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Drowned Empire #0.5
Solstice of the Drowned Empire
Lord Rhyan Hart, Heir Apparent to the Arkasva, High Lord of Glemaria, Imperator to the North hates everything about his title. Its length, its pretentiousness, and the fact that it connects him directly to his father, the sadistic violent man he hates more than anyone in Lumeria. The last thing Rhyan wants to do is spend the summer before his Revelation Ceremony traveling across the Empire with him for a state visit.
Rhyan's resigned to his season of misery until he reaches Bamaria and sees Lady Lyriana Batavia. Rhyan's sure she doesn't remember their meeting a decade ago, but an act of kindness from her stayed with him through the years. Though he longs to know the woman she's become, he must keep his distance to protect her from his father's sinister political maneuvers.
But when the undeniable attraction between them garners the attention of two dangerous Imperators competing for power, Rhyan must play the villain to keep him and Lyriana from becoming pawns.
Jules, Lyriana's cousin and best friend, is the only one to see through his facade, becoming his unlikely ally as they navigate instability in the Bamarian Court.
Though Lyriana is suspicious of his true motives, Rhyan's plan has nearly succeeded—until the night of the solstice, when hidden enemies emerge, posing an even greater threat.
To save the girl he loves, Rhyan must play the hero—but to do so involves risking not only his heart, but exposing his most dangerous secret.
Rhyan's resigned to his season of misery until he reaches Bamaria and sees Lady Lyriana Batavia. Rhyan's sure she doesn't remember their meeting a decade ago, but an act of kindness from her stayed with him through the years. Though he longs to know the woman she's become, he must keep his distance to protect her from his father's sinister political maneuvers.
But when the undeniable attraction between them garners the attention of two dangerous Imperators competing for power, Rhyan must play the villain to keep him and Lyriana from becoming pawns.
Jules, Lyriana's cousin and best friend, is the only one to see through his facade, becoming his unlikely ally as they navigate instability in the Bamarian Court.
Though Lyriana is suspicious of his true motives, Rhyan's plan has nearly succeeded—until the night of the solstice, when hidden enemies emerge, posing an even greater threat.
To save the girl he loves, Rhyan must play the hero—but to do so involves risking not only his heart, but exposing his most dangerous secret.
6 pages, Audible Audio
First published September 10, 2022
297 people are currently reading
4924 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 401 reviews
January 12, 2025
4.38!
This novella was everything. So raw and filled with emotions, Frankie nailed the writing the ways he expressed Ryan's grief was so heart wrenching.
I love Rhyan to my core and this book gives us a pretty good understanding of his character and what he has been through I absolutely hate his father for what he did to rhyan and he is officially in my 'top 10 characters that I ahte' we also got to see the range of Rhyans powers which was again amazing.
Ryan wasn't the only character that we got to know about there was another character Jules she has only been mentioned in the books and anything I saw about her could be considered as a spoiler so it'll just stip and say it was nice getting to know Jules it really shapes the story of the final book.
The romance was 🙏😔🤌🥵 not smutty by any mean but that slow burn and that kiss. That was everything.
Frankie crafted a masterpiece!
Can't wait to read son and warrior of the drowned empire!!
This novella was everything. So raw and filled with emotions, Frankie nailed the writing the ways he expressed Ryan's grief was so heart wrenching.
I love Rhyan to my core and this book gives us a pretty good understanding of his character and what he has been through I absolutely hate his father for what he did to rhyan and he is officially in my 'top 10 characters that I ahte' we also got to see the range of Rhyans powers which was again amazing.
Ryan wasn't the only character that we got to know about there was another character Jules she has only been mentioned in the books and anything I saw about her could be considered as a spoiler so it'll just stip and say it was nice getting to know Jules it really shapes the story of the final book.
The romance was 🙏😔🤌🥵 not smutty by any mean but that slow burn and that kiss. That was everything.
Frankie crafted a masterpiece!
Can't wait to read son and warrior of the drowned empire!!
July 2, 2023
— 5 stars ☆
i swear, watching Rhyan be all stalkerishly protective of Lyriana was the basic plot of this book 😌🤌
and i ate it all up.
the way he absolutely lit up for her 😭😭😭 she was his light and he literally did EVERYTHING to keep her safe.
❤️🥺💞❤️🥺💞❤️🥺💞❤️🥺💞❤️🥺💞❤️🥺💞❤️🥺💞❤️🥺💞❤️🥺💞❤️🥺💞
i just seriously want them to get their happily ever after, because they more than deserve it. they deserve each other and everything good forever. Rhyan just broke both their hearts to keep Lyr safe (brb going to cry rn over that).
and seeing Jules and Rhyan develop something like a friendship? having Jules' approval for their relationship?? 😭💘 it was everything. one of my fav novellas ever.
i swear, watching Rhyan be all stalkerishly protective of Lyriana was the basic plot of this book 😌🤌
and i ate it all up.
Our eyes met, and fuck I was hers. I'd been hers since the first moment I saw her.
the way he absolutely lit up for her 😭😭😭 she was his light and he literally did EVERYTHING to keep her safe.
“By all the Gods, in this moment, you have complete and total possession of me.”
❤️🥺💞❤️🥺💞❤️🥺💞❤️🥺💞❤️🥺💞❤️🥺💞❤️🥺💞❤️🥺💞❤️🥺💞❤️🥺💞
There was a small sparkle in her eyes, one that seemed to light up her entire face. It was like she was full of light, and she was the only reason I could see anything at all in this room.
i just seriously want them to get their happily ever after, because they more than deserve it. they deserve each other and everything good forever. Rhyan just broke both their hearts to keep Lyr safe (brb going to cry rn over that).
For him, she’s brighter than the brightest star in Heaven.
It was hard to remember to look elsewhere, to remember where I was, to see anything other than her— her eyes, her smile, her hair—her… just her. Because everything else before me dimmed in comparison.
and seeing Jules and Rhyan develop something like a friendship? having Jules' approval for their relationship?? 😭💘 it was everything. one of my fav novellas ever.
August 25, 2022
This was not on my publishing schedule or planned, but so many of you wanted Rhyan's POV and wanted more of this specific event, so here we are. And I'm grateful. I really enjoyed the opportunity to spend so much more time in Rhyan's head and I have all of my readers to thank for that. This really was a passion project for me and I sincerely hope you enjoy.
February 12, 2023
There was a small sparkle in her eyes, one that seemed to light up her entire face. It was like she was full of light, and she was the only reason I could see anything at all in this room.
And...Fuck. I was hers.
Oh, Rhyan, you beautiful, adorable creature.
I didn't think I could love you more than I already do, but apparently I keep underestimating my own sappiness.
Solstice is definitely a great addition to the series.
I'd go as far as to say I loved this more than Daughter and Guardian, but I wouldn't fully trust my judgement if I were you, because I'm infinitely biased for adoring this novella and you can blame Rhyan's character for it.
And Jules, too, OMG???? I'm so glad she was part of this because I've always wanted to know more about Lyr's cousin, and was pleasantly surprised to find out she played such a big role in this story, and as was as much of a good friend to Rhyan as she was to Lyr.
I wish we got to see more of his friends, but I was very pleased to read about uncle Sean, about Rhyan's past and his deepest thoughts and fears. Being inside his head made me crave a double pov so bad I don't know what I'll do once Lady comes out and I'll have to spend all the time in Lyr's mind.
Not that there's anything bad about it, but...it's not the same thing, and if you know Rhyan, you'll understand.
Most importantly, though, I'm impossibly shocked by what I learned about Rhyan's relationship with his father. I mean, I knew it was bad and the man was a total jerk but we're talking about a real fucking monster, here, and my heart broke for everything poor Lord Sweetheart had to endure or all the things he had to give up to to survive and to protect those he cared about.
I think Rhyan's dad is competing for Asshole of the Century. It's a tie between him and the Regent from Captive Prince, and I'm honestly rooting for both. To end up rotting. In the darkest and smelliest limbo. In hell. Forever.
The romance in this was such a treat😩
I don't think I'll ever recover from reading about the moment Rhyan first fell for Lyr and inevitably sank in love with her from that moment.
Their first kiss and their dance were simply special. I love that we got to see both these moments from a pov that's not Lyr's.
And I obviously can't wait to read Son of the Drowned Empire.
November 12, 2023
This series has me in a chokehold. Although this Novella is listed as 0.5, I would recommend reading it 3rd in the series as it contains major spoilers for books 1&2. We follow Rhyan’s pov and it was so good and so heartbreaking at times. The Imperators are the most vile and evil men. Hate is not a strong enough word. This world is brutal and Frankie does not shy away from making her readers feel all the things for these characters. I loved seeing more of Jules (ifykyk). Seeing Lyr through Rhyan’s eyes was such a treat. I love Lyr just as much as I love Rhyan. This novella did not disappoint. It was also nice to see what some sneaky side characters were up to, and to see some plotting... Meecurial, I see you!!! I cannot wait for Lady of the Empire. More secrets are going to be revealed and rock our characters world for sure! Thank you to the author for sending me an arc ❤️
“My oath, always”
“My oath, always”
October 15, 2022
this prequel novella isnt exactly necessary overall, but it is wholly enjoyable.
anyone who has read any of the books in this series will know that rhyan is PERFECT, so its no surprise that many readers begged for the solstice scene. and we love an author that listens and delivers.
so very lovely to read the scene that is brought up so often in the series, and also learn a little more about rhyan in the process.
↠ 4 stars
anyone who has read any of the books in this series will know that rhyan is PERFECT, so its no surprise that many readers begged for the solstice scene. and we love an author that listens and delivers.
so very lovely to read the scene that is brought up so often in the series, and also learn a little more about rhyan in the process.
↠ 4 stars
March 10, 2025
MY HEART IS RIPPING
August 30, 2022
Solstice of the Drowned Empire
"I've seen you. I've seen the way you look at her. The way your eyes follow her every move. The lust you can barely contain."
Rating: As a certain space hero once said.. TO INFINITY AND BEYOND
Spice:3-4/5, I am literally about to combust
Emotionally Breaking Down?: Oh.. you know.. just screaming, crying, throwing up right now. Ugly tears. YES IM BREAKING TF DOWN RIGHT NOW. IT WAS TOO BEAUTIFUL! Why do I start books after 11 pm? Its 2am right now, is this a new record for me? It was so good that time warped around me. I NEED MORE. *cue ugly tears*
So first off I need to thank the author of this book. Frankies fans asked for a Rhyan POV and not only did she deliver but she delivered at lightning speed. If I were ever to recommend an author to anyone at all it would be this one right here. First thing. Always. This series is an absolute work of art with the greatest, nicest, and kindest creator that ever existed.
"I outrank you, little lord. And I always will, as you so reminded me." -Lord Rhyan Hart
It is always the little things and the banter between Tristan and Rhyan will forever give me life. For instance in most books when two guys are fighting over a girl its always so cringey. But here? Nah. Rhyan is so witty with his comebacks that I'm sweating from the hotness.
It is absolutely amazing to have a peak inside his head while he's arguing with Tristan, conversing with Lyr, or fighting with his father. We are finally seeing a whole different side of him that we couldn't see through Lyrs eyes and so much more makes sense. We see him as a kid just trying to get through life to coming into himself and finally realizing his strengths. Just seeing him stand his ground had me in tears, I was so proud! Lyr took the back burner here for me because I was absolutely obsessed with Rhyan but every time they had their moments together I was kicking and giggling like a little girl. This is by far the best romance to ever exist. AND I KNOW ITS GOING TO ONLY GET BETTER OMG!
"I’m also a hopeless romantic. And I'm rooting for you two." -Lady Julianna aka Jules
An honorable but very significant mention here would be our lovely Lady Julianna. I feel like she was all of us in this novella. I am so thankful to the bigger part she plays in here. I was dying to see more of the girl Lyr holds so close to her heart. I feel like I can't say much about her right now without spoiling anything but I sincerely wonder if she will have some bigger role to play later on? I really love her so much and even more so after this novella!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
"I've seen you. I've seen the way you look at her. The way your eyes follow her every move. The lust you can barely contain."
Rating: As a certain space hero once said.. TO INFINITY AND BEYOND
Spice:3-4/5, I am literally about to combust
Emotionally Breaking Down?: Oh.. you know.. just screaming, crying, throwing up right now. Ugly tears. YES IM BREAKING TF DOWN RIGHT NOW. IT WAS TOO BEAUTIFUL! Why do I start books after 11 pm? Its 2am right now, is this a new record for me? It was so good that time warped around me. I NEED MORE. *cue ugly tears*
So first off I need to thank the author of this book. Frankies fans asked for a Rhyan POV and not only did she deliver but she delivered at lightning speed. If I were ever to recommend an author to anyone at all it would be this one right here. First thing. Always. This series is an absolute work of art with the greatest, nicest, and kindest creator that ever existed.
"I outrank you, little lord. And I always will, as you so reminded me." -Lord Rhyan Hart
It is always the little things and the banter between Tristan and Rhyan will forever give me life. For instance in most books when two guys are fighting over a girl its always so cringey. But here? Nah. Rhyan is so witty with his comebacks that I'm sweating from the hotness.
It is absolutely amazing to have a peak inside his head while he's arguing with Tristan, conversing with Lyr, or fighting with his father. We are finally seeing a whole different side of him that we couldn't see through Lyrs eyes and so much more makes sense. We see him as a kid just trying to get through life to coming into himself and finally realizing his strengths. Just seeing him stand his ground had me in tears, I was so proud! Lyr took the back burner here for me because I was absolutely obsessed with Rhyan but every time they had their moments together I was kicking and giggling like a little girl. This is by far the best romance to ever exist. AND I KNOW ITS GOING TO ONLY GET BETTER OMG!
"I’m also a hopeless romantic. And I'm rooting for you two." -Lady Julianna aka Jules
An honorable but very significant mention here would be our lovely Lady Julianna. I feel like she was all of us in this novella. I am so thankful to the bigger part she plays in here. I was dying to see more of the girl Lyr holds so close to her heart. I feel like I can't say much about her right now without spoiling anything but I sincerely wonder if she will have some bigger role to play later on? I really love her so much and even more so after this novella!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 5, 2024
I seem to remember reading an authors note somewhere encouraging this novella be read after book2 despite this technically being book 0.5.
I can see why, this novella depicts a time period before the events of the first two books but referenced in the "main" series.
This novella is from Rhyan's PoV.
There is not really much world building/character exposition to help the reader if they start with this book as I'm guessing it is assumed the other two have been read - probably best to read this series in publication order - in that case as it appears the next novella (book1.5) was published after book3. So I'm going to follow my own advice on this front despite how tempting the sneaky peek we got at the first chapter of that second novella is at the end of this 🙃
Which leads me in to my age old gripe about novellas/shorter books that suddenly stop at 85% mark 🤯
Lads [author/publisher whoever is making this decision] please *desist* with this practice! It is so disheartening to think you've more of an already short story left and suddenly with +/-20% left to go it's over ! No matter how adorable an intro or story may follow in bonus material - it cannot totally soothe the disappointment 🤷♀️
On to the actual novella hopefully without ruining anything, first, #Justice4Jules IYKYK - how I'd love to see more of her 🥺
But mostly 🤬 the mf'ing Imperators, both of them can get in the sea!
What absolute vile 🍆
I'm ready for the whole system to come crumbling down & 🔥
Again all Mercurial + any Afeya apparitions are appreciated. Some enjoyable breadcrumbs and hints sprinkled about 🤗
Quick spoiler'y query that I can't check as I don't own a copy of book1, but I realise I am probably being nit'picky as this novella was most likely written after book1 was published but it's a potential continuity error that will niggle at me - again I reiterate tho that I don't own a copy of either book so can't reread the scenes to double check my memory which admittedly can be pretty poor 😅
Anyways all this to say that this novella has been my fav of the instalments of this series so far despite it possibly being a little instalove'y and it has convinced me to read on - not sure what this says about my enjoyment of Lyr's PoV storytelling tho 🫣
Hopefully each instalment continues to get stronger as we get more invested in the story...book2 sure left off in an interesting place so bring on book3 😈
3.5-3.75*
I can see why, this novella depicts a time period before the events of the first two books but referenced in the "main" series.
This novella is from Rhyan's PoV.
There is not really much world building/character exposition to help the reader if they start with this book as I'm guessing it is assumed the other two have been read - probably best to read this series in publication order - in that case as it appears the next novella (book1.5) was published after book3. So I'm going to follow my own advice on this front despite how tempting the sneaky peek we got at the first chapter of that second novella is at the end of this 🙃
Which leads me in to my age old gripe about novellas/shorter books that suddenly stop at 85% mark 🤯
Lads [author/publisher whoever is making this decision] please *desist* with this practice! It is so disheartening to think you've more of an already short story left and suddenly with +/-20% left to go it's over ! No matter how adorable an intro or story may follow in bonus material - it cannot totally soothe the disappointment 🤷♀️
On to the actual novella hopefully without ruining anything, first, #Justice4Jules IYKYK - how I'd love to see more of her 🥺
But mostly 🤬 the mf'ing Imperators, both of them can get in the sea!
What absolute vile 🍆
I'm ready for the whole system to come crumbling down & 🔥
Again all Mercurial + any Afeya apparitions are appreciated. Some enjoyable breadcrumbs and hints sprinkled about 🤗
Quick spoiler'y query that I can't check as I don't own a copy of book1, but I realise I am probably being nit'picky as this novella was most likely written after book1 was published but it's a potential continuity error that will niggle at me - again I reiterate tho that I don't own a copy of either book so can't reread the scenes to double check my memory which admittedly can be pretty poor 😅
Anyways all this to say that this novella has been my fav of the instalments of this series so far despite it possibly being a little instalove'y and it has convinced me to read on - not sure what this says about my enjoyment of Lyr's PoV storytelling tho 🫣
Hopefully each instalment continues to get stronger as we get more invested in the story...book2 sure left off in an interesting place so bring on book3 😈
3.5-3.75*
March 4, 2025
Seeing things from Rhyan’s perspective was so interesting and I loved learning more about the politics of the current climate, it added so much more depth to the world!
March 22, 2024
I cant take this heartbreak anymore
March 1, 2024
if i die today, Iw would die knowing that I have read probably the best novella ever written.
May 28, 2025
A novella of Rhyan earning his degree in yearning and damn do we love to see it. 😏
(But hate to see his bitchass father. That chode can fuck off.)
(But hate to see his bitchass father. That chode can fuck off.)
January 10, 2023
TBH, I just needed chapter 8.
December 16, 2022
4.5 Valalumir Stars ⭐️
Let’s just start by swooning at these two quotes…
Rhyan Hart really takes the saying “I’m emotionally attached to a fictional character” to the next level.
This is the novella I didn’t know I needed, but it crawled its way into some crevice in my soul, and has been forever imbedded deep into my heart (like an Afreya’s bargain)…like the rest of the series has.
Slight spoilers for Daughter and Guardian may follow
The story takes place three years prior to the events of Daughter and Guardian. However, it is highly recommended that it is read after those two books; because it does contain spoilers for what happened in those books. This story is told from Rhyan’s POV about the month he spends in Batavia when he is 19. This is the long awaited story we have read about and fantasised about… The second time Lyr met Rhyan she was mesmerised by his eyes, so bright, so green, like glittering emeralds. The whole month he was snide and cold and a total jackass. But that visit coincided with the summer solstice, and soon Lyr found herself with his arms tight around her as they danced. The culmination of the night for her was she had her first kiss, leaning back against a sun tree with Rhyan Hart.
Getting the story from Rhyan’s POV made me realise how much I want the whole story from Rhyan‘s POV, so I’m glad that there is a 1.5 “Son of the Drowned Empire” coming out! I really hope that is another book from Rhyan’s POV but detailing the events of Daughter or Guardian.
This book added so many layers of depth to Ryan’s character that it was utterly brilliant. This book doesn’t have as much going on in terms of plot. It’s pretty simple, so it focuses a lot of character development. We are shown aspects of Ryan’s history and what it is that makes him, him. We are given a closer look into who he is and shown how much he’s willing to sacrifice right from the start to keep Lyr safe. This book does have parts that are appalling, disgusting and difficult to read as Rhyan’s past abuse from his father is explored. I didn’t think I could hate anyone more than Imperator Kormac but Imperator Hart takes the cake.
I did appreciate how much more we got to see of Jules. I typically hate characters that are introduced just to die as it feels like plot armour. But being given this story, and actually seeing who she was before made the impact of her death cut deeper than it did as I am reminiscing on book 1 and 2. It now makes so much more sense the hurt Lyr felt at her death seeing truly how close they were and not just being told they were close.
I almost felt sorry for Tristan at the end of Guardian, but now I think he’s a scumbag and I have no sympathy for him.
Overall great short read that took me on an emotional rollercoaster! I am even more obsessed with the amazing man that is Rhyan Hart! ❤️
Let’s just start by swooning at these two quotes…
For him, she’s brighter than the brightest star in Heaven
It was hard to remember to look elsewhere, to remember where I was, to see anything other than her— her eyes, her smile, her hair—her…just her. Because everything else before me dimmed in comparison
Rhyan Hart really takes the saying “I’m emotionally attached to a fictional character” to the next level.
This is the novella I didn’t know I needed, but it crawled its way into some crevice in my soul, and has been forever imbedded deep into my heart (like an Afreya’s bargain)…like the rest of the series has.
Slight spoilers for Daughter and Guardian may follow
The story takes place three years prior to the events of Daughter and Guardian. However, it is highly recommended that it is read after those two books; because it does contain spoilers for what happened in those books. This story is told from Rhyan’s POV about the month he spends in Batavia when he is 19. This is the long awaited story we have read about and fantasised about… The second time Lyr met Rhyan she was mesmerised by his eyes, so bright, so green, like glittering emeralds. The whole month he was snide and cold and a total jackass. But that visit coincided with the summer solstice, and soon Lyr found herself with his arms tight around her as they danced. The culmination of the night for her was she had her first kiss, leaning back against a sun tree with Rhyan Hart.
Getting the story from Rhyan’s POV made me realise how much I want the whole story from Rhyan‘s POV, so I’m glad that there is a 1.5 “Son of the Drowned Empire” coming out! I really hope that is another book from Rhyan’s POV but detailing the events of Daughter or Guardian.
This book added so many layers of depth to Ryan’s character that it was utterly brilliant. This book doesn’t have as much going on in terms of plot. It’s pretty simple, so it focuses a lot of character development. We are shown aspects of Ryan’s history and what it is that makes him, him. We are given a closer look into who he is and shown how much he’s willing to sacrifice right from the start to keep Lyr safe. This book does have parts that are appalling, disgusting and difficult to read as Rhyan’s past abuse from his father is explored. I didn’t think I could hate anyone more than Imperator Kormac but Imperator Hart takes the cake.
I did appreciate how much more we got to see of Jules. I typically hate characters that are introduced just to die as it feels like plot armour. But being given this story, and actually seeing who she was before made the impact of her death cut deeper than it did as I am reminiscing on book 1 and 2. It now makes so much more sense the hurt Lyr felt at her death seeing truly how close they were and not just being told they were close.
I almost felt sorry for Tristan at the end of Guardian, but now I think he’s a scumbag and I have no sympathy for him.
Overall great short read that took me on an emotional rollercoaster! I am even more obsessed with the amazing man that is Rhyan Hart! ❤️
January 29, 2023
“For him, she's brighter than the brightest star in Heaven.”
What to expect:
✅ Rhyan POV👌🏻
✅ Simp Rhyan😏
✅ Swoon-worthy moments💋
✅ Vital background info❗️
✅ So. Much. Tension🔥
✅ Amazing romance payoff🌹
✅ Heartbreak and trauma💔
Words cannot begin to explain how much I love both this series and Frankie. We really asked her for a book with Rhyan’s POV and not only did she deliver an incredible book, she did so in record time. Myself and the entire street team (affectionately known as foresworn mayhem) adore you to bits Frankie! You’re so wonderful, passionate and talented, and I cannot wait to follow you through each book release 🥰
Now onto my review of Solstice of the Drowned Empire (SDE)… ughhh wow. Just wow 😩❤️🔥 my heart cannot actually take it.
"I've seen you. I've seen the way you look at her. The way your eyes follow her every move. The lust you can barely contain.”
If you didn’t love Rhyan from DDE and GDE, you certainly will after SDE 🙈 that’s all I’m gonna say about that…
One big element of SDE however is that Rhyan’s trauma is deep-dived into. It’s harrowing and heart-wrenching. I have read this novella twice now both as an ARC and as a tandem read with the audiobook release and it did not get easier to learn about. I have far greater appreciation for Rhyan’s strength of character and witty humour that we see in both DDE and GDE after reading SDE, especially after learning all that he’s been subjected to through this childhood and into adulthood at the hands of his father.
Seeing Lyr as a side character was so strange but seeing her through the eyes of Rhyan? That was borderline magical 🙈 the pure reverence he has for that woman is insane!!!! Ughhhhh 😩👌🏻 absolutely immaculate! And the scene by the tree?? Iykyk 👀🫠
Jules was actually a complete surprise for me and totally unexpected. I won’t give anything away as I want this to stay a spoiler free review, but I will say that I have been left with many theories about her…
Overall, I can’t fault this book at all. Bring on Lady of the Drowned Empire! ❤️🔥
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 (read 1-25/8/22, read 2-25/1/23)
Angst: ♾️🔥/5
Megs heartbreak meter: ♾️💔🥲 (stressy and depressy)
Thank you Frankie for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
What to expect:
✅ Rhyan POV👌🏻
✅ Simp Rhyan😏
✅ Swoon-worthy moments💋
✅ Vital background info❗️
✅ So. Much. Tension🔥
✅ Amazing romance payoff🌹
✅ Heartbreak and trauma💔
Words cannot begin to explain how much I love both this series and Frankie. We really asked her for a book with Rhyan’s POV and not only did she deliver an incredible book, she did so in record time. Myself and the entire street team (affectionately known as foresworn mayhem) adore you to bits Frankie! You’re so wonderful, passionate and talented, and I cannot wait to follow you through each book release 🥰
Now onto my review of Solstice of the Drowned Empire (SDE)… ughhh wow. Just wow 😩❤️🔥 my heart cannot actually take it.
"I've seen you. I've seen the way you look at her. The way your eyes follow her every move. The lust you can barely contain.”
If you didn’t love Rhyan from DDE and GDE, you certainly will after SDE 🙈 that’s all I’m gonna say about that…
One big element of SDE however is that Rhyan’s trauma is deep-dived into. It’s harrowing and heart-wrenching. I have read this novella twice now both as an ARC and as a tandem read with the audiobook release and it did not get easier to learn about. I have far greater appreciation for Rhyan’s strength of character and witty humour that we see in both DDE and GDE after reading SDE, especially after learning all that he’s been subjected to through this childhood and into adulthood at the hands of his father.
Seeing Lyr as a side character was so strange but seeing her through the eyes of Rhyan? That was borderline magical 🙈 the pure reverence he has for that woman is insane!!!! Ughhhhh 😩👌🏻 absolutely immaculate! And the scene by the tree?? Iykyk 👀🫠
Jules was actually a complete surprise for me and totally unexpected. I won’t give anything away as I want this to stay a spoiler free review, but I will say that I have been left with many theories about her…
Overall, I can’t fault this book at all. Bring on Lady of the Drowned Empire! ❤️🔥
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 (read 1-25/8/22, read 2-25/1/23)
Angst: ♾️🔥/5
Megs heartbreak meter: ♾️💔🥲 (stressy and depressy)
Thank you Frankie for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 20, 2024
This was perfect. 😭 I love Lyr and Rhyan so much, they’re slowly rising to the top of my favorite book couples list.
August 25, 2022
#Daddyrhy
Okay so first off… I need more of Rhyan’s POV. ❤️❤️
Solstice of the Drowned Empire is book 2.5 or well officially 0.5 in the series. It takes place 3 years prior to when we are introduced to the characters in book 1 and 5 years from where book 2 leaves off. Do NOT read Solstice until you have read both Daughter of the Drowned Empire and Guardian of the Drowned Empire. With that being said…
Y’all, this was written really well. I loved being able to see Rhyan’s POV and actually see certain events that we didn’t see from the first book where this was hinted at.
I loved their little banter before this:
“That handsome wasn’t the right word for you. That you’re so fucking beautiful, I can’t walk away.”
Don’t walk away Rhyan! Don’t you dare! 🥹🥹
That kiss scene at the tree… it was sooooo much better than I thought it would have been! So intense! Now I understand completely where “Hello, Lover” really did truly have a meaning after that spiced intense moment.
“I grew up in a court of liars. I know how to keep a secret, Lord Rhyan. I’ll keep yours. That you’re actually a decent fucking human being.”
Jules is my everything! I love her perspective. She and Lyr have such an amazing relationship. I’m so glad I was able to see her form that friendship with Rhyan as well. Things make a little more sense now. I truly believe there is something more with Jules. I don’t believe her story is over.
“And that included breaking her heart?” -Jules
“I think….” I swallowed. “I think I broke mine, too.” - Rhyan
My ♥️ a lot of things make sense now regarding the pushing. I just wish there was another way. 💔
“Remember who you are, Rhyan.”
Sean, we saw a glimpse of him in DDE, I’m so glad we got to see a little more of him here. My heart just breaks for them. He’s everything that Rhyan needs.
… I also see you Mercurial 🫣
Now, I have my own theories over so many things which Iv written them in the Street Team/ #forswornmayhem discord and I won’t spoil it here in this review. Just know, Rhyan will always be #daddyRhy and you won’t change my mind.
I loved his POV so much, I can’t wait to read more of it!
Thank you Frankie for providing me a digital copy in exchange for an honest review. ♥️❤️
Okay so first off… I need more of Rhyan’s POV. ❤️❤️
Solstice of the Drowned Empire is book 2.5 or well officially 0.5 in the series. It takes place 3 years prior to when we are introduced to the characters in book 1 and 5 years from where book 2 leaves off. Do NOT read Solstice until you have read both Daughter of the Drowned Empire and Guardian of the Drowned Empire. With that being said…
Y’all, this was written really well. I loved being able to see Rhyan’s POV and actually see certain events that we didn’t see from the first book where this was hinted at.
I loved their little banter before this:
“That handsome wasn’t the right word for you. That you’re so fucking beautiful, I can’t walk away.”
Don’t walk away Rhyan! Don’t you dare! 🥹🥹
That kiss scene at the tree… it was sooooo much better than I thought it would have been! So intense! Now I understand completely where “Hello, Lover” really did truly have a meaning after that spiced intense moment.
“I grew up in a court of liars. I know how to keep a secret, Lord Rhyan. I’ll keep yours. That you’re actually a decent fucking human being.”
Jules is my everything! I love her perspective. She and Lyr have such an amazing relationship. I’m so glad I was able to see her form that friendship with Rhyan as well. Things make a little more sense now. I truly believe there is something more with Jules. I don’t believe her story is over.
“And that included breaking her heart?” -Jules
“I think….” I swallowed. “I think I broke mine, too.” - Rhyan
My ♥️ a lot of things make sense now regarding the pushing. I just wish there was another way. 💔
“Remember who you are, Rhyan.”
Sean, we saw a glimpse of him in DDE, I’m so glad we got to see a little more of him here. My heart just breaks for them. He’s everything that Rhyan needs.
… I also see you Mercurial 🫣
Now, I have my own theories over so many things which Iv written them in the Street Team/ #forswornmayhem discord and I won’t spoil it here in this review. Just know, Rhyan will always be #daddyRhy and you won’t change my mind.
I loved his POV so much, I can’t wait to read more of it!
Thank you Frankie for providing me a digital copy in exchange for an honest review. ♥️❤️
November 10, 2022
Review:🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟(5/5) ⬇️
Short review: If you weren’t already a fan of Lord Rhyan Hart, now you will be! This novella further added depth to Rhyan’s character & I personally loved that. We got to see more of Rhyan’s past, and the inner workings of his mind/emotions.
Spice: minimal spice in this one since it happens when they were still in their lower teens I believe!
Plot/Pace:
The pacing for this was perfect! It’s a novella, so it’s short and sweet but very well done in this case where it adds very well to the story.
Characters:
Rhyan : Rhyan was the star of the book in this one. We learned so much about his past, how his mind works, his emotions, etc. I feel so much more connected to Rhyan after reading this!
The surprise in this book was Julianna! I do spoiler-free reviews so I won’t say more other than that Julianna fans should definitely pick this up.
Setting: Although it was just a novella, it added some more information of the world. Especially if the North.
Short review: If you weren’t already a fan of Lord Rhyan Hart, now you will be! This novella further added depth to Rhyan’s character & I personally loved that. We got to see more of Rhyan’s past, and the inner workings of his mind/emotions.
Spice: minimal spice in this one since it happens when they were still in their lower teens I believe!
Plot/Pace:
The pacing for this was perfect! It’s a novella, so it’s short and sweet but very well done in this case where it adds very well to the story.
Characters:
Rhyan : Rhyan was the star of the book in this one. We learned so much about his past, how his mind works, his emotions, etc. I feel so much more connected to Rhyan after reading this!
The surprise in this book was Julianna! I do spoiler-free reviews so I won’t say more other than that Julianna fans should definitely pick this up.
Setting: Although it was just a novella, it added some more information of the world. Especially if the North.
January 27, 2025
Just finished reading this ARC and honestly I am farther than Lethea for this series!
A prequel to the drowned empire series from the MMC (Rhyan) perspective which is lovely as we’ve needed this so badly 🥰.
Bitter sweet and sad in all the right ways setting the scene for the sweetest of slow burn romances to come.
Well written with believable characters and leaves you hungering for more. Beautiful mix of fantasy, romance, political unrest.
Definitely should read the Daughter and Guardian before this one as you might spoil them for yourself with this one first and the other contain much more detailed world building and scene/ political setting.
A prequel to the drowned empire series from the MMC (Rhyan) perspective which is lovely as we’ve needed this so badly 🥰.
Bitter sweet and sad in all the right ways setting the scene for the sweetest of slow burn romances to come.
Well written with believable characters and leaves you hungering for more. Beautiful mix of fantasy, romance, political unrest.
Definitely should read the Daughter and Guardian before this one as you might spoil them for yourself with this one first and the other contain much more detailed world building and scene/ political setting.
September 12, 2022
Mallis is a master at the slowburn. I wouldn't call myself a fan of the slowburn, unless she's writing it.
"Solstice of the Drowned Empire: A Drowned Empire Novella" throws us back in the familiar world of Bamaria, where we experience the world through Rhyan's eyes. I didn't realize how much I needed inside his brain until I was allowed access! We get glimpses into Lyr from an outside perspective, and the itch of getting to know her cousin Jules is finally scratched.
Mallis lays the groundwork for the tension we see between Tristan, Rhyan, Lyr, and the Imperators in the later books with ease and finesse. She knows how to keep us wanting more, while not making us feel like we didn't at least get a morsel of what we wanted from our main characters' interactions.
This book was definitely harder to read than I initially thought it would be. Not because it was slow, but because the relationship between Rhyan and his father is incredibly hard to stomach. It's heartbreaking, and I expect could be triggering to victims of abuse. I had to keep reminding myself that this was in the past. This did spur me to want to do a reading of the first two books immediately afterward.
This was essentially another novel in the series, and did an excellent job of continuing to weave the web of deceit and attraction that is rampant throughout the first two books of the series. I honestly was so glad to return to the world, and as always, was sad to leave it. The way she makes her characters a slave to desire while hard knuckling restraint is just absolutely knee-weakening.
Run don't walk to purchase... I have a feeling some of the details we see here will absolutely be coming back to light in later books!!
"Solstice of the Drowned Empire: A Drowned Empire Novella" throws us back in the familiar world of Bamaria, where we experience the world through Rhyan's eyes. I didn't realize how much I needed inside his brain until I was allowed access! We get glimpses into Lyr from an outside perspective, and the itch of getting to know her cousin Jules is finally scratched.
Mallis lays the groundwork for the tension we see between Tristan, Rhyan, Lyr, and the Imperators in the later books with ease and finesse. She knows how to keep us wanting more, while not making us feel like we didn't at least get a morsel of what we wanted from our main characters' interactions.
This book was definitely harder to read than I initially thought it would be. Not because it was slow, but because the relationship between Rhyan and his father is incredibly hard to stomach. It's heartbreaking, and I expect could be triggering to victims of abuse. I had to keep reminding myself that this was in the past. This did spur me to want to do a reading of the first two books immediately afterward.
This was essentially another novel in the series, and did an excellent job of continuing to weave the web of deceit and attraction that is rampant throughout the first two books of the series. I honestly was so glad to return to the world, and as always, was sad to leave it. The way she makes her characters a slave to desire while hard knuckling restraint is just absolutely knee-weakening.
Run don't walk to purchase... I have a feeling some of the details we see here will absolutely be coming back to light in later books!!
June 18, 2025
So I read the first 3 books of the main series over 2 years ago and decided I wanted to continue, so I figured the companion books would be a great place to start to get reacquainted with the world/characters. I looked at my ratings for the other books, and I genuinely think I would’ve liked this series so much more now than I did a couple of years ago, and how I felt about this novella definitely proved that!
I absolutely loved getting to see the past through Rhyan’s eyes—he’s so down bad for Lyr!! This was simultaneously heartbreaking and sweet, seeing what Rhyan sacrificed for Lyr without her even knowing.
Was this necessary to the story? No. Did I enjoy it? Yes. Was it a good way to get reacquainted with the story? Absolutely yes. I’m looking forward to continuing the series!
I absolutely loved getting to see the past through Rhyan’s eyes—he’s so down bad for Lyr!! This was simultaneously heartbreaking and sweet, seeing what Rhyan sacrificed for Lyr without her even knowing.
Was this necessary to the story? No. Did I enjoy it? Yes. Was it a good way to get reacquainted with the story? Absolutely yes. I’m looking forward to continuing the series!
September 13, 2022
I absolutely loved this! I’m so glad we were able to get the prequel story! This has me so so excited for the rest of the series! Frankie is such an amazing writer. This story was released at the perfect timing in the series and I’m so excited to see what comes next. I hope we get more of Rhyans POV!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 31, 2022
I don’t think I’ve ever read a novella so well-developed, it genuinely enhanced the series. Going in, I was expecting lots of pining and cute moments between Lyr and Rhyan but it was so much more than just that. It was dark at times, it was fun, it was romantic. We also get more history and backstory. I absolutely loved it! I will continue picking up anything I can get my hands on in relation to this series. 5/5 💓
July 26, 2023
This hurt my heart, started mending it, brought me joy, and then crushed it.
It was everything to me!
Rhyan’s POV three years prior to Daughter of the Drowned Empire. I’m speechless. Absolutely perfect. Just read it! (Not before reading Daughter of the Drowned Empire and Guardian of the Drowned Empire)
It takes true talent to create such an amazing world and to allow your readers to be experience it. I felt all the emotions. I CRIED!
“Lord f*cking Grey”.
#forswornmayhem
Arc provided by one of my favorite authors, Frankie. Thank you! ❤️
It was everything to me!
Rhyan’s POV three years prior to Daughter of the Drowned Empire. I’m speechless. Absolutely perfect. Just read it! (Not before reading Daughter of the Drowned Empire and Guardian of the Drowned Empire)
It takes true talent to create such an amazing world and to allow your readers to be experience it. I felt all the emotions. I CRIED!
“Lord f*cking Grey”.
#forswornmayhem
Arc provided by one of my favorite authors, Frankie. Thank you! ❤️
February 1, 2023
✨I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review ✨
Thought you couldn’t fall in love with Rhyan anymore than you already have? False. His story is damn heartbreaking but his heart has always been in the right place. Oh and the surprise interest of a certain fiery character from multiple people will prove interesting in the books to come! This novella was short, sweet, and heart breaking and I can’t wait to see more of his story and hopefully see them end up together.
Thought you couldn’t fall in love with Rhyan anymore than you already have? False. His story is damn heartbreaking but his heart has always been in the right place. Oh and the surprise interest of a certain fiery character from multiple people will prove interesting in the books to come! This novella was short, sweet, and heart breaking and I can’t wait to see more of his story and hopefully see them end up together.
September 5, 2022
"I'd had this feeling from the moment I'd met her that I'd known her. I'd felt safe around her."
As if I couldn't love this series more...Solstice was the perfect look into baby Rhyan's head and I'm in love! I don't typically compare books to other books but this series has definitely become one of my favorites, even over Throne of Glass. I'm obsessed with Frankie's writing and the way she brings a story to life. She does an amazing job at making you feel what her characters feel.
"It was like she was made of light, and the only reason I could see anything at all in this room. And ...Fuck I was hers."
I loved being in Rhyan's head and seeing Lyr through his eyes. I love the way he romanticizes her, I love the way he puts her above himself. Also the solstice kiss scene was wayyyyyy steamier than I even imagined!
The back and forth between Rhyan and Tristan was top tier and super entertaining. I was giggling reading every line! Rhyan is so witty I'm sure Tristan doesn't even see the insult at times. It's so fun being inside Rhyan's head when he's snapping back at Tristan.
I loved seeing more of Jules and I'm still holding out hope she's not dead. The friendship between her and rhyan was so refreshing and the way they both look out for Lyr is everything.
I can't end this without mentioning how much I hate Rhyan's sperm donor. Devon Hart can go rot in a ditch somewhere.
As if I couldn't love this series more...Solstice was the perfect look into baby Rhyan's head and I'm in love! I don't typically compare books to other books but this series has definitely become one of my favorites, even over Throne of Glass. I'm obsessed with Frankie's writing and the way she brings a story to life. She does an amazing job at making you feel what her characters feel.
"It was like she was made of light, and the only reason I could see anything at all in this room. And ...Fuck I was hers."
I loved being in Rhyan's head and seeing Lyr through his eyes. I love the way he romanticizes her, I love the way he puts her above himself. Also the solstice kiss scene was wayyyyyy steamier than I even imagined!
The back and forth between Rhyan and Tristan was top tier and super entertaining. I was giggling reading every line! Rhyan is so witty I'm sure Tristan doesn't even see the insult at times. It's so fun being inside Rhyan's head when he's snapping back at Tristan.
I loved seeing more of Jules and I'm still holding out hope she's not dead. The friendship between her and rhyan was so refreshing and the way they both look out for Lyr is everything.
I can't end this without mentioning how much I hate Rhyan's sperm donor. Devon Hart can go rot in a ditch somewhere.
September 13, 2022
How refreshing to read a novella that meaningfully contributes to the overarching series instead of serving as a fluffy filler.
The Solstice of the Drowned Empire gives readers a deeper understanding of Rhyan’s upbringing and the extent of his father’s cruelty - both of which fuel his motives throughout Daughter of the Drowned Empire and Guardian of the Drowned Empire.
Not only does this novella provide us with insight into Rhyan, but it also focuses on the character of Lady Juliana (“Jules”). Throughout Daughter of the Drowned Empire and Guardian of the Drowned Empire, Lyr alludes to the significance of her relationship with Jules, but we never quite get the chance to “see” it. Here, we are given the opportunity to see Jules and Lyr’s friendship in full swing. We also get to know more about Jules as a character and the secrets that she keeps, even from Lyr.
After reading this novella I felt I knew the motivations of each character so much better.
What a great addition to the world of the Drowned Empire.
The Solstice of the Drowned Empire gives readers a deeper understanding of Rhyan’s upbringing and the extent of his father’s cruelty - both of which fuel his motives throughout Daughter of the Drowned Empire and Guardian of the Drowned Empire.
Not only does this novella provide us with insight into Rhyan, but it also focuses on the character of Lady Juliana (“Jules”). Throughout Daughter of the Drowned Empire and Guardian of the Drowned Empire, Lyr alludes to the significance of her relationship with Jules, but we never quite get the chance to “see” it. Here, we are given the opportunity to see Jules and Lyr’s friendship in full swing. We also get to know more about Jules as a character and the secrets that she keeps, even from Lyr.
After reading this novella I felt I knew the motivations of each character so much better.
What a great addition to the world of the Drowned Empire.
August 26, 2022
As a huge fan of the Drowned Empire world by now, I was thrilled to read the Solstice novella! Normally I prefer female narrators but I actually really enjoyed Rhyan’s POV here too. You see so much more of his backstory and the hardships he has lived with and had to overcome, and his feelings for Lyriana are even more fleshed out. I just love Rhyan’s character so much, and the actual solstice night scene between the two of them was just perfect for them at that point in their relationship and lives. Reading Solstice made me want to go back and reread Daughter and Guardian of the Drowned Empire all over again, it was that good. I can’t wait for Lady of the Drowned Empire to come out! If you also loved the first two in the series, you should definitely get this one too! And if you haven’t, I’d recommend starting with Daughter of the Drowned Empire first! The whole series is fantastic!.
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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