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The Aegis Saga #2
A Saga of Sovereigns and Secrets
Darkness gathers, trouble brews. Predator or protector, one must choose.
Fate has led Macella of Shively and Aithan of Auburndale to the seat of Kōsaten’s power. As newly appointed Protector of the Crown, Aithan is bound to the kingdom’s rulers, particularly its mercurial sovereign, King Khari. Thus, confined to life in the capital, they must learn to navigate complicated court politics and the Crown’s dangerous games. Most of all, they must determine how to fulfill prophecy and save the kingdom.
As they discover truths both beautiful and horrifying, sinister forces continue to gather just beyond their realm. Rifts between the realms are appearing with greater frequency, unleashing monsters only the Aegises can destroy. And, if the prophecy is to be believed, only Macella and Aithan ultimately stand between Kōsaten and the forces of hell.
With threats on all sides, Macella and Aithan have to rely on each other and their love to survive. Little do they know, King Khari has plans for them both—sinister, secret plans.
But they have their own secrets to protect. Secrets about who they are and what they must do. Secrets that the Crown would kill for.
It seems everyone wants to shape Macella’s story to their will. But Macella has always been the author of her life. She’s determined to reclaim her story—no matter how it’s Fated to end.
Fate has led Macella of Shively and Aithan of Auburndale to the seat of Kōsaten’s power. As newly appointed Protector of the Crown, Aithan is bound to the kingdom’s rulers, particularly its mercurial sovereign, King Khari. Thus, confined to life in the capital, they must learn to navigate complicated court politics and the Crown’s dangerous games. Most of all, they must determine how to fulfill prophecy and save the kingdom.
As they discover truths both beautiful and horrifying, sinister forces continue to gather just beyond their realm. Rifts between the realms are appearing with greater frequency, unleashing monsters only the Aegises can destroy. And, if the prophecy is to be believed, only Macella and Aithan ultimately stand between Kōsaten and the forces of hell.
With threats on all sides, Macella and Aithan have to rely on each other and their love to survive. Little do they know, King Khari has plans for them both—sinister, secret plans.
But they have their own secrets to protect. Secrets about who they are and what they must do. Secrets that the Crown would kill for.
It seems everyone wants to shape Macella’s story to their will. But Macella has always been the author of her life. She’s determined to reclaim her story—no matter how it’s Fated to end.
357 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 28, 2024
3 people are currently reading
39 people want to read
About the author
A.J. Shirley
6 books41 followersA.J. grew up voraciously reading her grandmother’s Harlequin romance novels alongside Madeline L’Engle and R.L. Stine. She has remained an avid reader, whose book choices are as eclectic as her personality. As an anxious, Black, chaotic bisexual, A.J. Shirley writes spicy fantasy romance that is unapologetically inclusive.
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
October 29, 2024
If you loved The Witcher and wanted an incredible romance with a BIPOC bisexual lead (!!!), this series is for you.
The sequel plunges readers back into the heart of the story, where Macella and Aithan are trapped within the the court - somewhere neither of them is comfortable. Aithan settles into his unwanted role as Protector of the Crown, courtly intrigue and sinister secrets abound, led by the enigmatic and dangerous King Khari. Amid brewing political tensions and monster attacks, Macella and Aithan’s devotion to each other is far and beyond the heart of this story.
This sequel does a phenomenal job exploring the strength of Macella and Aithan’s love, which balances emotional vulnerability with a refreshingly sex-positive dynamic. Their bond—strong, yet deeply compassionate—offers a grounding force amidst the kingdom’s turbulence, especially as they face the weight of their destinies and the sinister plans Khari holds for them both. Their spice has emotion and kink both - which I just adored. The friendships within this story also bring warmth to the darker themes and make the characters feel even more relatable and layered. I freaking love them all. I can't wait to see some of my favorite side characters even more in the next!
The shifting political alliances and power dynamics keep the plot intense and suspenseful. Watching Macella reclaim power in her story is particularly rewarding, adding depth to her already captivating character arc. Love that gal and so proud of her! And as ruthless as King Khari can be, Shirley manages to imbue her with a dangerous charisma that makes her a compelling, complex antagonist. I am fascinated by her even though I know that she's absolutely a bit unhinged.
Overall, this sequel does not disappoint. It’s a rich blend of intrigue, action, and romance, with nuanced characters that readers can’t help but root for—even as we worry for their future. This is a series that deserves more recognition for its masterfully crafted characters and romance.
Thanks so much to the lovely author for having me on the team and for the complimentary copy. I got emotional when I got it in the mail. This review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
The sequel plunges readers back into the heart of the story, where Macella and Aithan are trapped within the the court - somewhere neither of them is comfortable. Aithan settles into his unwanted role as Protector of the Crown, courtly intrigue and sinister secrets abound, led by the enigmatic and dangerous King Khari. Amid brewing political tensions and monster attacks, Macella and Aithan’s devotion to each other is far and beyond the heart of this story.
This sequel does a phenomenal job exploring the strength of Macella and Aithan’s love, which balances emotional vulnerability with a refreshingly sex-positive dynamic. Their bond—strong, yet deeply compassionate—offers a grounding force amidst the kingdom’s turbulence, especially as they face the weight of their destinies and the sinister plans Khari holds for them both. Their spice has emotion and kink both - which I just adored. The friendships within this story also bring warmth to the darker themes and make the characters feel even more relatable and layered. I freaking love them all. I can't wait to see some of my favorite side characters even more in the next!
The shifting political alliances and power dynamics keep the plot intense and suspenseful. Watching Macella reclaim power in her story is particularly rewarding, adding depth to her already captivating character arc. Love that gal and so proud of her! And as ruthless as King Khari can be, Shirley manages to imbue her with a dangerous charisma that makes her a compelling, complex antagonist. I am fascinated by her even though I know that she's absolutely a bit unhinged.
Overall, this sequel does not disappoint. It’s a rich blend of intrigue, action, and romance, with nuanced characters that readers can’t help but root for—even as we worry for their future. This is a series that deserves more recognition for its masterfully crafted characters and romance.
Thanks so much to the lovely author for having me on the team and for the complimentary copy. I got emotional when I got it in the mail. This review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
August 9, 2024
A Saga of Sovereigns and Secrets by A. J. Shirley
I received this as an ARC. Thank you A. J. and team!
This is the second book in The Aegis Saga. The story picks up with Aithan and Macella serving their new positions for the King. I won’t give anymore detail on that in case you haven’t read book 1, “A Saga of Shields and Shadows”.
After consuming a mixture given to him by the Grand Mage, Aithan recovers long lost memories of his mothers. Reliving both the lovely memories and the most horrific, Aithan and Macella develop a plan to thwart King Khali’s plans.
But the King has plans of her own. Khali asks Macella to be her queen. How will Aithan and Macella’s relationship survive her marriage to someone else?
A. J. is an incredible storyteller and world builder. One day, people will talk about the Aegis Saga the same way we now talk about ACOTAR.
Just a few of my favorite quotes:
“You are exquisite,” Aithan murmured, the low rumble of his voice mixing with her lingering sighs of pleasure. “I cannot look at you, cannot touch you enough.” p21
She thought, I adore you, and Aithan smiled her favorite, crinkle-eyed smile. The worries of the morning suddenly seemed small and distant. p57
“You are the only home I have ever known. You are my Fate, my partner in this life and every other, gods willing. And if the gods do not will it, I will still make it so,” p98
All of Chapter 16 🫠
I received this as an ARC. Thank you A. J. and team!
This is the second book in The Aegis Saga. The story picks up with Aithan and Macella serving their new positions for the King. I won’t give anymore detail on that in case you haven’t read book 1, “A Saga of Shields and Shadows”.
After consuming a mixture given to him by the Grand Mage, Aithan recovers long lost memories of his mothers. Reliving both the lovely memories and the most horrific, Aithan and Macella develop a plan to thwart King Khali’s plans.
But the King has plans of her own. Khali asks Macella to be her queen. How will Aithan and Macella’s relationship survive her marriage to someone else?
A. J. is an incredible storyteller and world builder. One day, people will talk about the Aegis Saga the same way we now talk about ACOTAR.
Just a few of my favorite quotes:
“You are exquisite,” Aithan murmured, the low rumble of his voice mixing with her lingering sighs of pleasure. “I cannot look at you, cannot touch you enough.” p21
She thought, I adore you, and Aithan smiled her favorite, crinkle-eyed smile. The worries of the morning suddenly seemed small and distant. p57
“You are the only home I have ever known. You are my Fate, my partner in this life and every other, gods willing. And if the gods do not will it, I will still make it so,” p98
All of Chapter 16 🫠
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 31, 2024
One thing Macella and Aithen gone do, is fight for their love and their fate. And it's beautifully executed in book 2. Macella and Aithen are now stuck in the palace with the most dangerous opponent they will face, King Khari. And I already didn't like her and her youngest queen Annika in book 1 but they are actually taking the crown with this one. Annika and her jealous streak, Khari and her wandering eyes and power and both with their gifts that only being the ugly and terrible out of others. They truly belong together, a match made in hell. This book really focused on Aithen and Macella facing their past and using it to rewrite their story, as Macella does best. Because one thing for certain, two things for sure, Ms Scribe is going to write her story however way she wants and have the ending she wants. I can't wait to see just how she writes this upcoming journey in beheading King Khari, or at the very least dethrone her but that's not as fun.
November 28, 2024
Shirley did it again! 🖤
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
This was a wonderful follow up to the first book, so much so, that I’m really excited for the last in the trilogy! It ended on a cliffhanger that will leave me satisfied until the third book, and on a more hopeful note despite the trials ahead Macella, Aithan and the gang face.
I really loved book two, almost cried twice (lol). Macella and Aithan’s relationship is so beautiful and genuine, so well written. I love Macella’s genuine desire to support the people. She is the definition of “by the people, for the people,” and I love her. Everyone in this book (except Annika and Khari) is so loveable and unique. The diversity of book two exceeds book one, touching on themes like classism, prejudice, sexuality, relationship dynamics, etc. Shirley is one of the only authors, in my experience, where diversity is not only celebrated, but absolutely normal in her books. The plot thickens, and I’m excited to see how Macella and Aithan’s tale ends.
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
This was a wonderful follow up to the first book, so much so, that I’m really excited for the last in the trilogy! It ended on a cliffhanger that will leave me satisfied until the third book, and on a more hopeful note despite the trials ahead Macella, Aithan and the gang face.
I really loved book two, almost cried twice (lol). Macella and Aithan’s relationship is so beautiful and genuine, so well written. I love Macella’s genuine desire to support the people. She is the definition of “by the people, for the people,” and I love her. Everyone in this book (except Annika and Khari) is so loveable and unique. The diversity of book two exceeds book one, touching on themes like classism, prejudice, sexuality, relationship dynamics, etc. Shirley is one of the only authors, in my experience, where diversity is not only celebrated, but absolutely normal in her books. The plot thickens, and I’m excited to see how Macella and Aithan’s tale ends.
October 28, 2024
AJ Shirley once again delivered an exciting, spicy fantasy book that kept me on the edge of my seat. I was so excited for the second book after where the first book ended off, and I was not disappointed.
Macella and Aithan continue on their journey to fulfill their destiny together, and AJ has done such a beautiful job of world building and storytelling that is easy to follow and intriguing.
There are so many twists and turns that keep Macella and Aithan from completely being with each other. There is good and evil. And I have to say that AJ blew it out of the water because the evil characters really make you feel itchy and send chills down your spine.
Macella and Aithan have such outstanding chemistry together, and I craved moments when they were together.
Of course, you are left wanting more, and I can't wait for the conclusion of their story!
Macella and Aithan continue on their journey to fulfill their destiny together, and AJ has done such a beautiful job of world building and storytelling that is easy to follow and intriguing.
There are so many twists and turns that keep Macella and Aithan from completely being with each other. There is good and evil. And I have to say that AJ blew it out of the water because the evil characters really make you feel itchy and send chills down your spine.
Macella and Aithan have such outstanding chemistry together, and I craved moments when they were together.
Of course, you are left wanting more, and I can't wait for the conclusion of their story!
October 31, 2024
I am obsessed with this story! I struggled to put this down and only did so when I absolutely had to.
This was a much different pace from book 1 which certainly keeps the story interesting. Book one was spent fighting literal monsters. Saga & Sovereigns focuses more on political intrigue and court life (figurative monsters). Super fun to switch it up and kept me engaged the whole time.
There were a few twists I did not see coming! I LOVE when that happens!!
I cannot wait to see where the story continues! I am a little scared of what will happen based on the title of the next book... but I am here for the ride!!
This was a much different pace from book 1 which certainly keeps the story interesting. Book one was spent fighting literal monsters. Saga & Sovereigns focuses more on political intrigue and court life (figurative monsters). Super fun to switch it up and kept me engaged the whole time.
There were a few twists I did not see coming! I LOVE when that happens!!
I cannot wait to see where the story continues! I am a little scared of what will happen based on the title of the next book... but I am here for the ride!!
January 26, 2025
loved this continuation
Love that it didn’t end of a hard cliffhanger. I look forward to wrapping up this story in the next one.
I love macella more and more and watching the aegisez fall in loce wvn more and their story continue to ebolve has been fun-
King khari is thw worst and that attention aeeking, petty jealouz queen was absolutely rixi ulous and she needed a good throat punch.
Finley is so fun and a smart ass. Loce ftirnds that you can talk shit and mock with.
What khari was aiming ror was dIguzting and dispicaka le and made me hate them even mlre , a good villain.
Love that it didn’t end of a hard cliffhanger. I look forward to wrapping up this story in the next one.
I love macella more and more and watching the aegisez fall in loce wvn more and their story continue to ebolve has been fun-
King khari is thw worst and that attention aeeking, petty jealouz queen was absolutely rixi ulous and she needed a good throat punch.
Finley is so fun and a smart ass. Loce ftirnds that you can talk shit and mock with.
What khari was aiming ror was dIguzting and dispicaka le and made me hate them even mlre , a good villain.
October 24, 2024
OH MY GOSH. I was in a chokehold with this book. The whole idea with following your fate can be relatable. Finding love along the way is another added bonus. The twist and turns had my heart racing. I could not put it down! Loved it. Wishing I could read it again for the first time to experience it all over again.
October 28, 2024
SO. MUCH. SPICE! The constant tension of something dangerous brewing in this book had me wondering what was laying around the corner for our favorite duo. Safe to say the king is NOT who i thought they were and i was VERY surprised in the third act of this book. I can’t wait to see what happens next! Book three can’t come any faster!
March 26, 2025
I don’t know how it’s possible to fit so much plot, character development, world building and swoon worthy moments in to 417 pages. This series continues to be one of my favorites. Macella and Aithan are everything ❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥
August 3, 2024
Oh. My. Gosh. The STRESS this book had me in 😭 The continuation of this story could not have been better. A.J., you’ve done it again!! 🥵
August 28, 2024
Adventure, intrigue, and lots of spice! Marcella and Aithan must navigate their new political positions and the twists and turns made this a joy to read. Book three cannot come soon enough.
September 10, 2024
Gah damn, AJ Shirley has done it again. I could wait to get my paws on the second installment of The Aegis Saga, A Saga of Sovereigns and Secrets. While the first book was more “on a journey of discovery and defeating bad guys” the second one was more court intrigue, plotting, and scheming. This book had me STRESSED because you had no idea if something terrible was about to happen. The spice was spicy and the banter was bantery. The flow of the book was great too, without a lot of filler scenes. I do miss following Macella and Aithan on a journey, but this was a good change of scenery for the story.
1000000% recommend this series. I can’t wait for the next one, though I don’t want Macella and Aithan’s story to end 😭
Thank you, AJ Shirley, for the chance to read this arc. It was wonderful 💜
1000000% recommend this series. I can’t wait for the next one, though I don’t want Macella and Aithan’s story to end 😭
Thank you, AJ Shirley, for the chance to read this arc. It was wonderful 💜
November 24, 2025
still good
I enjoyed this one. However, the first one was better. I say that because this second book doesn’t feel centered around both of them, this one’s mostly about Macella. I enjoyed the read more when it was about the both of them together. It was still a good read that I would recommend.
I enjoyed this one. However, the first one was better. I say that because this second book doesn’t feel centered around both of them, this one’s mostly about Macella. I enjoyed the read more when it was about the both of them together. It was still a good read that I would recommend.
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews