overcome seemingly impossible odds.
When we left Marcella at the end of The Prince's Captive, her worst fear became realized. In what she believed to be her final moments, she comes to terms with her love for Gavril and can think of nothing but him, crying out his name with her last ounce of strength. Meanwhile, Gavril believes he has failed Marcella in every way possible, even as he races to her rescue. When they are offered an impossible second chance, he is determined to do things properly this time. He no longer allows his people to treat Marcella as a prisoner and gives her a real bed instead of a prison cell, allowing her to enjoy at least some of the benefits of being his wife. There is more for him to atone for, however, because he is still unable to bring himself to reveal to her that they are married, something that she was unable to grasp due to the language barrier between them. This book allows them both to come to terms with their mistakes and grants them the opportunity to start fresh.
Like the first book in this series, The Prince's Mage is a dark story that is filled with both physical and emotional torture. The undying love between Gavril and Marcella is the one light in the darkness that makes the book difficult to put down. Both Marcella and Gavril suffer from PTSD as a result of the horrid torture tactics of Gavril's clan and spend most of the book comforting each other and learning to rely on each other as a source of support. Their stubborn refusal to lean on each other is challenged by Aimilia, an excellent mediator whose feelings for Gavril are proven genuine when she places his happiness above all else, even if it means he won't be with her. In another time, she would have been a romantic rival, but with today's standards of princesses forgiving their enemies, Aimilia is a wonderful friend to both Marcella and Gavril, making her a worthy lead for the next set of books in this series.
In spite of the characters' suffering, this book was a pleasure to read due to the tantalizing star-crossed romance. It introduces a world that is such a difficult place to live in that the only safe place for Marcella is with Gavril and vice versa. At the end of the story, all the torrid conflicts are resolved, and the feud between the two rival clans is elaborated upon. The reason for Marcella's capture revolves around her resemblance to her leader, Hypatia, who had murdered the wife of Gavril's brother, Nikias, in cold blood. This book gives Nikias an opportunity to come to terms with his anger toward Hypatia and ultimately accept that revenge never solves anything. It fully fleshes out Nikias as a character, paving the way for his role in the next set of books as well.
The Prince's Mage is a captivating and thrilling conclusion to Marcella and Gavril's story in the Runes of Pain and Peace series by Celeste Baxendell. Through the undying love between Marcella and Gavril, this book demonstrates how true love can overcome seemingly impossible odds. The story resolves the feuds between rival clans, providing a satisfying resolution. Marcella and Gavril's love shines throughout the dark themes of the book, making it difficult to put down. As they learn to rely on each other and find solace in their bond, the characters endure and grow, overcoming their own personal demons. Aimilia, a wonderful friend to both Marcella and Gavril, adds another layer of depth to the story, paving the way for the next set of books. The Prince's Mage is a perfect blend of romance, suspense, and redemption that is perfect for lovers of YA fantasy and romance.
When we left Marcella at the end of The Prince's Captive, her worst fear became realized. In what she believed to be her final moments, she comes to terms with her love for Gavril and can think of nothing but him, crying out his name with her last ounce of strength. Meanwhile, Gavril believes he has failed Marcella in every way possible, even as he races to her rescue. When they are offered an impossible second chance, he is determined to do things properly this time. He no longer allows his people to treat Marcella as a prisoner and gives her a real bed instead of a prison cell, allowing her to enjoy at least some of the benefits of being his wife. There is more for him to atone for, however, because he is still unable to bring himself to reveal to her that they are married, something that she was unable to grasp due to the language barrier between them. This book allows them both to come to terms with their mistakes and grants them the opportunity to start fresh.
Like the first book in this series, The Prince's Mage is a dark story that is filled with both physical and emotional torture. The undying love between Gavril and Marcella is the one light in the darkness that makes the book difficult to put down. Both Marcella and Gavril suffer from PTSD as a result of the horrid torture tactics of Gavril's clan and spend most of the book comforting each other and learning to rely on each other as a source of support. Their stubborn refusal to lean on each other is challenged by Aimilia, an excellent mediator whose feelings for Gavril are proven genuine when she places his happiness above all else, even if it means he won't be with her. In another time, she would have been a romantic rival, but with today's standards of princesses forgiving their enemies, Aimilia is a wonderful friend to both Marcella and Gavril, making her a worthy lead for the next set of books in this series.
In spite of the characters' suffering, this book was a pleasure to read due to the tantalizing star-crossed romance. It introduces a world that is such a difficult place to live in that the only safe place for Marcella is with Gavril and vice versa. At the end of the story, all the torrid conflicts are resolved, and the feud between the two rival clans is elaborated upon. The reason for Marcella's capture revolves around her resemblance to her leader, Hypatia, who had murdered the wife of Gavril's brother, Nikias, in cold blood. This book gives Nikias an opportunity to come to terms with his anger toward Hypatia and ultimately accept that revenge never solves anything. It fully fleshes out Nikias as a character, paving the way for his role in the next set of books as well.
The Prince's Mage is a captivating and thrilling conclusion to Marcella and Gavril's story in the Runes of Pain and Peace series by Celeste Baxendell. Through the undying love between Marcella and Gavril, this book demonstrates how true love can overcome seemingly impossible odds. The story resolves the feuds between rival clans, providing a satisfying resolution. Marcella and Gavril's love shines throughout the dark themes of the book, making it difficult to put down. As they learn to rely on each other and find solace in their bond, the characters endure and grow, overcoming their own personal demons. Aimilia, a wonderful friend to both Marcella and Gavril, adds another layer of depth to the story, paving the way for the next set of books. The Prince's Mage is a perfect blend of romance, suspense, and redemption that is perfect for lovers of YA fantasy and romance.
October 11, 2023
It’s dragging along VERY slowly. I’m at 40% and not sure how much further I’ll go. It’s well written, the characters are good, but nothing is happening. And it know both have been traumatized but I’m honestly getting tired of the nightmares. I get it, I do, but so far the book has consisted of they went to a library (one of two) then are waking from nightmares. They may occasionally eat in between the library and he nightmare. And repeat, again and again. I started skipping and skimming bits already and that’s not promising for the rest of the book. Will update if I finish but as it stands I could only recommend if you read the first and HAVE to know the ending (which I’m trying for), or it gets a good editor who slices it down to size. One or two library/nightmare sessions would be enough.
Ok I did finally finish it.. but I skimmed or skipped large sections to do so. I just couldn’t take any more of the whining and “I’m worthless, weak, nobody” parts from Marcella and Gavril. If the book was edited to make it shorter and take out the repetitive parts (the nightmares, the worthless rants, and the dialogue that couldn’t be understood-which thankfully there was less of than the fist book) this could have been an excellent book. As it is I had to force myself through all that to get to the ending. Oh and I really was getting sick of each of them lying and hiding things from the other. And then they just forgave as if it was nothing. For once I’m not anxiously awaiting the next, I’ll probably read it but it’s not going to be top of the list.
Ok I did finally finish it.. but I skimmed or skipped large sections to do so. I just couldn’t take any more of the whining and “I’m worthless, weak, nobody” parts from Marcella and Gavril. If the book was edited to make it shorter and take out the repetitive parts (the nightmares, the worthless rants, and the dialogue that couldn’t be understood-which thankfully there was less of than the fist book) this could have been an excellent book. As it is I had to force myself through all that to get to the ending. Oh and I really was getting sick of each of them lying and hiding things from the other. And then they just forgave as if it was nothing. For once I’m not anxiously awaiting the next, I’ll probably read it but it’s not going to be top of the list.
August 31, 2023
What a great story and this ending to a star crossed lovers journey to peace! You MUST read The Prince’s
Captive BEFORE reading this book! You need the whole two books to understand how a lookalike sent to die finally allows her heart to see that the prince who captured her really loved her and wanted only to protect protect her! Both hide secrets from each other but after the terrible ordeal she faced in the cliffhanger to book one, Marcella can’t dismiss the feelings she feels for Gavril anymore. Through her torture his voice and face sustains her and a miracle occurs only she isn’t aware of until some time later!
Marcella makes friends with a woman who initially hated her because she took Gavril away from her. Together with Gavril the three of them try to bring about the seemingly impossible task of proving to their people that they and Marcella’s are really the same clan and that they possess the same magic only use it differently because of how they have been taught!
Marcella is betrayed by Nikias again after professing that he wants to help them and Nikias exposes the secrets Marcella tried to hide. Gavril doesn’t think he can ever trust her again even though he himself still has kept secrets from her.
In a last ditch bid for peace he has Marcella accompany him and tells her he is going to allow her to take him captive to the enemy camp of her people to try and arrange a peace between the two peoples with him being exchanged at the end as part of the bargain.
Things get tense and when her former chiefest demands the suffering of Aimilia Marcella refuses to allow that only that Nikias, Gavril’s brother, be the one to suffer because of what he allowed his people to do to her!
This story will tug at your heartstrings because of the passion and determination of Gavril, Marcella and Aimilia to broker peace between their people’s! It’s a page turning, adrenaline rush that you’ll be hard-pressed to put down before you’re finished! It’s well written and the story and plot will have you hooked right from the start!
I heartily recommend you get both books- in fact I insist you do because this story must be read in its entirety to really make an impact on you! You must read both books to understand this story! It’s so well written and it flows seamlessly that you’re going to be hooked before you’re very far into book one!
For a story you’ll truly love get these two books today and settle back and let the master storyteller Celeste Baxendell entertain you for the next few days as you’ll find yourself immersed into a story you won’t want to end!
Happily there is another book coming out which will deal with Nikias and Aimilia which will probably include seeing your other two friends Marcella and Gavril as well!
Treat yourself to a two book series you’re going to love- trust me you won’t regret getting these two
books!
Captive BEFORE reading this book! You need the whole two books to understand how a lookalike sent to die finally allows her heart to see that the prince who captured her really loved her and wanted only to protect protect her! Both hide secrets from each other but after the terrible ordeal she faced in the cliffhanger to book one, Marcella can’t dismiss the feelings she feels for Gavril anymore. Through her torture his voice and face sustains her and a miracle occurs only she isn’t aware of until some time later!
Marcella makes friends with a woman who initially hated her because she took Gavril away from her. Together with Gavril the three of them try to bring about the seemingly impossible task of proving to their people that they and Marcella’s are really the same clan and that they possess the same magic only use it differently because of how they have been taught!
Marcella is betrayed by Nikias again after professing that he wants to help them and Nikias exposes the secrets Marcella tried to hide. Gavril doesn’t think he can ever trust her again even though he himself still has kept secrets from her.
In a last ditch bid for peace he has Marcella accompany him and tells her he is going to allow her to take him captive to the enemy camp of her people to try and arrange a peace between the two peoples with him being exchanged at the end as part of the bargain.
Things get tense and when her former chiefest demands the suffering of Aimilia Marcella refuses to allow that only that Nikias, Gavril’s brother, be the one to suffer because of what he allowed his people to do to her!
This story will tug at your heartstrings because of the passion and determination of Gavril, Marcella and Aimilia to broker peace between their people’s! It’s a page turning, adrenaline rush that you’ll be hard-pressed to put down before you’re finished! It’s well written and the story and plot will have you hooked right from the start!
I heartily recommend you get both books- in fact I insist you do because this story must be read in its entirety to really make an impact on you! You must read both books to understand this story! It’s so well written and it flows seamlessly that you’re going to be hooked before you’re very far into book one!
For a story you’ll truly love get these two books today and settle back and let the master storyteller Celeste Baxendell entertain you for the next few days as you’ll find yourself immersed into a story you won’t want to end!
Happily there is another book coming out which will deal with Nikias and Aimilia which will probably include seeing your other two friends Marcella and Gavril as well!
Treat yourself to a two book series you’re going to love- trust me you won’t regret getting these two
books!
June 11, 2024
I couldn't review this from my phone for some reason, so I came here to do it. That's how much I liked the book.
There were very compelling scenes of heroism and sacrifice, good discussions of the difficulties of faith, and interesting characters. Only in two cases did I find the transition from opponent to ally to be faintly unbelievable, but that's a necessary hazard of writing a book: you can't wait the more believable number of years for someone to come around.
Some comments on the writing: it would be more fluid and graceful to my ears and eyes if the word 'like' weren't used so often instead of 'as'. I see that people are using this construction more and more, but to me it sounds childish (not necessarily true, depending on region) and ungrammatical (which it is, despite the news peeps using it all the time). If you are employing Latin as an alternative language, it sounds particularly wrong. The rule I was brought up on is that 'like' is used only for directly comparing to a noun, all other comparisons should use 'as', as in: It looks like a bird, but it sounds as if it is a mouse. Another example is: He felt like a jerk but his new roommates seemed as if they understood. This usage would have prevented several awkward sentence constructions I made notes of. I also made other notes if the author is interested.
I apologize that Amazon is blocking all my reviews, so this review won't be posted there. They took exception to a truthful and perspicacious review I did on a book I genuinely think was not written by a real human but an AI construction or a CCP plant (The reason? The stilted language and sentences sounded as if written by someone Asian who learned English in a class. The book was so derogatory of America, conservatives and Americans in general, with a hopeless tone presenting such an exaggerated negative portrayal of American families, parks and habits that I suspected they neither knew real Americans, nor understood them). Then I took exception to Amazon's exception (twice) and so here we are. I think they probably decided to say I was being racist, but since I dearly loved my Chinese sister-in-law (killed in the Binghamton massacre years ago), that's a lot of hogwash. I don't have to love the CCP to love all people.
I started reading The Prince's Mage on Kindle Unlimited about five days ago, I guess.
There were very compelling scenes of heroism and sacrifice, good discussions of the difficulties of faith, and interesting characters. Only in two cases did I find the transition from opponent to ally to be faintly unbelievable, but that's a necessary hazard of writing a book: you can't wait the more believable number of years for someone to come around.
Some comments on the writing: it would be more fluid and graceful to my ears and eyes if the word 'like' weren't used so often instead of 'as'. I see that people are using this construction more and more, but to me it sounds childish (not necessarily true, depending on region) and ungrammatical (which it is, despite the news peeps using it all the time). If you are employing Latin as an alternative language, it sounds particularly wrong. The rule I was brought up on is that 'like' is used only for directly comparing to a noun, all other comparisons should use 'as', as in: It looks like a bird, but it sounds as if it is a mouse. Another example is: He felt like a jerk but his new roommates seemed as if they understood. This usage would have prevented several awkward sentence constructions I made notes of. I also made other notes if the author is interested.
I apologize that Amazon is blocking all my reviews, so this review won't be posted there. They took exception to a truthful and perspicacious review I did on a book I genuinely think was not written by a real human but an AI construction or a CCP plant (The reason? The stilted language and sentences sounded as if written by someone Asian who learned English in a class. The book was so derogatory of America, conservatives and Americans in general, with a hopeless tone presenting such an exaggerated negative portrayal of American families, parks and habits that I suspected they neither knew real Americans, nor understood them). Then I took exception to Amazon's exception (twice) and so here we are. I think they probably decided to say I was being racist, but since I dearly loved my Chinese sister-in-law (killed in the Binghamton massacre years ago), that's a lot of hogwash. I don't have to love the CCP to love all people.
I started reading The Prince's Mage on Kindle Unlimited about five days ago, I guess.
September 4, 2023
Marcella is still a prisoner in the place she fears the most. Her orders have changed: bring a prince back to the clan, and peace might be accomplished. But the prince who wants peace and would be willing to go with her is as worthless to his people as she is to hers. All she wants to do is tell him she loves him, but will he forgive her the lies she has to tell?
Gavril’s one aim was to bring peace, but he’s given that all up to save his wife. The nations can burn for all he cares after what they’ve done to her. But will he be able to tell her the truth before it’s too late? Or will he lose her and his hope of peace?
“You have been my hope for peace since the beginning, but more than that you have been my hope of love returned.”
Where to begin? Everything about this book was amazing. The heartbreak between Gavril and Marcella as they grew closer was the perfect continuation of their love story. Their dilemmas in wanting to protect the other while also desperate for a peace between their peoples.
This was the perfect conclusion of The Prince’s Captive, and the epilogue promised something I’ve been hoping for since the end of the first book.
5 Roses.
A few in-world swears, nothing major. There are in-world slurs implying certain things about the female prisoner.
Swoony kisses between a married couple.
Injuries, but not dwelt on in any gory detail. Minor scenes of torture; implications of abuse.
(Thank you to the author for the ARC of this book. This is my honest review.)
Gavril’s one aim was to bring peace, but he’s given that all up to save his wife. The nations can burn for all he cares after what they’ve done to her. But will he be able to tell her the truth before it’s too late? Or will he lose her and his hope of peace?
“You have been my hope for peace since the beginning, but more than that you have been my hope of love returned.”
Where to begin? Everything about this book was amazing. The heartbreak between Gavril and Marcella as they grew closer was the perfect continuation of their love story. Their dilemmas in wanting to protect the other while also desperate for a peace between their peoples.
This was the perfect conclusion of The Prince’s Captive, and the epilogue promised something I’ve been hoping for since the end of the first book.
5 Roses.
A few in-world swears, nothing major. There are in-world slurs implying certain things about the female prisoner.
Swoony kisses between a married couple.
Injuries, but not dwelt on in any gory detail. Minor scenes of torture; implications of abuse.
(Thank you to the author for the ARC of this book. This is my honest review.)
September 11, 2023
This picks up right where the last one left off, Marcella on the table and Gavril racing back. After pulling Marcella off the table, she is weaker than she wants to be and both are plagued by nightmares from what they are to face together. Gavril is weighed down by the need to give his father answers or risk losing his vitae. Marcella is trying to find a way out with Hypatia’s orders whispering in her ear but finds a better solution through the peace that Gavril wants. Now they are working together with Aimilia to prove that there should be peace between the two nations, not war. When a breakthrough is found, Marcella is pushed to find this peace faster than what her weakened state allows because Hypatia is demanding results. Secrets from both Gavril and Marcella are revealed, pushing both sides to all out war. Can the peace that Gavril believes in and that Marcella has experienced be found before it is too late?
I agree with Aimilia, these two are idiots for each other and about their actions. But they are idiots for the right reasons. Seeing these two struggle for each other and realize the depth of their feelings is something I enjoyed. The last third of this book was fun to read, I don’t want to spoil things but my favorite interactions and moments came from that part of the book. We get to meet Hypatia’s husband and that poor man, I love him and would love to see more of him if there is more to this series.
Received as an ARC and this review is voluntary.
I agree with Aimilia, these two are idiots for each other and about their actions. But they are idiots for the right reasons. Seeing these two struggle for each other and realize the depth of their feelings is something I enjoyed. The last third of this book was fun to read, I don’t want to spoil things but my favorite interactions and moments came from that part of the book. We get to meet Hypatia’s husband and that poor man, I love him and would love to see more of him if there is more to this series.
Received as an ARC and this review is voluntary.
April 3, 2025
Like a few other reviewers, I felt that the first half of this book dragged with too much angst (hate, love, worthlessness, failures, planned betrayals, reiterating all of the reasons for all of the above, etc.), but around the 60% mark, the action picked back up. From there, the story was a very skilled meshing of political intrigue and character development, and the ending messages were a fair commentary on all the agony leading up to that end.
The characters are all complex with conflicting motivations. It feeds into the angst that makes up the first half of this book, but it also makes for some fascinating development in the second half, especially for the side characters. I'm looking forward to hopefully getting Nikias' story, and I wonder if there's any chance of seeing a certain other character in a fresh light now that certain prices have been paid and promises between factions must be upheld ().
You will want to have read the first book before getting into this one; all events are direct continuations of book one.
The characters are all complex with conflicting motivations. It feeds into the angst that makes up the first half of this book, but it also makes for some fascinating development in the second half, especially for the side characters. I'm looking forward to hopefully getting Nikias' story, and I wonder if there's any chance of seeing a certain other character in a fresh light now that certain prices have been paid and promises between factions must be upheld ().
You will want to have read the first book before getting into this one; all events are direct continuations of book one.
September 25, 2023
What can I say?
I've said it all in her previous works: amazing, work of art, masterpiece.
Celeste Baxendell is an author whose writing only gets better with each book.
I adored Gavril—the only man willing to fight for peace in a world drenched in blood. The only man able to love in a world so full of hate.
And Marcella! She was so broken, so perfect. As always, Celeste showcases her talent for creating a cast of perfectly imperfect characters.
I love the friendship between Gavril, Marcella and Aimilia and how unexpected it was. I love how she risked everything to save them even though she hated Marcella in the beginning.
This story evoked in me a kaleidoscope of powerful emotions—fear, anger, laughter, hate, grief, love—and most of all, hope.
I love, love, love this author and every singgle thing she writes. Each story is unique, every character is different, and each ending is better than the last.
I can't wait to see what she reveals next
* I received this book as an ARC copy from its author and am writing this honest review of my own free will.
I've said it all in her previous works: amazing, work of art, masterpiece.
Celeste Baxendell is an author whose writing only gets better with each book.
I adored Gavril—the only man willing to fight for peace in a world drenched in blood. The only man able to love in a world so full of hate.
And Marcella! She was so broken, so perfect. As always, Celeste showcases her talent for creating a cast of perfectly imperfect characters.
I love the friendship between Gavril, Marcella and Aimilia and how unexpected it was. I love how she risked everything to save them even though she hated Marcella in the beginning.
This story evoked in me a kaleidoscope of powerful emotions—fear, anger, laughter, hate, grief, love—and most of all, hope.
I love, love, love this author and every singgle thing she writes. Each story is unique, every character is different, and each ending is better than the last.
I can't wait to see what she reveals next
* I received this book as an ARC copy from its author and am writing this honest review of my own free will.
October 6, 2023
"Every breath she took was one she wasn't supposed to have. She wouldn't have if not for the miracle she'd been granted. Every breath was hope she could have peace. Hope she could keep Gavril despite her mistakes."
I became obsessed with Marcella and Gavril in the first book, and I am so happy with how things ended in this sequel! I'm just sad that I have to say goodbye to these characters. Although, I'm sure they will make at least a small appearance in Nikias' story in the next book.
Although the themes throughout were pretty heavy, there was an undercurrent of hope and resilience that was so bright in the darkness of this world. Gavril and Marcella have such a beautiful enduring love. I was pretty worried about the ending because of how bleak things appeared at times! They are now one of my favorite book couples.
Read if you enjoy books that include:
Enemies to Lovers
Forbidden Romance
Royal Romance
A Unique Magic System
Creative World Building
5/5 stars
TW: Violence, Torture, PTSD
I became obsessed with Marcella and Gavril in the first book, and I am so happy with how things ended in this sequel! I'm just sad that I have to say goodbye to these characters. Although, I'm sure they will make at least a small appearance in Nikias' story in the next book.
Although the themes throughout were pretty heavy, there was an undercurrent of hope and resilience that was so bright in the darkness of this world. Gavril and Marcella have such a beautiful enduring love. I was pretty worried about the ending because of how bleak things appeared at times! They are now one of my favorite book couples.
Read if you enjoy books that include:
Enemies to Lovers
Forbidden Romance
Royal Romance
A Unique Magic System
Creative World Building
5/5 stars
TW: Violence, Torture, PTSD
December 22, 2023
A nice finish to the story of Gavril and Marcella, with a bit of teaser at the end for who will be the next couple featured in the series.
Honestly, I wasn't impressed with the beginning of the book, and by that, I mean nearly the entire first half. Nothing happens (after Gavril saves Marcella), except lots of research (interesting to do, boring to read about), so much emotional agony, and so many secrets. SO. MANY. SECRETS. I understand why it happens, and the author did a great job of having very understandable and relatable characters, so I couldn't even fault them too much, but it just wasn't fun to read.
But I was invested in these characters and this world and I wanted to know what happened. This author makes her characters fight for their happily ever after, so once things began to happen in the second half, they were fast and furious and it was INTENSE. I probably would still choose to read the book again, but it would have been nice to know ahead of time what an emotional wringer this series would put me through.
Honestly, I wasn't impressed with the beginning of the book, and by that, I mean nearly the entire first half. Nothing happens (after Gavril saves Marcella), except lots of research (interesting to do, boring to read about), so much emotional agony, and so many secrets. SO. MANY. SECRETS. I understand why it happens, and the author did a great job of having very understandable and relatable characters, so I couldn't even fault them too much, but it just wasn't fun to read.
But I was invested in these characters and this world and I wanted to know what happened. This author makes her characters fight for their happily ever after, so once things began to happen in the second half, they were fast and furious and it was INTENSE. I probably would still choose to read the book again, but it would have been nice to know ahead of time what an emotional wringer this series would put me through.
January 7, 2025
So worth it!! The character development, no, the character REDEMPTION in this book is so powerful! I loved seeing them progress towards their goal, all dealing with their own personal struggles (and lies) but still growing closer to each other in the process! Amilia was such a good friend, and Nikias almost made up for what he did. All I can say is Marcella is a better person than I am, because I sure as heck wouldn’t forgive as easily as she did. To be entirely honest (spoilers ahead) I was bummed the wedding chapter was in Nikias’ pov because I wanted to know all the sweet things Marcella and Gavril said to each other, but that is truly my only complaint. Also I LOVE Konstantin, he’s honestly such a good brother and I hope they get closer as well, I’d love to see that relationship grow because he deserves happiness too, maybe more than anyone. Anyways, highly recommend this series to anyone who loves fantasy but doesn’t want it to be aggressively romantic or entirely focused on the romance. Great story!!
September 23, 2023
Will Gavril and Marcella get their peace? The King always calls Gavril “boy”, while he calls Nikias “son”. Gavril’s mother and father often apply physical punishment, when they are displeased with anything Gavril does. They seem to have no love for their second son. Gavril cannot seem to keep Marcella safe in Areator as he is constantly thwarted in his attempts by his parents and brother. He devises a daring plan to keep Marcella safe. Questions are answered and problems are solved in unique, but probably questionable ways. This is a more loving story between Marcella and Gavril and contains less abuse for them both than in the first book. Also, there are hints of an interesting alliance between Nikias and a friend of Gavril’s. I really liked Konstantin of Montis, Hypatia’s husband. He appeared to have a good sense of honor, and I liked the trick he pulled on Hypatia. I received an ARC copy from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 14, 2023
I'm a huge fan of Celeste Baxendell's work but this duology just didn't keep my attention like her other books have. I struggled to figure out how much time exactly Marcella and Gavril had together, but I found myself getting irritated by the the dialogue between them. Marcella still doesn't haven't a decent grasp on Gavril's language despite getting help and being taught it. You'd think someone whose been a prisoner or even just surrounded by people who speak this other language she would have picked up more by now. I already disliked her as a character in the first book and my dislike continued into this one. I loved the idea of this story but wish the language barrier hadn't been such a huge thing because reading dashes and every "third word said" that she could comprehend gets exhausting at times. I also found the ending to be too neatly wrapped up which for me doesn't make a great read.
Read
March 4, 202452% and I can't read it anymore. It's fine. It's well-written and makes sense, but I hate Gravil in this one. I think I could stand a taste in book 1, but this book there are some character traits that come out which I personally don't like. He's controlling, hypocritical, love-struck fool syndrome, and emotionally manipulative, but like not smart manipulative, he genuinely gets upset and expects forgiveness from a prisoner who just got tortured by his people, and he's the only thing preventing her from getting dead or tortured again, so of course said prisoner is going to make friends. He also makes promises he can't keep and doesn't seem capable learning from his mistakes.
I could argue more, but ultimately it's just not the type of romance fantasy I enjoy. If you liked Amanda Bouchet's A Promise of Fire this will be more up up your romance alley.
I could argue more, but ultimately it's just not the type of romance fantasy I enjoy. If you liked Amanda Bouchet's A Promise of Fire this will be more up up your romance alley.
February 12, 2025
Oh my goodness. This book. AHHHHH. This book was such a beautiful ending for Gavril and Marcella. Celeste's intricate worldbuilding continued, drawing me deeper and deeper into this world.
The characters are flawed, hopeful humans that had me falling in love with them more and more as the story progressed. The alliance/relationship between Marcella and Amilia, between Marcella and Konstantin was so wonderfully written. It had such a relatable quality to it and I found myself grinning like crazy over their interactions (you know, once the tension had passed).
This book does end with a HEA, but also leaves you little crumbs for Nikias's story (which I hope is coming soon).
This is a no spice, fantasy romance with lush worldbuilding, intricate politics and incredibly relatable characters.
The characters are flawed, hopeful humans that had me falling in love with them more and more as the story progressed. The alliance/relationship between Marcella and Amilia, between Marcella and Konstantin was so wonderfully written. It had such a relatable quality to it and I found myself grinning like crazy over their interactions (you know, once the tension had passed).
This book does end with a HEA, but also leaves you little crumbs for Nikias's story (which I hope is coming soon).
This is a no spice, fantasy romance with lush worldbuilding, intricate politics and incredibly relatable characters.
September 7, 2023
A wonderful finish to this two-book journey with Gavril and Marcella. It was certainly a ride, and at times I doubted there would be a HEA. Thankfully, Celeste has yet to let readers down there. : )
The ending tied up nicely with a lead in for further books with other characters. I’m very picky about hating cliff hangers and this is completely fine for me. It whet my appetite for more in this world, but didn’t leave me hanging and wishing I hadn’t read the book yet.
I would suggest this book for 15-16 year olds and up due to violence and themes like it. It is clean romantically, though we do have a few kisses in this one.
While I received an ARC version of this book, all thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
The ending tied up nicely with a lead in for further books with other characters. I’m very picky about hating cliff hangers and this is completely fine for me. It whet my appetite for more in this world, but didn’t leave me hanging and wishing I hadn’t read the book yet.
I would suggest this book for 15-16 year olds and up due to violence and themes like it. It is clean romantically, though we do have a few kisses in this one.
While I received an ARC version of this book, all thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
January 4, 2024
So I finished it!
I enjoyed it!
I was expecting it to end more dramatically and with some sort of fight or war but there was actually none of that at all
It was wrapped up pretty well with not much damage…for all except one
I really do love Gavril and Marcella but man I wanted to slap them both
I was so sick and tired of all the lies and deception they had between each other even though they both knew they loved the other
They were like “mmmm yes that is correct I love them but I must lie to them and will lose them, so let me lie to them even more so I can at least enjoy the fragile peace we have with each other”
Literally wanted to scream
But they finally were honest towards the end
I liked it
It kept me entertained
I enjoyed it!
I was expecting it to end more dramatically and with some sort of fight or war but there was actually none of that at all
It was wrapped up pretty well with not much damage…for all except one
I really do love Gavril and Marcella but man I wanted to slap them both
I was so sick and tired of all the lies and deception they had between each other even though they both knew they loved the other
They were like “mmmm yes that is correct I love them but I must lie to them and will lose them, so let me lie to them even more so I can at least enjoy the fragile peace we have with each other”
Literally wanted to scream
But they finally were honest towards the end
I liked it
It kept me entertained
September 1, 2023
The author has done a wonderful job of re-creating the Roman-Sarmatian wars in a fantasy world. I love what she has done to highlight the conflict in cultures as it applies to the two lonely lost souls who found each other by accident (like in "Island of Ghosts" by Gillian Bradshaw). The enemies-to-lovers in forced proximity slow burn romance sings and makes the triumph of the Pax Marcella ring. The characters are wonderfully deep and human and so real that it hurts when they hurt. I am looking forward to seeing how one of the darker characters in this novel will fare in the next one.
I received an ARC from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an ARC from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 3, 2023
This is such a good book! I love that the story followed Gavril and Marcella in a linear fashion without any parallel plots taking away from the story. The absolute connection between Marcella and Gavril no matter the cost made reading this such a pleasure. Prince Nikias had my nomination for villain of the year until the last few chapters of the book- so keep reading! I also enjoyed that Hypatia's husband Konstantin was introduced and played an important role in the story, and that Hypatia is reaping what she sowed! I did receive an ARC from the author and am so pleased with how this story was told!
September 23, 2024
A great sequel and conclusion to this duology. I love both of the books in the series! It's captivating with beautiful world-building, and well-developed characters, that have many layers. I love the tender, tumultuous love story, with enemies to lover. With the cinnamon roll hero, and the stubborn soldier heroine. The pain and suffering they both go through is heartbreaking but the way they put each others pieces together is beautiful. The plot is interesting and action-packed, and the side characters are amazing. I recommend a hundred times over and wish I could give it more than five stars.
April 14, 2025
Oh, the lies, deception, and hope! The angst between Marcella and Gavril was wrenching me in two, and the constant battle each had with their lies and questions and doubts. Each scene was so lifelike, and I've never really been able to experience that with a book.
"Mea Spes" "Deliciae"
"My hope" "Darling"
Gavril's unwavering affection for Marcella, even though she lied and betrayed him (they both had their fair share of lies) was so endearing and persistent, I swooned through most of their scenes!!
*side note* I learned a decent amount of Latin, and I was soooo excited I could translate and understand most of it!!! Brownie points!!!
"Mea Spes" "Deliciae"
"My hope" "Darling"
Gavril's unwavering affection for Marcella, even though she lied and betrayed him (they both had their fair share of lies) was so endearing and persistent, I swooned through most of their scenes!!
*side note* I learned a decent amount of Latin, and I was soooo excited I could translate and understand most of it!!! Brownie points!!!
November 21, 2025
Reading the second part of this duology (The Prince’s Captive and The Prince’s Mage) made me love the characters from the first book even more. I was not sure how the author could make me like Nikias enough to want to read a third book that follows his story, but by the end I actually can’t wait to start The Prince’s Vow.
One of the things I love is how human the characters are. They’re flawed and scared and imperfect, and that just makes them all the more lovable when they are determined, brave, and forgiving. The book wrestles with some big questions about how we relate to “the other” and how important it is to pursue peace even if the solution is imperfect.
One of the things I love is how human the characters are. They’re flawed and scared and imperfect, and that just makes them all the more lovable when they are determined, brave, and forgiving. The book wrestles with some big questions about how we relate to “the other” and how important it is to pursue peace even if the solution is imperfect.
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