To Defend a Bride

Entangled with the Enduar #3

by Daniela A. Mera

Bodyguard romantasy meets courtesan turned spy.
Melisa needs a new life for herself and her family. And she finds just that in a troll named Ra’Sa. He’s tall, strong, serious, and unattached.

And yet, he doesn’t fall for her attempts to seduce him. Frustrated, she gives up and crafts a new plan: make herself indispensable.

So far, Ra'Sa is unimpressed with the weak, helpless creatures he escorts across the land. The one with long, silky black hair and a red gown is intriguing, but his crystal doesn't sing, meaning she's not his mate. Thus, it doesn’t matter that she’s clever. And beautiful. And strangely hard to stop watching.

However… he is furious when she surprises everyone and offers to return to the giant capital, where she will use her position as a comfort woman to glean information for the trolls.

So he demands to go with her—to watch over and defend her in a land of cruel men.

Her secrets unravel, revealing her true nature. He finds it... breathtaking. Despite the forbidden nature of their relationship, feelings stir within his stony heart.

Will they succeed their mission or let their desire burn them to ashes?

To Defend a Bride is a standalone novel, but it is part of a larger series called Entangled with the Enduar. It can be read by itself but it is recommended to be read after To Steal a Bride and To Ignite a Flame for the best experience.

It is dark monster romantasy featuring a cunning heroine and a brooding hero. This adult fantasy romance is perfect for readers of Sarah J. Maas, Jennifer L. Armentrout, and Danielle L. Jensen.

Note: This story is an adult/new adult novel with mentions of trauma, abuse, and other mature themes.

Genres: Fantasy, Romantasy, Fantasy Romance, Romance, Fae, Monster Romance

434 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 14, 2024

About the author

Daniela A. Mera was born into a royal Fae family in Scotland. She was a free spirit who loved traveling and cloud watching while laying velvet-soft grass. When she came of age, her mother forced her to travel to Las Vegas in order to kill a dragon and conquer a neighboring kingdom.

The dragon turned out to be a man, whom she fell wildly in love with. The couple ran away to the gentle hills of Mexico where Daniela ate lots of tacos and fruits the size of her head.

Something along those lines, anyway.

She writes whimsical tales full of lore all around the world, full of emotionally available men and women who run the world. She can be found listening to sappy romance ballads while writing scenes meant to emotionally damage her readers.

When not writing, Daniela can be found doing yoga and playing video games. Join her newsletter for freebies at: www.danielaamera.com

Reviews

[Angela · Rating 4 out of 5]

" You are strong. you are fierce. You are capable. "


Please check out trigger warnings first.

This is the third book in the Entangled with the Enduar, an interconnected series which focuses on different couples.

In this world, human women are s*x slaves for the giants, monsters who only care for their needs, acting as comfort women to get a better life.
Melisa is one of them, but as she escaped her former owner, she ends up living among Trolls and meets Ra’Sa,
a giant broody troll and they are both immediately attracted to each other.
Melisa comes with the idea to seduce him to take her with him and therefore ensuring hers and her family’s well being and future.
However Ra’sa is looking for his mate, and is trying to resist Melisa’s advances.

Daniela managed to create such an interesting world with trolls, giants, elves and humans and their customs while writing a relationship with great spice and tension.

Ra’sa came out as grumpy at first, but he’s truly a softie, caring for Melisa and the fate of humans, while Melisa was a strong character willing to survive at any cost and help her family and her loved ones.
I loved their story and characters, and I’m truly curious about the other couples in the series!

Huge thanks to Daniela A. Mera for the ARC!!!

[Fey Flowers (enbytweenthepages) · Rating 5 out of 5]

The amount of tears I cried... In context to reality this book is even more frightening.

[Michellelovesreading · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this book so much. I 10/10 recommend. This is a part of a series.

Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️

[cali]

I MUST start this series after I saw the author posted this https://www.instagram.com/p/DE7zk9qR5...

[theromantasybookcorner._ · Rating 5 out of 5]

ᥫ᭡💍🥀💍ᥫ᭡
╔.✩. .═══════╗
✨✨𝘽𝙤𝙤𝙠 𝙍𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙚𝙬✨✨
╚═══════. .✩.╝
🥀𝘛𝘰 𝘋𝘦𝘧𝘦𝘯𝘥 𝘢 𝘉𝘳𝘪𝘥𝘦 𝘣𝘺 𝘋𝘢𝘯𝘪𝘦𝘭𝘢 𝘈. 𝘔𝘦𝘳𝘢

───────✨☆✨───────

📚📝✨𝐁𝐎𝐎𝐊•𝐃𝐄𝐓𝐀𝐈𝐋𝐒✨📝📚
🥀𝙱𝙾𝙾𝙺 𝟹 𝙸𝙽 𝚃𝙷𝙴 𝙴𝙽𝚃𝙰𝙽𝙶𝙻𝙴𝙳 𝚆𝙸𝚃𝙷 𝚃𝙷𝙴 𝙴𝙽𝙳𝚄𝙰𝚁 𝚂𝙴𝚁𝙸𝙴𝚂 - 𝙸𝙽𝚃𝙴𝚁𝙲𝙾𝙽𝙽𝙴𝙲𝚃𝙴𝙳 𝚂𝚃𝙰𝙽𝙳𝙰𝙻𝙾𝙽𝙴𝚂
💍𝐆𝐄𝐍𝐑𝐄: 𝙵𝙰𝙽𝚃𝙰𝚂𝚈 𝚁𝙾𝙼𝙰𝙽𝙲𝙴
🥀𝐑𝐄𝐋𝐄𝐀𝐒𝐄 𝐃𝐀𝐓𝐄: 𝙾𝙲𝚃𝙾𝙱𝙴𝚁 𝟷𝟺𝚃𝙷 𝟸𝟶𝟸𝟺
╰┈➤𝙰𝚅𝙰𝙸𝙻𝙰𝙱𝙻𝙴 𝙾𝙽 𝙺𝚄✨
💍𝐌𝐎𝐎𝐃𝐘 𝐕𝐈𝐁𝐄𝐒: 𝙴𝙼𝙾𝚃𝙸𝙾𝙽𝙰𝙻; 𝚂𝙰𝙳; 𝚁𝙾𝙼𝙰𝙽𝚃𝙸𝙲; 𝚃𝙴𝙽𝚂𝙴; 𝙰𝙳𝚅𝙴𝙽𝚃𝚄𝚁𝙾𝚄𝚂; 𝙼𝚈𝚂𝚃𝙴𝚁𝙸𝙾𝚄𝚂
🥀𝐀𝐆𝐄 𝐍𝐔𝐌𝐁𝐄𝐑: 𝟺𝟹𝟸 𝙿𝙰𝙶𝙴𝚂
💍𝐏𝐄𝐑𝐅𝐄𝐂𝐓 𝐈𝐅 𝐘𝐎𝐔 𝐋𝐎𝐕𝐄: 𝙱𝙾𝙳𝚈𝙶𝚄𝙰𝚁𝙳 𝚇 𝙲𝙾𝚄𝚁𝚃𝙴𝚂𝙰𝙽; 𝙴𝙿𝙸𝙲 𝙰𝙽𝙶𝚂𝚃; 𝚂𝙴𝙲𝚁𝙴𝚃𝚂; 𝚃𝚁𝚄𝙴 𝙻𝙾𝚅𝙴 𝙰𝙶𝙰𝙸𝙽𝚂𝚃 𝙰𝙻𝙻 𝙾𝙳𝙳𝚂; 𝙵𝙰𝚃𝙴𝙳 𝙼𝙰𝚃𝙴𝚂
🥀𝐑𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐍𝐆: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ || 𝟻

───────✨☆✨───────

𝑀𝑦 𝑇ℎ𝑜𝑢𝑔ℎ𝑡𝑠💭🧐
Thank you so much to @authordaniela.a.mera & @rrbooktours for my gifted review copy of 𝑻𝒐 𝑫𝒆𝒇𝒆𝒏𝒅 𝒂 𝑩𝒓𝒊𝒅𝒆! This review is comprised entirely of my own thoughts & opinions, & is based on the copy I received.

Daniela A. Mera is quickly becoming one of my favorite Romantasy authors with her Entangled with the Enduar series! I didn’t think I could love another couple in this series more than Estella and Teo, but Ra’Sa and Melisa are definitely giving them a run for their money! This book was amazing! The chemistry between our FMC and MMC was so beautifully written and I loved everything about it.

These two are just perfect for each other. I loved seeing their journey and seeing how well they complement each other. Melisa is a strong-willed FMC and I loved how determined she was to make sure her loved ones survived. Ra’Sa starts off as our typical broody male but I loved seeing him open up with Melisa as the story went on, and loved seeing his vulnerable side come out. He was giving such golden retriever energy and he’s such a softie for Melisa, even as he tries to stave off her advances!

They both have a lot of emotions and trauma they are working through and their journey towards love was fraught with emotions. I loved that it was a romance but also a little bit of a healing journey for the both of them. It made for such an amazing book that I became emotionally invested in very quickly.

I can’t wait for the next book in this series and I’ve been enjoying these standalones so much! Each one gets better and better and Daniela has created something so special with this world and these characters.

✨✨𝘛𝘰 𝘋𝘦𝘧𝘦𝘯𝘥 𝘢 𝘉𝘳𝘪𝘥𝘦 is a standalone novel, but it is part of a larger series called Entangled with the Enduar. It can be read by itself but it is recommended to be read after To Steal a Bride and To Ignite a Flame for the best experience.

It is dark monster romantasy featuring a cunning heroine and a brooding hero. This adult fantasy romance is perfect for readers of Sarah J. Maas, Jennifer L. Armentrout, and Danielle L. Jensen!✨✨

───────✨☆✨───────

[ForeverBooked · Rating 5 out of 5]

" You are strong. you are fierce. You are capable. "

You know a book is good when it starts with this dedication,

To everyone who didn’t need to be saved, but really wished someone had done it anyway.

⚔️ Troll Bodyguard x Comfort Woman
🔥 hurt/comfort
⚔️ SÁ survivor
🔥 political intrigue
⚔️ monster Romantasy
🔥 fated mates (they can read each other’s minds)
⚔️ he cares for her wounds
🔥 she’s a courtesan spy
⚔️ she tries to seduce him initially (which doesn’t work hehe) but boy does he fall hard for her
🔥 found family
⚔️ he helps her though her panic attacks
🔥He teaches how to fight with a sword he made with his magic so she doesn’t feel as out of control
⚔️ Tension and Flirting
🔥 He has a giant body (iykyk)
⚔️ She doesn’t think she’s worthy of him but he loves her fiercely
🔥 v H
⚔️ He’s a total softy for her
🔥 their first time is when Aunt Flo is in town (it’s so hot)
⚔️ Touch Her and 💀
🔥 cunning heroine x broody hero
⚔️ elemental magic

“Why are you still here?” I demand.
“Because I don’t care about where you were—I care about you.”



Book Highlights:

” Intense. Yes, you get used to it. All of that attention will be focused on your sheath in no time," she says.
I press my lips together to hold back another smile. "Sheath?" I've heard a woman's sex called many things, but never anything relating to weaponry.
Glyni bites her lip, also trying to contain her mirth. She gives me a brisk nod.
"Well then, besides being long and girthy, I suppose I should ask if the Enduar swords are very sharp?” I tease.
Her feline eyes flick to me, green irises shining in the mid-morning light.
“They’re made of the finest steel I’ve ever wielded.”
"And should I be oiling my sheath regularly to ensure a comfortable home for the blade?"
Glyni breaks first. Secretive laughter bubbles up between us again.

My fists curl and uncurl. “I understand I was unpleasant, but now I have experience walking the land above. Besides, she pointed at me when she asked.”
Melisa smirks. “That I did. He seems good with his magic.”
Teo makes a frustrated noise. “I suppose now we should figure out how we are going to hide a seven-foot Enduar with a tail.”

“No need to get heated. Mrath sent me here to keep an eye on you. It seems like this delicious little human has an in with the giant lords. She’s even recruited a big blue bodyguard.”

Until now, my heartbeat has been slow and steady, but when I look into Melisa’s unflinching, golden-warm gaze, I feel like I’ve just spent two hours training with the stone benders.
I sweat, my muscles feel strange, and, if I still had my tail in this form, it would probably be swishing back and forth.
When she smiles, it feels like my chest might burst.
Is this matehood?


For a second, I marvel. Then my head turns to the woman at my side. A bitter taste coats my tongue.
I’m taking her back to be tortured.
Why had she insisted? The decision seemingly came out of desperation. But I can’t know for sure—it’s all a part of the mystery that keeps her just out of reach.


I can’t tell what is so charming about this sight. Objectively, she looks puffy and unkempt as she wakes, but I wish to see it every morning henceforth.
“You must forgive me,” I say a moment after.
Her smile drops. “Whatever for?”
“I killed a few of your rabbits.” Her brow furrows.


“Naturally. Now, when we arrive, I had better do something to gain his sympathy, or I’ll spend a week in the pit.”
“The pit?” I repeat.
She nods. “It’s one of the other torturous ways we deal with things in the northeastern lumber yards. Whipping is useful for slaves with active jobs like healing, chopping, or cooking. Those with more passive jobs are sent to the pit, sometimes without food or water.”
“Why?” I ask.
“Because if you cover a comfort woman’s back with open wounds, she can’t lie down. Starve her, and she’ll be lethargic, to be sure, but she’ll still be good for a rut.”
I recoil. “Why the hell would you say it like that?”
“Because it’s true. It’s not like I have a choice in such matters.”
The truth settles between us like the snow settles on the ground.


“This… it happens sometimes. My mother called them waking nightmares. It’s just… it will… pass,” she stumbles.
My brows furrow. “It is an attack?”
She nods. “Of my nerves. Please, it will p-pass.”
Instinctively, I hold her tighter. When I agreed to take her to Zlosa, my duty was to protect her by any means necessary. I defended her from the vaimpír, and now, I will defend her from her own mind.
“All is well. The worst has passed. Nothing else will bother us this evening. You will rest well, and then we will continue in the morning. You are strong. You are fierce. You are capable.”
I will confidence into my words as her walls crumble. Another mystery unravels, revealing her fear of letting another person see her so vulnerable.


How can I let her out of my sight, knowing anything could trigger one of these attacks? What if I’m not there to hold her together?


“I don’t have a blade.”
I shake my head, holding out my hand. My wrist dips and pulls upward from the earth, bringing forth a long, jagged stone. Using my magic, I smooth the handle to protect her small hands and let it fly to my palm. Taking out a spare leather scrap, I wrap and tie it around the handle before passing the makeshift blade to her.
She takes it gingerly.
“You won’t hurt yourself if you only touch it from here,” I say, measuring her breathing to track if she starts to panic again. “My mother had attacks, as you have. They were worse after we escaped from Ruhsavida. Much later, I learned that they came when she felt like she had no power and control. Learn to fight, even a little, and you give yourself more power and more control.”


When she slashes a little close to my chest, I reach out and disarm her. Her blade falls to the ground, but her wrist stays locked in my hand.
So many touches. I’m turning into a greedy man.
But then I remember everything she’s told me about Zlosa—about Eneko—so I drop her hand, respecting her space.


I grab her wrist. “I have my limits, and injuring you is out of the question.”
It still hurts to think of those scars along her belly and up her arms—not to speak of the scars slashed across her soul, where no one can see. She’s been hurt too much.

For only a minute, I allow myself to luxuriate in the memory of him carrying me across the yards. I think of how quickly he moved and how careful he was not to jostle me. Like I am precious to him, even after our fight.

“All I can hear is the blood rushing in my ears.
All I can feel is the imprint of her body on mine.
I have a mate.
A mate possessed by that horrid giant.
We can't leave before the mission is finished, and I can't bear for her to be with him any longer.
Something has to change—I just don’t know what.”


I take my other arm and pull back the sleeves, revealing the hundreds of scars across my arms. They are so rarely on display.
“You’re right. I was with him, but Hibsej met me after. This is payment for laying with her husband," I spit out.
As the words leave my mouth, my head buzzes. I feel as though I am watching this exchange happen from the top of some tree.
I take another step back when Ra'Sa's bright blue eyes drop from my face to my arms. His large hand reaches up and wraps around one of my wrists, brushing against some of the deep scars that had been dangerously deep when they were made.
He soaks in the years of wounds.
"The long sleeves,” he murmurs, more to himself. “I thought that you only wore them for winter."
I don't respond.
He gives me the same look he did while we were traveling. Memories of his arms wrapped around me turn. He held me close while my attack raged. Cherished me. Whispered sweet words.
“Why are you still here?” I demand.
“Because I don’t care about where you were—I care about you.”



“While you were with him. You said, ‘Ra’Sa, please come for me’.”
Shit.
“I—I did,” I whisper as he approaches.
He is devastatingly beautiful, like some fallen god. He looks at me with the light chiseling out his features. There's no humor in his face.
I have never seen anything like this.
It puts me wholly at his mercy. I’m exposed.
Ra’Sa nods once. “I know—I heard it.”


“Hold me like you did that night in front of the fire,” she says, eyes blinking wide and eyebrows furrowed.
The words pierce my heart. She had been so fragile when her waking nightmare almost took her. To know that I could be there for her is the kindest gift.
“Are you sure that you want me to touch so much of you?” I ask.
“Some touches don’t hurt.”
My chest hollows out, and I slide my hands around her back. Carefully, so damned carefully, I bring her a few steps closer. My hand comes up to cradle her injured arm.
Once surrounded, she starts to shake. She falls apart in my arms, shattering into a thousand pieces that are only kept together by the cage of my body


I shout in pain as she tears the flesh open further.
Ra'Sa heard me when I was panicked earlier. Had I opened my mind to him? If he sees this, he'll kill Hibsej. And then we won't learn what Eneko finds on his trip. I'll ruin everything.


The girl pointing at me slowly lowers her hand and pushes her hair out of her face, looking more and more fearful. The movement causes me to pause. The defiant curve of her lips, the sleek black hair, and wide brown eyes remind me of just one person.
Melisa.
I immediately drop to my knees as I softly push the door closed.
"Me llamo Ra'Sa,"⁠2I say gently, matching their language.
The two girls look at each other. Twins, I realize—both copies of Melisa.


Wren. Thea.
I’d heard their voices. Seen their small bodies. They didn’t need someone to tack a dead man’s name onto their heads—they needed a new life. Just like their mother.


I can be whatever you need tonight," he says. "We have been through this—I see you. I know your thoughts. You cannot hide from me as you wish. I came because you need me."
My breath hitches, and my core hums. When he says it like this, the sense of fighting flows away. This was what I wanted—to have him so thoroughly wrapped around my finger that he'd never leave.

[Hope · Rating 5 out of 5]

10/10. I loved this book so much. It made me cry, it made me yearn, it made me ache. I was a bit hesitant of Melisa and Ra'Sa just because they are so different than Estela and Teo (whom I loved so so much in their books) but Daniela A. Mera does such a beautiful job of fully exploring her characters' motivations and feelings and connections to others. I was also a bit worried since Ra'Sa was so grumpy and standoffish in the beginning and Melisa had such a jaded and guarded world view when traveling to Enduvida for the first time. However, they both have such an exquisite transformation into better versions of themselves that are more open and loving. Now, there are some serious and dark events in this book. While I believe wholeheartedly that the love story and liberation story is worth reading these heartbreaking scenes, I highly suggest checking out the trigger warnings and the author's note at the beginning of the book. I will also say that I appreciated the author's warning and the SA warnings during/before the chapters that the SA would occur. I will also say that even though this book has serious depictions or mentions of horrible things such as slavery, sexual assault, starvation, violent punishment, death/murder, injuries/blood, sexual objectification, threats of rape, panic attacks, and rebellion/war - Daniela A. Mera does a fine job of describing these traumas in a realistically but not in a grotesque or "trauma porn" type of way. The hardships that Ra'Sa and Melisa have to endure make their love for each other that much sweeter in the end. I am so much looking forward to the next book to start Arlet and Vann's love story. I highly, highly recommend not only this book but also this series and author. If you are going to read this series, I do recommend reading the books in publication order starting with To Steal A Bride for the best reading experience.

Now the next part will include spoilers, so be warned.
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I was unsure that Melisa and Ra'Sa were going to end up being mates especially since a good portion of the beginning of the book kept saying that there was not mating song between them. I knew they would get together since I had paid attention to the author's book guide for this series, but the start of the book had me convinced that they would not be mates but rather choose to be with each other (which would have been nice as well). However, I am so glad that Melisa and Ra'Sa ended up being mates because then we got to have the undeniable attraction and love as well as the fun additions like being able to communicate just through thoughts. The mind link is also one of my favorite pieces of fated mates, especially with characters like Melisa and Ra'Sa who both have difficulty letting themselves be open with others. I like that in this series' version that the characters have the option to block out their thoughts from their mate because it makes it so much better when they allow themselves to be vulnerable and connect with their mate in that way.
Another thing that I really enjoyed is that it was so interesting that the sex in this book was so powerful and healing for Melisa considering what she had to go through before. Once she accepted her matehood and everything that came along with that, she was able to be vulnerable enough to embrace having consensual, good sex (and letting herself have an orgasm with her partner). I thought it was funny but also oddly touching that her comfort women friends said that she looked so good and happy because she was "well-fucked." I originally wasn't sure if I liked that Melisa and Ra'Sa had sex in Zlosa for the first time, especially in her bed in Eneko's house. I thought it could have been better if they finally were with each other when they were safe and secure in Enduvida. However, I ended up liking this decision because it was Melisa taking her power back and making positive memories in that place among a sea of negative ones. Also, I think it was really empowering that Ra'Sa gave Melisa the choice to kill her rapist or let him do it. Having Melisa have compassion for Hibsej and her sons throughout the book was also such an interesting choice that ultimately paid off. Hibsej was cruel but she was also a product of her environment and was taking her frustration of having an awful husband out on Melisa (not that this justifies her actions, just explains them). Melisa recognized that Hibsej was a good mother and gave her the opportunity to make better choices in the future by allowing Hibsej and the boys to have a future instead of killing them. This is just one of the many examples of how rich these characters and this world is.
I think Ra'Sa's chapters could be considered a bit less impactful or important but I really enjoyed that he connected with the human men and not only see but experience how they were treated. It really hit with me that he originally believed he was going along with the mission for duty but actually ended up finding his purpose in life by protecting and liberating his new family and her people. I also thought that the concept of a good or bad person was brought up when we found out that the men saying negative things about Melisa were actually the ones in charge of the rebellion. I thought it was even more interesting that the author made the decision to continue this good/bad person connection when Abet, one of Ra'Sa's closest friends whom he trusted, ended up murdering the rebellion leaders and trying to get Ra'Sa killed as well. Ra'Sa's conversation with Abet at the end of his life and then ultimately having compassion for him I feel mirrors Melisa's compassion for Hibsej. Ra'Sa gave Abet freedom from his circumstances by killing him and Melisa gave Hibsej freedom from her circumstances by killing her husband (oppressor) and allowing her to live without his influence.
Lastly, the influence of family throughout the book was so powerful. Ra'Sa was haunted by the unfortunate deaths of his sisters and father whom he couldn't save. And then he was haunted by his brother who sacrificed his life willingly so that all Enduares, especially Ra'Sa, might have the chance for matehood with the humans. On the other hand, Melisa did everything for her daughters whom she was forced to have in the first place. She became a comfort woman so that they might have a chance at a better life with slightly better conditions. She did these things out of love while simultaneously not being loved by her own mother and even being ridiculed and demeaned by her. I love when love stories like this end up proving that love can heal or soothe wounds that otherwise would have been harder to heal. Melisa and her daughters gave Ra'Sa invigorated hope and purpose. Melisa finally had someone who made her and her daughters a priority and feel safe and loved. It was really heartwarming when Ra'Sa stood up for Melisa against her birth mother Griselda when she started to say derogatory things against Melisa in front of her daughters. Speaking of Griselda, I think it was so interesting that the author made her resentful of Melisa. Considering both had to go through similar trauma (rape) but Griselda handled her experiences by taking out her frustrations on her daughter Melisa but Melisa instead had more empathy and took her trauma and it made her a more protective and loving mother. The scene where Griselda refused to escape with Melisa and Ra'Sa was so powerful because it is so relatable when Melisa practically begged Griselda to love her for once and Griselda responded that she did fine as a parent in a "how dare you" way. It was heartbreaking for Melisa to have to essentially give up on hoping for a positive relationship with Griselda and for a new life for all of them together. Speaking of parents, I was so choked up at the end when Ra'Sa finally saw his dad again and then his dad said that he was proud of him. I knew when Ra'Sa told Melisa earlier in the book that his dad was tasked to guard the king that he was going to be one of the soldiers trapped in the sea and I was hoping that he would be saved and reunited with his family. Then, I cried even more when Ra'Sa's parents were introduced to the little girls as their new grandparents and they all accepted and loved each other right away. Then! I cried even more during the gem and marriage ceremony, especially when the family was pronounced officially blessed by the gods. Their family, including Ra'Sa's parents, are so precious, especially considering how hurt and alone both Ra'Sa and Melisa have felt for years. I even love that Ra'Sa originally said that he wanted his own children because that's what he thought he should do or want but then when he realized that Melisa was his mate and that she had children already, he reassured Melisa that he loves their family just the way they are and that he would never force her to do anything that she didn't want to do. I loved this book so much, I cried throughout the whole last chapter and the two epilogues.

[Nic Sosa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have my doubts about this particular story, but I really liked it!
The way they became a family and how the girls love him 💕
So cuteeeee!

[Samm Woodcock · Rating 4 out of 5]

⚔️ Fated Mates?
⚔️ Troll Bodyguard x Comfort Woman
⚔️ Touch Her and 💀
⚔️ Medium Burn
⚔️ Tension and Flirting

The first two books in the Entangled with the Enduar series were some of my favorite reads of 2024, and this book is no exception. To Steal a Bride may have had my favorite OTP, but To Defend a Bride comes in at a close second with Melisa and Ra’Sa.

Melisa was such an interesting character in the original books. Having survived her time as a slave by being enticing and putting on a front, it was nice to finally see more of who she is beyond the pretty clothes and coy smiles. Ra’Sa is so ornery and aloof around her because his crystal doesn’t sing for her (and therefore she is not his destined mate) but she gets under his skin just enough to bring the real parts of him to light. His obsession with her is so pure and earnest and he just wants to protect her on her travels.

I really enjoyed this as a standalone. Ra’Sa and Melisa are such a good pairing, I found myself so invested in their story. Estella and Teo are still my ride or die, but, Daniela has such a way with creating perfectly balanced pairings! Much like Estella and Teo, they are an emotional pairing, both with heartbreaking backstories and a yearning to be really seen and loved.
I look forward to seeing them in the upcoming Vann and Arlet books!


*I was given an ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review*

[Belinda Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

“I once thought I had a heart of stone, and yet, all I needed was a stone bender to work it to life.”

- This quote sums up the heart of To Defend a Bride beautifully.

Ra’Sa’s transformation was one of the most powerful elements of this story, and it’s left me absolutely swooning. I didn’t think I could love anyone more than Teo in this world, but Daniela A. Mera has once again proven me wrong by giving us Ra’Sa—a brooding, complex, and fiercely protective hero who completely stole my heart. 💔

I’ve been intrigued by Ra’Sa since the prequel duology, where he was so distant and standoffish that I wasn’t sure how to feel about him. But this book? It redeemed him in every way. His quiet strength, his devotion, and the way his feelings for Melisa unfolded had me hooked. He was so much more than the stoic bodyguard we first met—his layers and depth were revealed in the most satisfying way, making him unforgettable. 🖤

Melisa, on the other hand, was an absolute force of nature. Her love for her people and her willingness to sacrifice everything for them was awe-inspiring. Watching her navigate the dangerous world of courtesans and spies, all while hiding her true nature, made me admire her so much. Her loyalty and fierce determination to protect those she loves, even at great personal cost, was beautifully portrayed. She was clever, resourceful, and never backed down, even when the odds were stacked against her. 🌹🔥

Their romance was exactly what we needed in a plot this heavy. It was filled with tension, longing, and all the emotional pining that made my heart race. 💘 There were moments of rejection, moments of quiet acceptance, and plenty of banter to keep things light amidst the dark, gut-wrenching emotions of the plot. I loved how their relationship evolved naturally despite the heavy circumstances surrounding them—fated mates or not, the connection between Ra’Sa and Melisa was undeniable. ✨

The plot was intense—full of danger, secrets, and heart-pounding action. The suffering of the humans at the hands of the giants was hard to stomach at times, and it had me fuming 😡 and crying for hours. There was a rawness to the way this world was depicted, and it made the stakes feel so real. The journey back to the giant capital, where Melisa offers to use her position as a spy, kept me on edge. Every twist, every secret revealed, added layers to an already intricate plot. And the emotional payoff? Absolutely incredible. 😭

🌹 Perfect for fans of:

🗡️ Bodyguard x courtesan
💥 Enemies to lovers
❤️‍🔥 Epic angst
🌊 Forbidden romance
💔 Secrets unraveling
⚔️ Fated mates
🧙‍♀️ Elemental magic
🌍 High-stakes adventure

If you’re a fan of dark fantasy romance with cunning heroines, brooding heroes, and high-stakes adventure, To Defend a Bride is the book for you. This story was an emotional rollercoaster filled with danger, love, and redemption. 🖤✨

A huge thank you to Daniela A. Mera and RR Book Tours for the ARC opportunity—I will never get enough of this world!

[Fedythereader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for sharing an ARC of this book with me !!!

“I can’t tell what is so charming about this sight. Objectively, she looks puffy and unkempt as she wakes, but I wish to see it every morning henceforth. ”

“You are strong. You are fierce. You are capable.”

“I feel like I’m going to fall.
Fall into him.
Fall for him.”

I’m in absolute awe of what the author has done with these characters.
I’m truly running out of words to express how much I love these characters and this amazing world this author has created. After Estela and Teo, I was soo looking forward to reading about Arlet and Vann (still on the watch out for it) but when the possibility to read about Ra’Sa and Melisa came about … I was head over hills in love!!! Oh boy, the effect these two had on me throughout this book was insane!!! As my hands are typing down the words, my mind is still trying to make sense of wheat my heart is feeling. The overwhelming urge to calm down these beautiful emotions that I feel raging in me. That’s the effect these books have on me. That’s the effect Ra’sa and Melisa’s story had on me. The devotion, the loyalty, the affection, the gentleness, the respect, the passion and the love they feel for one another. Born through pain, injustice, need and survival. Blossomed during impossible times and impossible circumstances. Into something pure and fierce. Loved every second of it. Melisa is a wonderful character. An abused one for sure. But such a strong and resilient one as well. And Ra’sa … he is such a golden retriever !!! Never expected it from him considering what I previously knew about him from Estela and Teo’s duet!!! I’m so glad I’ve had the time to know them better. I’m so honoured I’ve had the opportunity to experience their story while growing with them into a relationship both of them desperately needed but neither knew how to finally get. And by the time I got to the end, I was so invested that I was terrified for their life and their happiness. But the author never disappoints!!! Saying that I loved this book, I think by this point is an understatement. Same as saying I’m so excited for another story!!!

“But my thoughts belong to me alone. He can’t save me. No one can. So I cross the space between us. ”

“All I can hear is the blood rushing in my ears.
All I can feel is the imprint of her body on mine.
I have a mate.
A mate possessed by that horrid giant.
We can't leave before the mission is finished, and I can't bear for her to be with him any longer.
Something has to change—I just don’t know what.”

[Madeline Paige Fornes · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Looking up at the birds in the sky reminds me of what it truly means to be free. When I watch their flight, their formations, I am touched by their sense of togetherness. I've never seen a bird dragging another around the sky. If one chooses to latch onto another, neither can fly, and they will both fall to their deaths."

To Defend a Bride is the third book in the Entangled with the Enduar series, and the story of Melisa and Ra'Sa. I was completely captivated by Estela and Teo's epic love story in their duet, but Melisa and Ra'Sa... they hit home a little bit harder for me. A lot harder for me. Reading this book was very comforting as a survivor. It was triggering in some moments, but it wasn't uncomfortable.

These books do contain adult themes, and Daniela does a great job in all of them providing content warnings both in the book blurbs before purchasing the books as well as inside the books. There is also a chapter in this book with a very heavy trigger, and she makes a note at the beginning of the chapter that says "NOTE: In this chapter, there is a serious trigger warning. When you see **, you will know it's starting. The same symbol will show when it's over." I definitely don't expect this in every book, but it is appreciated in this one. Melisa's trauma is talked about throughout the book, but this scene was more explicit and triggering. The content warnings are impossible to miss, and they are true to what is inside the books. Please be mindful of these things if they are sensitive for you when choosing what you read.

In my review for To Steal a Bride, I mentioned that there had been a secret code that Daniela left for us to decipher. That code was hidden in the chapter names of the book, and it was a message from Teo to Estela. Estela figures that message out in To Ignite a Flame. Now, I had to be curious and see if Daniela left a code in the chapter names of To Ignite a Flame, and she sure did. So if you didn't notice that... I will leave that little tidbit with you. The deciphered response back is, "You healed me and now my heart soars beyond the stars, mi Teo." I have not checked to see if there is a code in the chapter names of this book, but I should honestly go check. Hopefully this encourages you to go read that duet if you haven't!

To Defend a Bride picks up where To Ignite a Flame left off just with a different couple. Melisa and Ra'Sa.

Melisa is in dire need of a new life for her and her family. Ra'Sa is serious and unattached. Melisa tries her hardest to seduce Ra'Sa at any chance she gets because that's how she's had to get by her whole life. If a man shows no interest, there won't be safety (even if the safety was never that good). Ra'Sa isn't interested in the humans that they're bringing across the mountain, except for her... But there's so song from his stone, and if someone isn't his mate, he's not going to waste his time.

When Melisa decides to return back to the place she was just saved from, Ra'Sa is furious. He doesn't know that she has a plan other than just helping the Enduar, but that she needs to save her family while she's there. So what does this man who supposedly isn't that interested do? He demands to go with her. Now, you're probably thinking... how is this large Enduar man going to sneak back into the place that they just raided and basically had war with? Don't forget that we have an elven friend with magic that can conceal him. Maybe friend should be used as a loose term. I'm still not 100% sold on him yet.

When they go back to the giant capital together, Melisa's secrets start to come to light. And she starts to feel like everything is falling apart. She's developing feelings for a man who claims she isn't his mate, her past that she's worked so hard to protect and keep hidden is now visible, and she feels raw. On top of all of that... she has to go back to her abuser, to try to rescue her family & help the people who helped her.

Melisa is a woman written as though she carries part of my own soul in her being. Her feelings about motherhood, about love, about being welcomed into a new family... They're all feelings I know down into my very bones. The kinship that I felt with her while reading this book was undeniable.

Here are some quotes regarding Melisa that I resonated with:
-"If he holds me, I'll crack. I can't let these feelings grow. My attachment to him makes me hesitate to do what is necessary. I can't ever do that."
-"You weren't meant to be a mother. I'd heard that my whole life. It seems I wasn't meant to be a mate either."
-"If I could peel away the areas of me he touched, I would."
-"How could I have ever expected to be strong enough to fight against this man?"

Ra'Sa is the man that we all look for and deserve. The type of man who realizes we can only heal ourselves after we have been broken and bruised, but that is more than willing to hold us while we fix ourselves, to remind us that we are worthy of healing, that we did not deserve any of the things that happened to us, the type of man who is proud to love us. He is patient, he is strong, he is steady. He is unwavering in his own right, just as Melisa is.

Here are some quotes regarding Ra'Sa and the type of man he is that I enjoyed immensely:
-"That's it? He should be promising to bring down the sky itself upon the giants. Sympathy isn't enough for their crimes against her."
-"You are strong. You are fierce. You are capable."
-"I will unwrap each of your mysteries, and I won't leave. You can't be rid of me. The stones have sung our fate."
-"Perhaps you pursued me, but I followed. I followed you into enemy territory and have thought of you every day. When I heard you in my head, it was as natural as breathing. I'm not one to give speeches, but I will speak for as long as it takes to convince you."

One of my favorite parts of Daniela's writing is her world building. I have said and will likely continue to say in every review, she is incredible at making you feel completely immersed in the world that she is writing. I feel like I'm transported from wherever I may be when I open the book, to right beside the main characters. There is always stable and consistent world building in her books, and there have never been lapses.

Here is an example of that from this book:
-"The lighting in the room is dim. It's like dozens of cool-toned candles flicker on the walls. Pretty effect, but I prefer the sunlight. More glow lights up the end of the small cavern, and I stare at the round, glowing bulbs with delicate curly tendrils splayed across the stone walls. They bloom in clusters and remind me of twirling sea creatures."

Melisa's experiences will hit home with us who have suffered at the hands of others, just like Estela's did. Being able to relate to these characters helps a lot with finding comfort in the pages of books like this. We are strong. We are fierce. We are capable. May we all find the love that considers us their Ruh'Flor.

Before I close out my review, I'll share one more beautiful quote from the book that captivated me between Melisa and Ra'Sa:

-"When I was weak, you taught me to fight. When I was afraid, you calmed my heart. I will spend the rest of my days at your side. I will give you everything I can because you are the person I choose. You are mine, and... I am yours."

I look forward to the rest of the series involving our beloved Enduars, and maybe some more allies. Thank you Daniela for writing such a beautiful world for us all to consume alongside you.

[Beth’s Book Collection · Rating 5 out of 5]

“I feel like I’m going to fall into him. Fall for him.”

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️

Author: Daniela A. Mera
Publisher: Golden Glow Press
Series: Entangled with the Enduar
Release Date: 14th October 2024

Perfect if you love:
- Enemies to Lovers
- Bodyguard x Courtesan
- Secrets
- She’s using him
- Fated Mates
- Epic Angst
- True Love Against All Odds

This book was truly captivating and left my heart full to absolute bursting by the end. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, Daniela has an absolute gift when it comes to the most incredible, enthralling world building and character creation. Getting the gift of another book set in this phenomenal world is an absolute blessing, and getting to know new characters and meeting old ones again was such an absolute joy.

From the very first page this book transports you back into the most amazingly crafted fantasy world. Having already set steady foundations in the previous books in this series, Daniela takes us on a further journey with vividly described environments that so very easily allow you to get completely lost within the books pages. Every place we travel to holds so much prevalence to the story and the importance of the character interactions in these environments does not go unnoticed.

Where do I even begin with the incredible characters! Ra’Sa is enjoyably stubborn and grumpy at the beginning, and his cold shoulder energy alongside Melisa’s absolute stubborn determination to protect her family is the catalyst for the most fabulous, banterous (not a word but it should be) relationship. The development between these two is slow but everything feels perfectly placed in a way that we get to fully know these characters and grow to love them. Both our main characters truly grow and change as the books goes on, and you become so invested in their relationship that the pages fly by. Melisa is one heck of a strong character and this absolutely bulldozes it’s way through the story to make itself known in the most amazing way. Her fight and determination allows you to truly understand her motivations even if from the outset they may seem questionable and she very quickly became my favourite character.

I truly cannot wait to go back to this world once more. Like I mentioned this book had my heart absolutely full to bursting. With the most sweet tender moments, heart wrenching emotions and absolutely action packed, this book keeps you on your toes until the very end.

[belovedbookwormIV · Rating 4 out of 5]

"You love me," I say quickly. Not asking a question. 
His hand drops to my heart. "I love you." 

-----
Content warning (not a complete list): mur3der, mention of sa, forced sw and slav€ry, strong language, blood and some gor€. 

For more information check out the content warning in the book. 
-----
Standalone novel, but will contain spoilers for books To Steal a Bride and To Ingnite a Flame. 
Written in 1st person POV. Dual POV. 
Ending: hea
Spice: 3
------

To Defend A Bride is a monster romantasy that sweeps you up into its harsh yet wondrous world. It's the tale of Melisa, a comfort/courtsean woman with a mission and Ra'Sa, the troll that goes with her to protect her. If you want an emotional fantasy read that ends with a HEA, consider reading this. Warning, it does have some content some readers will find triggering.

I thought Melisa was a great fmc. She was strong, astute, brave and kind. She went through so much as a comfort woman. And even after escaping the capital, she went back as a comfort woman to accomplish her mission. I admired her. Ra'Sa was a great mmc. I liked seeing him become more aware of things that occurred in the world and become more compassionate. I enjoyed his character development. 

Melisa and Ra'Sa were drawn to each other, but their attraction and affection grew more with time. I was touched by how Ra'Sa grew to care for Melisa. He really became smitten by Melisa and I was happy to see it. I enjoyed their romance. Ra'Sa made Melisa feel safe and loved her completely. And Melisa brought out Ra'Sa's warmth and gave him meaning.

I appreciated that the author added content warnings at the beginning of certain chapters for who those need it. I loved the bi representation and the characters who spoke Spanish. I enjoyed To Defend A Bride and I'm really glad I had a chance to read it. Daniela A. Mera created a great book touches the heart. 

This was an ARC read and review. I'm grateful to the author for giving me the opportunity to read this book. 

[Nessa]

DROPPED.

This was an emotional mess. I thought this would be grumpy meets strong-headed woman, and yes, it was that in THAT sense, but this book was wrapped around abuse, rape, trauma, survival and the constraints women find themselves bound to under the rule of men - or Giants. Ensure your hard limits before delving into this.

99% of readers gave this a 5 stars and I totally get that. This wasn't an easy story to read, mainly because it deals with a lot of abuse - sexual or otherwise. I couldn't stomach how Melisa was thrust into the position of a breeder, was raped and obviously had children whom she couldn't properly Mother, constantly looking over her shoulder, forced to be a whore and the amount of mental torture inflicted upon herself....just made her a ball of defensive thorn and nails type of character. You either like her character or don't. I'm the latter. While I respect what she's done to survive, it doesn't make her Princess Charming in the least, in fact, she's absolutely defensive and obnoxious.

Melisa was a difficult character for me to vibe with. I understand why she's got her walls up so high, what she had to do - unsavoury - as it was....wasn't something I was looking to read on a Saturday night. I wanted romance, but not this painful romance.

On the other hand, she's a fighter, determined and has the guts of more than 10 men. NO ONE CAN EVER FAULT A MOTHER FOR PROTECTING HER BABIES, and that's what Melisa was.

Ra'Sa was amazing. He was the perfect soft foil to Melisa's traumatized, roughened edges....a loving hand to soothe her wounds.

For all I care, all the males in this story can drop dead apart from the Enduar race.

OVERALL the FMC was my issue, so please don't let my experience spoil yours.

[blizardandrain · Rating 4 out of 5]

In this book we follow Melissa, a young woman who is forced to be a comfort woman in a world were humans are slaves to Giants. The only way to life a somewhat decent life as a human is to be a comfort woman to one of the higher ranked Giants. So that is wat Melissa has been doing to ensure life for her family.
As a woman shows up in the village and declares to be a human queen that will save the slaves Melisas life ist about to drastically change. The human queen tells the woman about a Place where Trolls worship woman and ensure safety for their whole familly.
As Melissa manages to excape her only plan is to find a Troll that will ensure her safety and go back to get her familly and nothing more. But when She and the Troll of her Choosing set out for e rescue mission back to the Giant village with the main goal to make the troll interested in her, the tides suddenly change. So we follow Melissa on an unexpected journey being confronted with trauma, finding self appreciation and healing her wounds.

When reading this book i felt how much it meant to the author. It was full of emotions. The Character development was beautifully written. Both characters started out as grumpy, pessimists that lost all hope of a good life. With the story we witness their Spark coming back and them finding out, that they have a chance at a beautiful life.
If you want to read this book be aware of the trigger warning as the book deals with the sensitive topic of sexual abuse. But if you can handle that and love a spicy romantacy then i would really recommend reading this book!

[Noriboo · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was incredibly curious about Melisa and Ra'sa's story. Once I started, I had a hard time putting my ereader down.

As readers, we've gotten snippets of their personalities within To Steal A Bride and To Ignite A Flame, but Melisa especially remained a bit of a mystery to me.

People, I cried for this woman. I figured her life couldn't have been an easy one, as she had spent years in a breeding pen and was a comfort woman when Estela met her. Learning what her motivations were to go back for an undercover mission at the giants after having found safety with the Enduar and learning as a reader just how appreciative she was for what Estela did for her.. I was a mess. Ra'Sa was the perfect supportive love interest. Miscommunication? He doesn't know her.
I love the Enduar. The author has done an amazing job at not only creating this world and the lore but also at keeping me invested in these characters and what they're going through. It's impossible not to root for them.

While this book is a complete standalone, I highly recommend reading the two prior books in this series to have a complete understanding of the world and the context in which this story takes place.


•••

Trigger warning:
There are three instances of on-page 🍇 and mention of past and present SA. The author has listed the chapters with 🍇 in the beginning of the book and gives another warning at the start of said chapters, with an indication where you can continue reading if you wish to skip those scenes.

[Claire Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although it's recommended to read the previous two books in the Entangled with the Enduar series prior to reading this, it reads well as a standalone.

From the outset, the grumpy x sunshine trope is hard to resist. Eternally optimistic Melisa shines despite her trauma, while Ra'Sa remains impervious to her charms. As his interest for her deepens, the chapters from his point of view are gloriously conflicted, while Melisa remains oblivious to his change of heart.

Dual points of view on alternating chapters ensure the reader really gets to know how these endearing characters tick. It wasn't long before I was completely sucked into the story, and although I had Melisa's back, once Ra'Sa allowed his walls to come down, I fell in love with his personality and cared what happened to both him and Melisa as they went about their mission.

There are plenty of other characters in this sweeping tale, too. And with that, came a lot of emotions. I have no triggers, but I don't think I've ever felt such a level of disgust for a character before; the skilful way the author builds up these characters in order to elicit these levels of emotions is masterful.

It's no secret that I adore a good monster romance and have a strange penchant for blue skin, but that aside, I've already added all the author's other books to my wishlist, and I can't wait to read this series from the beginning!

[Selenovert99 · Rating 5 out of 5]

To Defend A Bride Arc Review:
5⭐️
3🌶️
Just wow! This read was definitely more emotional but it was so beautiful especially if you listened to the playlist with it. I have been so excited to see more of Melisa and Ra’sa after To Ignite a Flame. Melisa is such a strong character. She wants to have a better life for her and her family after everything she has been through. Even though she had found freedom she offered to go back to gather more information for the Enduar king and queen against the giants. Ra’Sa less than happy about Melisa’s offer demands to go with her to defend and protect her. While he is not impressed with the humans that they have rescued, he finds himself drawn to Melisa. Seeing him go from curious about her to loving her was beautiful. He didn’t care about her past, he just wanted to be part of her future, with her consent of course. I truly loved how Ra’Sa and Melisa’s story went. It left me feeling raw with emotions and in the best way possible. I could go on about his book for hours! This story had darker themes to it so be sure to read the triggers warnings if you decide to read this wonderful book. Also deciphering Melisa’s code and reading the message made me cry. Thank you so much for letting me ARC read this book Daniela! I’m so so excited for all the stories that will be apart of this series!

[Tempest Reign · Rating 5 out of 5]

𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫 𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: ⭐⭐⭐⭐💫 (4.5 rounded up to 5)
𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: 🌶🌶🌶

I loved the note at the start from Carmen to Antonio — I was teary just reading it, and rembering about the author's earlier series (The Blood Tournaments).

This book had everything I wanted! A fierce and cunning FMC who was willing to do anything to protect her loved ones, a broody MMC who seemed to have a heart of stone, feminine rage, found family, he teaches her to fight, healing after trauma, and delicious steamy monster romance.

I loved getting Melisa's POV, and finally discovering what her secret was! I felt so connected to her when I realised what she'd been hiding, cried a little at some of the things she went through, but adored how everything worked out.

I also enjoyed getting the POV chapters of Ra'Sa, the MMC. I adored his broody, hulking self, and how protective he was.

Also, the sercet message coded at the start of each chapter was so fun to work out, and the message? I may have been teary reading it.

The ending was gorgeous, and I was so, so happy for the MCs. Cannot wait for more of this world.

𝑻𝒉𝒆𝒎𝒆𝒔 𝑰 𝒆𝒏𝒋𝒐𝒚𝒆𝒅 𝒎𝒐𝒔𝒕: healing after trauma, feminine rage, period rep, found family, dual POV, steamy fated mates monster romance, magic, HEA.

☆I received an ARC of this book from the author. All thoughts are my own honest opinions.☆

[Isa Newbury | reading_isa · Rating 5 out of 5]

**Thank you to the Author, Daniela A. Mera, for the ARC of To Defend A Bride in exchange for an honest review; all opinions are my own.**

5⭐️
3🌶

I couldn't wait to dive into Ra'Sa and Melisa's story 🥰 and I was not disappointed 😭 I finished this book in less than 2 days, that's how invested I was. This is a novel full of incredibly difficult topics, and Melisa- in Ra'Sa's words- is a warrior. And I'm so glad she got her happy ending ❤️ I cannot wait to continue with this series.

So let's get into it! This series has several trigger warnings that should definitely be heeded for readers just starting- the author notes these in the chapters they take place, and I found that to be incredibly helpful! To Defend A Bride is an excellent addition to the Entangled with the Enduars. I thought everything was handled well, and that the overall story was really good! I loved reading about Melisa learning to trust Ra'Sa and learning to let herself love. And I loved Ra'Sa learning how to be the man he always wanted to be. It was *chefs kiss*.

If you like:
☆fated mates with IPB vibes
☆difficult subject matter
☆magic
☆found family
☆war and political intrigue
☆HEA
Then this is the book/series for you!!

[Sabrina Kaeder · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story is not for the weak. Melisa suffers not only physical but psychological and emotional abuse throughout the entire story. While she slowly heals from the abuse with love and support from Ra’Sa, she still has the after effects and habits from the abuse such as uncertainty in herself, defensiveness, and panic attacks. I loved how none of it was looked upon poorly by the male love interest.

With the hardship of this book aside, the story had an incredible plot line and the world was absolutely intriguing. I would love to learn more about the magic and how it works in the core of the world. While this book is a standalone, do feel like I would understand the lore and magic a lot more if I read the other two books!

The relationship between Melisa and Ra’Sa definitely started out ice cold and distant but it slowly bloomed with every single interaction they had in the book. I loved how Ra’Sa willingly changed his opinions and mind set on children when he discovered that Melisa already had children. Overall, the book melted my heart, made me tear up, and made me blush and giggle. If you’re looking for a story that will hit you like a train and yet somehow you feel better after it, pick this book up!

[Teresa · Rating 4 out of 5]

✨ 𝒜𝑅𝒞 𝑅𝑒𝓋𝒾𝑒𝓌 ✨
📖: To Defend a Bride (Entangled with the Enduar, Book 3) by

“…𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘯 𝘦𝘯𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩.”

This interconnected standalone explores Melisa and Ra’Sa’s story as they embark on a dangerous spy mission. While we meet both characters in the previous books, this story can be enjoyed as a standalone. For the best reading experience, I suggest reading To Steal a Bride and To Ignite a Flame prior.

Tropes:
👀 Dual POV
💃🏻 Cunning courtesan FMC
🦮 Golden retriever MMC
💞 Fated mates
🕵🏻‍♀️ Spy mission
🤫 Secrets
🧑‍🧑‍🧒‍🧒 Found family
💖 HEA
🌶️: moderate

Our bodyguard and courtesan-turned-spy come from different worlds. As a human, Melisa was indentured to the giants. She longs for love and freedom but the secrets she keeps closely guarded motivate her but also weigh her down. Ra’Sa is an Enduar (troll) male who has lived with his loneliness, loss, and diminishing hope of finding his mate.

Ra’Sa loves so purely and fully, melting away Melisa’s protective walls. Throughout their mission, they slowly build trust, acceptance, and realize they need each other in more ways than one. Will they both find the courage to live and love freely?

In To Defend a Bride, Daniela takes us on an emotional journey of two broken souls finding love despite their different backgrounds and circumstances while fighting for what they believe in. I loved being back in Enduvida!

So grateful to the author for the ARC opportunity. This is my honest and voluntary review

[Sachin Karnik · Rating 4 out of 5]

In the shadowed realm of the Enduar Mountain, where diamonds sparkle and treachery lurks, Melisa—a courtesan turned spy—finds herself entangled with a troll, Ra’Sa. He’s stoic, unattached, and immune to her seductive wiles. But when Melisa offers to return to the giant capital as a comfort woman to gather information for the trolls, Ra’Sa’s fury ignites. He insists on accompanying her, determined to watch over and defend her in a land of cruel men.

As secrets unravel, Melisa’s true nature emerges, leaving Ra’Sa breathless. Forbidden feelings stir within his stony heart. Yet, their relationship teeters on the edge of danger. Will duty and desire collide, or will they burn together like stars?

Their alliance defies norms, and the tension between duty and desire crackles. The Enduar Mountains come alive, and the clash of giants, trolls, and intrigue creates a rich backdrop. Ra’Sa and Melisa’s unlikely partnership keeps us guessing. Can they bridge their worlds?

To Defend A Bride weaves danger and desire into a spellbinding tale. Daniela A. Mera’s storytelling prowess shines, making this a must-read for fantasy romance enthusiasts.

[EB · Rating 5 out of 5]

I would like to say that you can usually tell the feel about how an author describes characters names and how strong they feel about their book in the way they express there gratitude for taking the time to read it. Your story gave me goosebumbs; there's a first for everything. Excellent attention to details from the beginning, with rape, abuse and tourcher. I'm finding it hard to put the book down. So many characters in the book, for me, are abit overwhelming however, it's not hard to follow the story of each of them. You can either love the characters whilst you read or absolutely hate them.
I'd like to say I like other languages in books, I do. I just think the author could have translated the Spanish as not everyone got to learn the same languages, or have lived/live there. I'm also unsure why there was a trigger warning. I expected it to be heavy with rape.
I will give this book 5 star. 1 star on spice. Totally worth reading.

- To Defend A Bride, 100%

[Jada Jade · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Reader Book Review 🤍

⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️

Even though this is a standalone in a series… It makes me want to read the entire series 🙀 This was such an experience reading, esp from chapter 1 already having me so shocked (I recommend reading the trigger warning). It def took me out my usual zone when it comes to reads, but still kept the Fantasy going. Ra’sa was a walking green flag, like 🥹🤍 Just the way he’s there for Melisa was everything & truly had me bawling my eyes out. I love when Authors write outside the norm of the usual Fantasy beings. This book has Enduares (Trolls), Giants & other very interesting creatures!! Also, the different languages in this book just adds to that diverse layer, which just made this an overall super fun… Emotional/Deep 😮‍💨 read (I may had to go back & look a few things up). I can’t wait to go back & read King Teo & Estela’s story ‘cause 😭😭😭
I need the lore.

[Jenn Winning · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a beautiful character driven story where love and choice take center stage!

While this isn’t the first time we meet Melisa and Ra’Salore, I loved the deeper dive into these characters and the circumstances that shaped who they’ve become today.

Melisa wants safety and control, and will do whatever it takes to secure that future for herself. Ra’Sa simply wants to be wanted. The push and pull between these two intensifies as they are sent on a mission that stirs up old wounds for them both.

There is something so powerful about being seen and loved for who you are, scars and all. And this is definitely something that Ra’Sa and Melisa were able to give each other as they grew both individually and together.

Many thanks to Daniela for the advanced copy (my thoughts are honest and voluntary). Looking forward to more in this world with Vann & Arlet’s story next year!

[Lily · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a wild ride, and I enjoyed every moment of it. Mera did an amazing job with the characters and world-building, completely immersing you in this magical world. The descriptions really make it feel as though you're standing right there, an invisible observer. I love the way Ra’Sa turns the troll stereotype you normally see in fantasy on its head. He's not dumb or brutish, and beneath his tough exterior he's got a kind heart. Melisa is headstrong, determined, and fiercely loyal. It's hard not to like her, or at the very least, admire her determination. I will say, it was killing me waiting for Ra’Sa to give in to his obvious feelings for Melisa, that stretched beyond his need to keep her safe. If you're looking for an addicting read that turns expectations on their head, you'll want to read this one!

[Melissa Krueger-Shelton · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a hard book for me to read. Not for any bad reasons but because the writing, the world building, and the characters draw you in and make you feel what they feel.

The backstory and hurt that shaped Melisa hurt my heart and made me feel such empathy for her. I was scared when she was scared and cheered when she found love and joy. Ra’Sa was so relatable as well. His worries and insecurities touched my heart.

I loved Teo and Estela. I am waiting anxiously for Arlet and Vann. But I cheered and cried and worried for Ra’Sa and Melisa.

Do pay attention to the trigger warnings. The scenes are well written and vivid and create all the feels. They are also well marked and pointed out. The thought and cares that Daniela A. Mera put in this book is just one of the reasons she is quickly becoming one of my “if she writes it, I’m going to read it” authors.

[Nikki · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bodyguard x Courtesan
• Epic Angst
• Secrets
• True Love Against All Odds
• She's Using Him
• Fated Mates

Review :
This was a really good fantasy romance. I really liked how there was a map. I love how Daniela had a list of the pronunciations and terms. I find that when an author has those, it helps understand the names and terms. The artwork that was in the book was absolutely beautiful. I did listen along with the playlist. It was a really good one. There was a lot of emotion with this book. I love how strong Melisa is. She endured a lot. I love how much Ra’Sa wanted to protect Melisa after she decided to go back. There were definitely some dark moments within the book. Make sure you check your trigger warnings which are mentioned within the start of the book. I really did love the whole book.