Ascendant King

The Empty Throne Trilogy #3

by Kai Butler

His life is in my hands, but my heart is in his.

Miles Castillo has the one thing his mother never did: time. As he gathers new members to his pack and help in his war against House Bartlett, he can’t help but wish that Cade was more than a reluctant ally. But the ice prince has made his position clear and nothing Miles can do will change the history that divides them.

Still, as they both confront the echoes of their past, they must learn to work together and find something like a middle ground. With nothing to lose, Cade and Miles must make a choice that will save both of them.

Genres: Fantasy, Paranormal, M M Romance, Urban Fantasy, Magic, Shapeshifters, Romance

466 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 17, 2024

About the author

Kai has been reading and writing romance novels since she was a teenager. She lives in California with her two children and her very supportive husband.

She writes M/M romance with an emphasis on HEAs and all the feels. Her current series are San Amaro Investigations and the Imperial Space Regency Novels. She likes dashing heroes and couples with banter.

Reviews

[Ben Howard · Rating 4 out of 5]

A really good conclusion to the trilogy!

[Achim · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5
Have to collect my thoughts first before I write anything motley resembling a review but it was a great adventure and the character growth of both guys as well as the ups and downs of their relationship was something I enjoyed to watch. Only case for a slight niggle: didn't like his sisters reasoning, that kind of jealousy felt fabricated) and the overabundance of magic, the sentient spirits (except Basil, Basil is one-of-a-kind) ... it was a bit too much for me.

[Liya · Rating 4 out of 5]

~4.5
Non-stop action, the truth to uncover, the battle to win, and love that is stronger than hate. Miles and Cade found the way back to each other, and I couldn't be happier about it.
The ending felt rushed - there are some loose ends related to secondary characters' fate. It's not crucial, but my reason to round down

[Teresa · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Stars

This conclusion to the epic trilogy was just about everything I could hope for. It opens several months after the events of book 2 with a fight… and doesn’t slow down from there! It was a wild ride with action, magic, and danger. Some of it I could see coming, other things were a surprise, but it all made for a book I had trouble putting down. Although I never cried, there was a ton of emotion evoked and it made me grin in the end.

Cade and Miles fit so well together that it pained me while they were estranged, but I liked that their reconciliation wasn’t forced. There is a huge cast of characters and I was happy with everyone’s outcomes. I also really appreciated the last chapter and the full closure we got.

[yaishin · Rating 3 out of 5]

the fighting parts bored me to tears but hey Leon the Usurper is dead.

Rhys and Nia are one of my most favorite side characters.

[Mir · Rating 3 out of 5]

Skimmed the first 30% ish because I didn’t really care about the whole werewolf pack stuff and I didn’t really care to read about where our MCs relationships left off at the end of book two. I tried. I didn’t wanna.

Things did pick up after 30% or so for me and I read to the end, and mostly enjoyed myself. I still think that Miles is lacking emotion. I wanted him and Cade to end up together but I do also kinda think Cade deserved better. Like a slightly more emotional, kind, and let’s be real, less cocky, Miles.

There was no down time for Cade and Miles either, which leaves me feeling unsatisfied.

Some great side characters in the series. I feel like Isaac and Jay had a story that we were never told and I’m very curious.

[Angel · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the conclusion of the trilogy The Empty Throne. An amazing trilogy with such a worthy ending. This finale was full of action, suspense, healing, feelings, and a much deserved and earned HEA.
Miles and Cade's relationship throughout was such an emotional rollercoaster ride...from tentative alliance to enemies forced to work together to soulmates. But this is what happens when secrets are slowly discovered, the pain and anger. But Miles never gave up on Cade, and Cade no matter how much he tried could not push Miles out of his heart, leading to forgiveness and understanding, realizing their souls have joined and formed an unbreakable link; becoming each other's support and strength to face their enemy, protectors of those who have joined them, and face their inner demons and self-doubt. In this book we get to see the growth and healing of Miles and Cade, becoming what they were always meant to be.
And there is no stopping them, together their enemy did not stand a chance. With non-stop action and nail biting suspense, I could not put the book down. Never knowing what to expect next with each unexpected curve ball, revealed secret, and high emotions.
So worth riding this suspenseful, action packed, and emotional rollercoaster!!

[Devoted❤️Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

House of Love

Basil is the besssst, and Miles and Cade are minneee!!! I thought my heart wasn’t going to recover from the shape Contested Crown left it in and I have never been so happy to be wrong, and not just a little wrong either. Cade and Miles took my poor defeated heart and filled it with so much happiness, love and heat that I’ll never be cold or sad again.

“Cade was a language only I spoke.” I am so in love with the bond/connection/vibe these two have. It’s more than that but I don’t have the true words to describe it. I only know that Miles and Cade, from the way they look at each other to every touch, big or small, mean the world to me. From the beginning with Cade’s icy persona and Miles’s secrets, I’ve been invested in how these two were going to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles, and this book blew away all my expectations. I couldn’t put it down and if I’m being honest, I wish there was more because I’m not ready to leave them. It’s been an incredible and unforgettable adventure with heart pounding reveals, and Cade and Miles will forever be the undisputed rulers of my heart.

[Jordyn Reinhart · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had a fun time with this series overall. The main characters felt well developed and I enjoyed the ups and downs of their relationship. It all felt very natural and believable.

My only complaint with this final book in the series is that that I was a bit let down by how they resolved two major plot points: taking down ghost pack and taking down Leon. It just felt like these two antagonists were taken care of too quickly considering their significance to the two main characters. I found myself going “oh, that’s it?” both times. It felt like there was extra plot/villains added to make up for it which felt unnecessary to me.

In the end, I was happy Miles and Cade were able to find a way to heal and start a new life together. I think it’s easy to write a werewolf/magic-user story poorly so I appreciated how fun these characters were to follow.

[Guy Venturi · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is never easy being King or Emperor Wolf

But together a couple of lost kids caught up in the battles of greed and power influenced by magic and mystery managed to weave a struggling world of supernatural beings and amazing animals and plants into a place for everyone based on love and caring.

The influences of politics and the rest of the evil world were eventually overcome by the power of good and support of those who needed family and a pack to bond into the most powerful society to ever exist.

[Kat · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can’t believe it’s over! I miss them already!

[Claudia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yes!!! I was waiting so hard for this one and it was well worth it. LOVED IT
But it can only be read in order - this is no standalone

Miles and Cade together are awesome.
I loved how they developed - not only within the relationship but also both as a person on their own

The story was complex and intriguing and I loved the secondary characters as well. Nia is great, Rhys is awesome and some of the wolves are just great, especially Heather.

The last chapter was awesome!!! Thanks so much for that.
Often authors just show us how the MCs get together, but for me that is mostly frustrating ... I want to see at least one small peek into the future.

Nevertheless, there would be potential for one or two books for the time in-between and I really hope we get a bit more.

Now, I am waiting for the audiobook because this I want to listen to as well.

[Erica · Rating 3 out of 5]

This did not make as much sense as the author thought it did in their head.

Also, I think too many plot developments were saved for this last book in the trilogy, since this one felt over-stuffed with goings-on.

Great audio narration, and the series kept me sufficiently entertained for a few days, so I'm calling it a win.

[Kaylee · Rating 4 out of 5]

I truly enjoyed this. A lot. I thought it was going to be too much with them being "enemies" and all in the beginning but I liked the way it was handled. They still were pulled towards each other regardless of what they thought they should feel (obviously, mostly Cade). Especially with Cade's beginning coldness and just being terrified of werewolves, I though it might take things further and forever as far as getting anywhere in their storyline. More than appreciated that that was not the case and that they were more mature about things.

And they both went through a lot.

It was refreshing to see Cade let things go. I always hate the excuse or premise with someone wanting revenge/hating someone because of a past the person literally couldn't control (like Miles' parents killing Cade's).

I liked how things were explained for this. As far as the magic goes and Cade's father's part. It was very interesting. Leon's puppeteering was interesting as well. I really enjoyed this world, how magic and magical beings, and even how the ending went after the leylines were disbanded.

The part with Cade's parents: them being alive and being Leon's ideal world, 100% reminded me of the Supernatural episode where Dean gets his wish by a Jinn that their mother had never died. It had that vide through and through. And I wasn't upset about it by any means but it continued on that route also to get them out of that "illusion" and back to reality. Made me truly wonder if Butler is a Supernatural fan as well. (Obviously not the first to take that route as well so...)

It was also great to see the way that Miles let go and understood the need for others, for his pack. So long he went with just relying on himself, and then later, Cade; that it was so... Could feel the tension release on his part of being able to have others at his back.

I fuckin' love how Cade got an actual tattoo for Miles. I would also love to see their pack logo in real life. I want to know what it looks like cuz it sounds amazing (but also, how would ya even do such a thing when it literally moves on Cade's skin!). Especially because of the embarrassing aspect on Cade's part for entering a tattoo parlor (and I loved how that bit is addressed by mages adding them to "seem more powerful" but with Cade still going through with it...

Although, how everything resolved with Leon was rather anti-climatic, it was still very fitting. It led up to that point well and continued on in that direction and I loved how it continued. Was so fitting how Rhys was "making" it their day and how Cade and Miles needed to stop pawing at each other to ensure their outfits/hairstyles were how they wanted for their wedding.

I also appreciated how it took years for Cade and Miles to actually marry. Again, they went through a lot of shit; not only that but they had to deal with a lot of shit after with all the disruption of the "traditional" way of doing things.

I definitely would've liked more info about how things had progressed for packs (alluded for the country with Miles being Emperor Wolf) and how the different mage groups continued. But I thought it was overall a very fitting ending and I would not change it. It was rather a loose end with Miles' sister, though. Feel like since she was the reason why the other siblings were killed, there would be more to do with that in the future while she lived...

As always Greg Tremblay did a fantastic job narrating. (And, since it was narration, I have no quotes).

At first this series was on shaky grounds, but Kai Butler pulls it off once again!

[KJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an almost-100% brilliant ending to an awesome series! I’m thrilled with how Kai tackled the common relationship plot trope I was worried about in the previous book and the reconciliation/resolution of all the conflicts felt so organic and realistic. While I wasn’t completely satisfied with how the final villain was officially conquered, the overall book was a beautiful addition and ending to a brilliant series.



Would I go back in time and still read this book, knowing what I know now?
Yes yes yes! So much yes!


See below for the four criteria I use to decide whether and when to read a book


CHARACTERS: The push/pull of the powerplay between Miles and Cade is one of the best I’ve ever seen written. I loved that for the both of them, it’s a theme that is mixed with freedom/captivity and teased around like the most delicious swallow of fine wine. It’s an issue that began in book one and is finally resolved for both of them by the end of this book with such beauty. A true work of art. They are so wonderfully complex and come into their own, while at the same time coming together to truly work as a unit and become a couple. I truly loved it. I loved that the author didn’t allow any emotional issues to just be swept under the rug: they reacted in ways that made sense, made them real. Through Miles and Cade, we are able to feel all of the emotions rather than watch things get neatly wrapped up too soon and too illogically. That truly doesn’t happen in this series.


PLOT: Despite their personal issues, Miles and Cade never stop working together to complete their overall mission of saving the supernatural world they inhabit. I was so grateful for this. I also loved that 50% of the way through, we had such a pivotal moment that felt as though it could have been the final climactic events. I’ll admit, at one point I couldn’t believe that the series would possibly end because there was still so much coming to light and so much more happening. The plot is fast-paced and constant, so many different conflicts coming at us all at once which kept me on my toes and absolutely glued to the page until the very end.


EMOTIONAL INTENSITY: There is no good/bad here. Sometimes I just want a low-investment entertainment read whereas other times a high-stakes 'I need a therapist to recover' is what I need.

5 out of 5/high. No way for this book to be anything less. A true masterpiece of high intensity.



CATHARTIC FULFILLMENT: Is the emotional journey worth it? Do I finish this book feeling that I've crested the wave of the climactic moment and everything has been settled, leaving me settled and fulfilled?

90%. As mentioned, the final climactic event was resolved too quickly and easily for my taste, with very little sacrifice from Miles or Cade, in my opinion. Additionally, there is still one mystery that—perhaps I simply missed it— but never was fully answered for me. That being said, everything wrapped up with a brilliant HEA that had me sighing when I finished this morning. Highly, highly recommend this series. I’m going to see about becoming an ARC reader for this author. I’m in love!

[Declan Mc · Rating 5 out of 5]

Character- 4.5/5
Plot-4.5/5
Pacing-4/5
Entertainment- 5/5
Rating- 4.5/5

Where the hell did the quality of this book come from? For me the first two entries in this series were somewhat forgettable and so I didn't immediately return to it upon finishing the 2nd book. I am so glad that I finally did, this book is excellent. It strikes the right balance between nail biting plot and touching, thought provoking character moments and development. Kai Butler certainly brought her A game to this one.

We start off with our two main guys still contending with the revelation and unveiling of Mile's family lineage, whilst Cade grapples with all the conflicting emotions that he has towards Miles as a result. The relationship between these two is tested in a way that feels authentic and true to their characters. Cade is still pragmatic about his goals, and is setting aside his differences with Miles reluctantly to save his house. But there no denying the chemistry between the two, that simply does not go away. The journey they go through to come to terms with their pasts as individuals and as a couple, is well written and thoroughly enjoyable to read.

The plot is bonkers and the world building is expanded upon in really interesting ways. Essentially the goal is to establish Miles properly as the Emperor wolf (ridiculously fun title) and overthrow Liam who is corrupting the worlds magic and destroying the Bartlett house. There are plenty of twists and turns in these goals and we get a lot of really jaw dropping reveals, that adds to the mystery and depth of the series that has been hinted at so far. We get so many great interactions and character moments from everyone involved, and Kai Butler just manages to smash every element out of the park.

I suppose you could complain that the plot gets a little convoluted and that Liam is a little too one-dimensional, but I'm so invested I really don't care about that.

Yeah this books great, kai Butler really brought it to the table this time, and I'd almost say read through the entire series so you can really enjoy what this last book has to offer, happy reading!

[Kristine · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 Stars ⭐️

This is the third and final book in this trilogy and we start off with a bang after the ending of the last book. In that book, Cade finally discovers who Miles really is - and who his mother was - and that completely changes their relationship. The timing of this could not be worse because they are also at the pinnacle of everything they have been preparing for over the course of the last 2 books. Miles has finally started to build his pack, and they are so, so close to going after Leon. Unfortunately, Cade does not take the new information well.

We get to see many of the characters we have met in this trilogy come back for the final showdown. The climax itself - and the final showdown with Leon - was a bit all over the place. Honestly, this was not my favorite of the three books, but I ended up rating it for the series as a whole, which I did like.

It was a joy getting to watch Miles and Cade as they slowly began to learn to trust each other. Both of them had to learn to deal with the issues that had followed them throughout their lives - issues that impacted their relationships. They both lost their parents at an early age and through awful circumstances. Because of this, they had major trust issues. Not to mention that both of them had not yet found a place or a home where they felt secure. Cade was the outcast in his "House" and Miles was a wolf without a pack. Yep, it was a journey.

The world building was original with the creation of the Mage Houses and the whole "Consort" relationship between the Mages and the Wolves. Where it really took off was with the character development and growth between our MMC's. We watched them grow by leaps and bounds as they learned to trust and take risks.

So, all in all, I really enjoyed this trilogy and also enjoyed the narration done by Greg Tremblay. He has been a pretty consistent performer and has not disappointed me yet.

[Ariana (mostly offline) · Rating 4 out of 5]

That was quite the finale in this captivating trilogy!

We were left with a cliffhanger at the end of book 2 and I couldn’t wait to see how it would be resolved.
And resolved it was! and in a very good way.

Miles is just a stellar, inherently good guy and, while it hurts, he understands why Cade doesn’t want to have anything to do with him after what comes to light in book 2. He is extremely generous with his love and faith and proves again and again how genuine his feelings are. Something that Cade cant help seeing and appreciating.
Miles and Cade’s relationship recovers very gradually and painfully, with Cade slowly letting Miles in again. Fabulous UST and relationship development here!

As for the highly action-packed plot (was it too much?):
There are probably too many fights and too many battles going on for me. I also got lost in the ‘alternative reality’ scenes a few times with the plot spinning almost out of control and ending up marginally confusing. But that could be, of course, on me.
But it was a teeny difficult to make sense of things in occasion. It seemed as if the author’s boundless imagination sometimes simply takes over and throws too much at the reader.
That also goes for the number of characters appearing. It’d been a while since book 2 and I was struggling to keep track with who is who.

While I loved Basil - what a fabulous 'character'! - I missed a resolution for some characters (like Miles’s sister, and why the heck Declan was appearing all over the place), but ...

... saying that, I thoroughly enjoyed the book and the series as a whole.
This is an epic saga with likeable characters, but I do wish this fabulous author would streamline her writing a little bit.

[Shirahase · Rating 4 out of 5]

The much-awaited conclusion to the Empty Throne trilogy. Overall I did like it, but it missed the mark for me on a few levels. First off, at some point Miles and Cade are jokingly comparing their lives to a soap opera and that's actually a pretty accurate assessment, sometimes it did feel a lot like that. Major respect for the author for unapologetically committing to that vibe and leaning into it, but quite frankly, it was a bit much for me at times. Also, while I got fairly invested in the mystery, the author completely lost me in a few rather psychedelic trips to the alternate reality, though that's on me, not the book.

Another thing I didn't particularly like was building up tension that ultimately went… well, not nowhere, but the way it was resolved felt a bit unsatisfactory to me. Like when you're expecting a 'kaboom!' and all you get is a little 'pop'. That was the case with the final confrontation with the main villain, but also the conflict between Cade and Miles. As much as I prefer those two really together with no fatal secrets between them, I'm not entirely convinced about how they got to that point from the major blow-up at the end of Contested Crown.

That being said, the world-building is impeccable as usual and the characters have a lot of depth to them. While Rhys will always be my favorite and I would have liked them to provide a running commentary on everything, both Cade and Miles have come a long way since their first meeting and it was a pleasure to watch them grow and find their way to each other.

All in all, a good read for those who enjoy their urban fantasy on the darker side.

ARC provided by the author, I have chosen to read and write an honest review.

[Tiago Kietzmann · Rating 3 out of 5]

When I got the first book, I became super excited, expecting a great series. The second wasn't that good, and this one kept the descending curve. In the end, it's pretty disappointing. It could have been a fantastic series, but it didn't deliver. It's not awful, but far from great or its potential.

Miles and Cade begin this book as hateful allies; they decided to join forces against Leon despite their differences. But guys, this alone is so petty. Cade's anger and resentfulness against Miles is so weak that it either makes him seem idiotic or feels like a forced plot point by the author. Cade forgives his cousin who directly betrayed him, he forgives almost every mage from his house who sentenced him to death, but Miles, just for being the son of the person who supposedly killed his parents, he doesn't forgive? And Miles has never said, "Hey, calm down, I wasn't even there, you know, you can hate my parents, but me? I saved your life many times, remember?". Come on...

Apart from that, it's a fun book, and I had some good times reading it. There's a lot of magic, the characters are interesting, the mystery behind the poison in the ley lines is intriguing, and the book has a good pace. I like focused narrators, even if the focus is on Miles, who is a weak character.

Well, I think it's a missed opportunity. The plot and worldbuilding are interesting, but the story and characters are too fragile. If you, like me, didn't enjoy the second book, maybe you could spare your time and look for something else to read. It's not bad, but I'm not sure if it's really worth your time.

[Melanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kai Butler’s finale story, Ascendant King is everything I had hoped for.

Rating: 5🌈

Kai Butler’s finale story, Ascendant King is everything I had hoped for. And it makes me so sad this series is over while leaving me completely satisfied with the ending and the way the author has tied up the storylines.

Butler’s trilogy and fabulous romantic arc ties up with thrilling storytelling, incredible character growth, and imaginative narrative visuals that continue to make me think.

What a journey this has been for Miles and Cade as one becomes Emperor of Werewolves and the other the King of his House, and so much more. This tale has so many complex elements and intricate magical detailing to the components that Butler’s creating and then slowly revealing. It’s breathtaking in conception and execution but as the reader is so focused on the action and character-driven dramatic scenes, it’s elements that are apparent afterwards when you think about the story and events.

To say that I think the universe Butler created here can easily be extended beyond to further stories is one driven by love of the characters and need for more tales to see what happens next.

That unique pack, those bonded mates, that future that still holds so many questions. Yes, more please. Even the page length wasn’t nearly enough.

Now to wait for whatever comes next from this amazing author.

Highly recommended!

The Empty Throne Trilogy:
- [x] Exiled Heir #1
- [x] Contested Crown #2
- [x] Ascendant King #3

[avid reader 1 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Read through Kindle Unlimited.

***Possible spoilers***
Ascendant King is a great conclusion for the Empty Throne Trilogy. I did not have time to reread the first two books in this series, so I was on my back foot with some of the characters and circumstances this time around. While some of the backstory came back to me as I read, I recommend a complete reread for clarity.
That being said, I enjoyed being with Cade and Miles again. These two have come a long way since the first book and I loved seeing how they’ve grown. There is still angst between them, but not so much as to take over the main storyline. I am happy and satisfied with their HEA.
Along with destroying that which was decimating their people and their world, this last journey to reclaiming what is theirs was a roller coaster ride of action amidst several psychotropic-type intervals. The first time I found myself off kilter, wondering if I had dozed off and was dreaming, I shook off and kept reading. The second time I thought I was maybe having a stroke. The other times, I just ignored those feelings and powered through. I would love to see this series, and this book in particular, as a movie or tv series. I believe it would translate well onto the screen.
I am glad the guys won the day, but I hate to see the series end.
I look forward to more from this author.

[SNik · Rating 5 out of 5]

Third in series (The Empty Throne Trilogy), must be read in order. Paranormal urban fantasy. Semi-established couple. Close proximity. Slow burn. Found family. Single POV.

With the truth of their shared horrible past finally known, Cade and Miles have agreed to work together as Miles pursues uniting the wolf packs and to return Cade to his place as the rightful king of House Bartlett. Miles cherishes every moment with his mate, accepting Cade’s hate as well as his unwavering support as he navigates the legacy his mother left him to become the Emperor Wolf. This book continues the nonstop action and constant pressure for Cade and Miles to succeed, with more wolves and mages in danger, the stakes have become higher for the supernatural community.

I enjoyed the personal growth of both Cade and Miles, they are reluctant leaders but try desperately to do the right thing, as well as their eventual acceptance of their unbreakable bond. Each scene when Cade and Miles are on page together alone with the yearning and the swoon were my favorite parts, and this series has been super entertaining and I’m sad that it’s over. 4.5 rounded up

[Stephanie Oldeck · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a fantastic ending to the Empty Throne Trilogy. It was nonstop action, banter, and pining. Miles and Cade are forced together even after the fallout from Contested Crown, and it's clear that Cade's anger makes it difficult. But at the same time, there's never a second where Cade doesn't respect Miles and his role as alpha. I loved so much how Cade always deferred to Miles in front of the pack, even if they disagreed in private. It was such a testament to Cade's true feelings, even though on the outside he was angry. I just love their relationship, even though they have to overcome their pasts in order to move forward. Plus, the slow burn hurt so good. The little touches between them, especially when they do it without thought, was the best. I also love the magic in this series. It's so, so unique, and it was cool to see the consequences of having more than you can handle. I wish we found out where Miles' sister went, and I still kind of wish Miles had become Cade's consort after all, but overall this was a fantastic book, and a great ending to the trilogy. I wish there would be more books in this world! 5/5 stars!

[Emily · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm disappointed in this, and I'm not sure if it's the book's fault or mine. I devoured the first two books in this trilogy, lamenting: I went and did the silliest thing a knucklehead reader like me could have: got sucked into a trilogy at the exact time the final book was set to come out.

And then I proceeded to not read that final book for, like... 7 months. So what started out with mediocre world-building with mages, werewolves, and other fantasy creatures, all of which I enjoyed despite that, just turned into a world/storyline I found hard to remember anything and/or care about.

I skimmed the majority of this book, especially all the turf war/pack drama that read like a mafia wannabe (except the mafia is just rival wolf packs lol). The highlight of this was Miles and Cade, their character growth and general storyline, but seeing as that took up so little of the book, it was just a hard read. I'm giving this a a 2.5, rounded up to 3. Maybe had I read this right after the second one, I would've felt different.

I guess we'll never know.

[Cabert A · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very mild spoilers for things that are actually mostly clear by the end of the end book....


What I liked: I loved how all the threads wrapped up nicely on this book. It has some of the best last chapters or epilogues. This book, like the previous ones, was chock full of plot. So much happened that it could have been a trilogy on its own if anyone else was writing it. By the end when Miles and Cade truly committed to each other, I was so glad to see that payoff.

What I didn't like: I found Cade's behavior in the first half really hard to take. And I didn't really appreciate Miles' easy forgiveness. I personally think it's hard to love someone who acts like this. I thought Miles declaring himself Emperor Wolf was extremely premature and politically silly. Like other reviewers, I thought a lot of energy left the plot about midway, and even though there were a lot of threads to wrap up, it was pretty easy to figure out that the good guys were going to win, so there just wasn't much pressure.

In summary: I enjoyed this trilogy and would easily recommend it. I listened to it on audio, and the narration was fantastic and probably enhanced the books.

[Aethena Drake · Rating 3 out of 5]

Greg Tremblay's narration was entertaining. The story had good moments. I really enjoyed Kai Butler's San Amaro series, and I expected a similar experience with this story. The first book was engaging, but the second book and this book missed the mark for me. I felt that this series had more well developed personalities for the characters, but the plot had a few logic fallacies. A huge portion of the plot revolves around the idea that Cade somehow blames Miles for the death of Cades parents. Yes, Miles' parents were supposedly responsible for the death of Cade's parents, but Miles had absolutely nothing to do with those deaths. Another issue that bothered me was that the author assumes that not saying something is the same as a lie. By definition (legal or dictionary), this is not the case. Miles did not lie.

I was entertained, and I will keep reading Kai Butler stories, but this series didn't have the same appeal as the San Amaro series for me.

[She Who Shall Remain Nameless · Rating 5 out of 5]

Truly epic!!!

Yes, when I state that this book was epic, I also meant it was long lol! But just so good! I have honestly done nothing else today other than a quick workout but read this book. The storyline moves along at a great pace with no real slow parts that could drag. I am glad that I remembered to do a quick reread of the previous books over the weekend to refresh my memory before diving back into this world. There is action, romance, and humor (the part where they are comparing their lives to soap operas is absolutely hilarious!) woven into this story. While I’m a bit bummed that the series is now over, I’m excited because that means that we the readers can look forward to whatever spectacularly creative new world this author will come up with for us next. Overall, two enthusiastic thumbs up!

[Tünde Kasza tóth · Rating 3 out of 5]

I don't think there are a lot of epic urban fantasy books out there. Or maybe I was looking at them the wrong way. This could have been something great.

But then there was the pining and the touches and the pining and the looks and the PINING. Just kill me now. And in the end I'm not sure that Cade couldn't have just turned into a woman by chaning his pronoun. Was there anything that could have only happened with a gay couple? Is this really mm? Not sure.

Not to mention the arrogance of Miles after deciding that he will be emperor wolf just reached unbearable levels. Also his mind reading.

The action and the plot was great. And I understand that I was reading a romance, but if it hadn't been the main focus of the book, this could have been a truly epic epic fantasy.

I'm a bit sad that the series didn't live up to its potential. I'm a bit relieved that I'm done with it. By the end I really had enough of the romance and the feelings. But I also think I didn't waste my time. So if you are into the cheesy romantic bullshit with a lot of side action, you will love this.

[Dan Haller · Rating 5 out of 5]

A KING AND AN EMPEROR FIGHT THEIR HEA

I didn't post a review on the first two books ,but this climax covers them all. Butler has woven us another wonder world. Intrigue, betrayal, mysterious deaths, all move ,rapidly, to a success conclusion.
Starting with an unusual rescue from a grimy dive (1st book) to a triumphant end. It's really hard to put down even between books.
A wolf and a mage bound by an unusual practice, (thanks again to Butler's creativity) fight for a place in the world to save it.

Just get all three. I'm going back an adding them to my permanent library. Oh yes, I'll be reading these again.