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Kings of Chaos #3
Two Thousand Blades
There’s no escape from a dragon’s hoard.Xiang thought his biggest problem was going to be defeating the fae.
Nope.
Right now, it's escaping this dragon's hoard.
The dragon, who tried to eat his clanmate, grabbed Xiang instead, and now Xiang is trapped.
And he’s not the only one who needs to escape the dragon’s lair.
Kai is serving as the dragon’s assistant and helping to keep Xiang from going crazy with boredom.
Xiang is sure there’s more to this sexy man beyond his sad eyes and stuffy personality, but learning all of Kai’s secrets is going to take time.
First, Xiang needs to steal Kai from the hoard, and hopefully win his heart in the process.
But will they be able to escape the reach of a very possessive dragon?
Two Thousand Blades is the third novel in the Kings of Chaos series. This book contains a stubborn vampire falling in love with someone who isn't quite who he claims to be, shifters, vampires, a nosy family who wants all the spilled tea, other non-human surprises, snark, angst, magic, treasure, found family, brotherly bickering, chaos, pouting, cuddles, one very possessive dragon, and an endless love that crosses lines drawn by war.
Nope.
Right now, it's escaping this dragon's hoard.
The dragon, who tried to eat his clanmate, grabbed Xiang instead, and now Xiang is trapped.
And he’s not the only one who needs to escape the dragon’s lair.
Kai is serving as the dragon’s assistant and helping to keep Xiang from going crazy with boredom.
Xiang is sure there’s more to this sexy man beyond his sad eyes and stuffy personality, but learning all of Kai’s secrets is going to take time.
First, Xiang needs to steal Kai from the hoard, and hopefully win his heart in the process.
But will they be able to escape the reach of a very possessive dragon?
Two Thousand Blades is the third novel in the Kings of Chaos series. This book contains a stubborn vampire falling in love with someone who isn't quite who he claims to be, shifters, vampires, a nosy family who wants all the spilled tea, other non-human surprises, snark, angst, magic, treasure, found family, brotherly bickering, chaos, pouting, cuddles, one very possessive dragon, and an endless love that crosses lines drawn by war.
368 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 31, 2024
104 people are currently reading
203 people want to read
About the author
Jocelynn Drake
141 books2,899 followersNew York Times Bestselling author Jocelynn Drake loves a good story, whether she is reading it or writing one of her own. Over the years, her stories have allowed her to explore space, talk to dragons, dodge bullets with assassins, hang with vampires, and fall in love again and again.
This former Kentucky girl has moved up, down, and across the U.S. with her husband. Recently, they’ve settled near the Rockies.
When she is not hammering away at her keyboard or curled up with a book, she can be
walking her dog Ace, or playing video games. She loves Bruce Wayne, Ezio Auditore, travel, tattoos, explosions, and fast cars.
She is the author of the urban fantasy books: The Dark Days series and the Asylum Tales. For gay romance, she has completed The Exit Strategy and Shadow Elite series, and is now working on a spin-off of her MM paranormal series, Lords of Discord. She has also co-authored with Rinda Elliot the following series: Unbreakable Bonds, Ward Security, Pineapple Grove, the Weavers Circle. In addition, she has co-authored with AJ Sherwood the following series: Scales 'N' Spell and Wings 'N' Wands. She can be found at JocelynnDrake.com.
This former Kentucky girl has moved up, down, and across the U.S. with her husband. Recently, they’ve settled near the Rockies.
When she is not hammering away at her keyboard or curled up with a book, she can be
walking her dog Ace, or playing video games. She loves Bruce Wayne, Ezio Auditore, travel, tattoos, explosions, and fast cars.
She is the author of the urban fantasy books: The Dark Days series and the Asylum Tales. For gay romance, she has completed The Exit Strategy and Shadow Elite series, and is now working on a spin-off of her MM paranormal series, Lords of Discord. She has also co-authored with Rinda Elliot the following series: Unbreakable Bonds, Ward Security, Pineapple Grove, the Weavers Circle. In addition, she has co-authored with AJ Sherwood the following series: Scales 'N' Spell and Wings 'N' Wands. She can be found at JocelynnDrake.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
November 28, 2025
This is the first Chinese Dragon paranormal romance that I've read and I really enjoyed it.
Kai and Xiang were really funny together and I found it really entertaining how long it took Xiang to figure out that Kai was the dragon.
The ongoing battle with the Fae definitely progressed and I didn't see the vampire thing coming, but there were enough hints that I should have!
I'm looking forward to seeing what happens next and finding out why a cat shifter is a rare thing, as well as seeing how they plan to take down the crazy Fae - hopefully with some more Varik cameos because seeing Winter distraught is not my idea of a good time! He's my favourite Varik so I was not impressed 😂
Kai and Xiang were really funny together and I found it really entertaining how long it took Xiang to figure out that Kai was the dragon.
The ongoing battle with the Fae definitely progressed and I didn't see the vampire thing coming, but there were enough hints that I should have!
I'm looking forward to seeing what happens next and finding out why a cat shifter is a rare thing, as well as seeing how they plan to take down the crazy Fae - hopefully with some more Varik cameos because seeing Winter distraught is not my idea of a good time! He's my favourite Varik so I was not impressed 😂
June 3, 2024
the pinyin is wrong...smh. xiao dan ≠ 建豪 我的媽呀。。。please change it i'm begging you 🥲🥲
kai. is yinglong. wtf??? and he's the shou (the bottom). i'm shook. and the cattttt i finally got the explanation for the cat!!! explanation wasn't very shocking tho. and i NEED xiao dan's book with the jiuweihu. i was obsessed with them when i was younger and it would be so nice to have them appear in a novel lol.
ok but kai and xiang's romance felt quick. sure they spend days as cavemates, but is that enough for xiang to become the most important thing in kai's life and to lead kai to legit dispose of a legendary sword gifted by a legendary emperor?? the sword which was been kai's hoard heart for millenia?? for me: no.
and i'm stressing again the SHOCK. how is kai not the gong (the top) i- 😭😭
--------------------------------------------------------------
my chinese vamp babiessss (if the pinyin is wrong again i shall burn smth)
kai. is yinglong. wtf??? and he's the shou (the bottom). i'm shook. and the cattttt i finally got the explanation for the cat!!! explanation wasn't very shocking tho. and i NEED xiao dan's book with the jiuweihu. i was obsessed with them when i was younger and it would be so nice to have them appear in a novel lol.
ok but kai and xiang's romance felt quick. sure they spend days as cavemates, but is that enough for xiang to become the most important thing in kai's life and to lead kai to legit dispose of a legendary sword gifted by a legendary emperor?? the sword which was been kai's hoard heart for millenia?? for me: no.
and i'm stressing again the SHOCK. how is kai not the gong (the top) i- 😭😭
--------------------------------------------------------------
my chinese vamp babiessss (if the pinyin is wrong again i shall burn smth)
May 31, 2024
More Chinese vampire adventures
I wrote a really long and detailed review of this book explaining how, while I don't quite get the current trend for Asian BL, dramas, webtoons or music, I do love ancient Chinese history and the legends surrounding its culture.
But then the stupid app lost all my content so I'm writing this version now which basically says I really enjoyed the plotline in this instalment.
I totally guessed who was going to return in time to be a new bad guy later on but it doesn't spoil what happens beforehand.
I really liked the snappy and accidental friendship which grew between Xiang and Kai, his dragon in disguise and I liked that there was plenty of discussions between them about the situation they were in.
There's a usual amount of possessive "he's my mate" I've come to expect in this type of paranormal romance, but also some more elements that were a surprise.
Overall another solid entry and, as I also guessed what was going on with the mysterious cat, I'm very much looking forward to book four!
I wrote a really long and detailed review of this book explaining how, while I don't quite get the current trend for Asian BL, dramas, webtoons or music, I do love ancient Chinese history and the legends surrounding its culture.
But then the stupid app lost all my content so I'm writing this version now which basically says I really enjoyed the plotline in this instalment.
I totally guessed who was going to return in time to be a new bad guy later on but it doesn't spoil what happens beforehand.
I really liked the snappy and accidental friendship which grew between Xiang and Kai, his dragon in disguise and I liked that there was plenty of discussions between them about the situation they were in.
There's a usual amount of possessive "he's my mate" I've come to expect in this type of paranormal romance, but also some more elements that were a surprise.
Overall another solid entry and, as I also guessed what was going on with the mysterious cat, I'm very much looking forward to book four!
August 30, 2024
Pouting dragon is absolutely delightful 😆
Li Xiang (the third Zhang brother) has been taken by a dragon under command from the fae queen. But instead bringing Xiang to the fae realm, the dragon takes him to his hoard, where Xiang meets this mysterious dragon assistant (Xiang named him "Kai" because that man doesn't remember his own name). Xiang promises Kai that they will run away from the dragon together.
... except unbeknownst to Xiang, Kai IS the dragon.
Like I said, pouting dragon is delightful. I had wonderful time reading how Kai, in his human form, tried to keep Xiang in the hoard. There were banters, playing games, and pouting, lots and lots of pouting 😂.
I liked the idea of HOW a mighty dragon could be under a command from the fae queen. It was a good explanation - and how it changed because of Xiang's presence in Kai's life. I adored Kai and Xiang relationship (the free short story that came after this also shown how different Kai and Xiang relationship compared to Chen/Moon or Yichen/Rei).
There's a big revelation in this book - luckily no other Zhang brothers are taken - in which they found out that their . That will be interesting to read in book #4 and #5.
Book #4 is not until December though (*pout*) and I am DYING to read Xiao Dan and Huli jing's story but that is not until book #5 which means next year 😭
Li Xiang (the third Zhang brother) has been taken by a dragon under command from the fae queen. But instead bringing Xiang to the fae realm, the dragon takes him to his hoard, where Xiang meets this mysterious dragon assistant (Xiang named him "Kai" because that man doesn't remember his own name). Xiang promises Kai that they will run away from the dragon together.
... except unbeknownst to Xiang, Kai IS the dragon.
Like I said, pouting dragon is delightful. I had wonderful time reading how Kai, in his human form, tried to keep Xiang in the hoard. There were banters, playing games, and pouting, lots and lots of pouting 😂.
I liked the idea of HOW a mighty dragon could be under a command from the fae queen. It was a good explanation - and how it changed because of Xiang's presence in Kai's life. I adored Kai and Xiang relationship (the free short story that came after this also shown how different Kai and Xiang relationship compared to Chen/Moon or Yichen/Rei).
There's a big revelation in this book - luckily no other Zhang brothers are taken - in which they found out that their . That will be interesting to read in book #4 and #5.
Book #4 is not until December though (*pout*) and I am DYING to read Xiao Dan and Huli jing's story but that is not until book #5 which means next year 😭
June 3, 2024
I loved this book - maybe even more than the first and definitely more than the second.
Xiang was not one of my favorites before but together with Kai, he is awesome.
I loved how this story worked and how their relationship developed. this is great writing in a great setting ... and it is fun to read.
their relationship is really well developed, Kais personality is such a great find - I loved him dearly.
I loved that we see some of the Variks and would have loved to get more of them ... but maybe with the developments in this books, we will get another Varik book as well.
what I really enjoy in this book is the sense of family, we get with each installment. They are a family in all but blood and it shows
I have to say, I expected another book next. but this will be interesting
this series is great and I can't wait to get my hands on the next book
Xiang was not one of my favorites before but together with Kai, he is awesome.
I loved how this story worked and how their relationship developed. this is great writing in a great setting ... and it is fun to read.
their relationship is really well developed, Kais personality is such a great find - I loved him dearly.
I loved that we see some of the Variks and would have loved to get more of them ... but maybe with the developments in this books, we will get another Varik book as well.
what I really enjoy in this book is the sense of family, we get with each installment. They are a family in all but blood and it shows
I have to say, I expected another book next. but this will be interesting
this series is great and I can't wait to get my hands on the next book
May 28, 2024
Yes. Yes. Two thosuand times yes!
This book was so good. I adore the ongoing B plot of the fae and earth domination, loved the added mythology of dragons, loved Kai as a dragon specifically, love how he gets folded into the clan, love the conflict... but most of all I loved the push and pull between Xiang and Kai. It is so utterly delightful! Kai is just the perfect match for Xiang. I adored this book.
And the little sneak peek for the next one will be eating at me for a while. It is bound to be good.
This book was so good. I adore the ongoing B plot of the fae and earth domination, loved the added mythology of dragons, loved Kai as a dragon specifically, love how he gets folded into the clan, love the conflict... but most of all I loved the push and pull between Xiang and Kai. It is so utterly delightful! Kai is just the perfect match for Xiang. I adored this book.
And the little sneak peek for the next one will be eating at me for a while. It is bound to be good.
June 1, 2024
This is book 3 in the series and you read them in order to understand the characters and their world. At the end of book 2, Xiang is kidnapped by a dragon and kept in his hoard. He meets a man who won’t tell him his name. As the weeks go by, Xiang and who he finally calls Kai, strike up a friendship. When Kai finally brings Xiang home and realizes that Kai is the dragon, they learn that Kai is under the command of the fae as they have his sword. I am loving this world as the Zhang clan are accepting of Kai. Great heat and chemistry between the two. An old enemy is also introduced. Cannot wait to read more.
May 29, 2024
I love this book, series, universe and think everyone should read it.
This one comes off the book before it and therefore this is not a standalone, you really need to read what came first (this series in particular)
I loved Kai he was just so nicely possessive and worried and just overall beautiful person who is a perfect mate for Xiang. I just enjoyed the way their relationship came together. I also enjoyed the family elements, like always, even with the added element of who Kai really is, I felt that gave a lovely element to the struggled Kai was having with Xiang going home. the fights were action packed and the surprises made me desperate for the next book. Honestly tho I love the world and would have felt that way anyway.
Troupes:
Forced Proximity
Grumpy/Sunshine
Impulsive Vampire/Possessive Dragon
Found Family
Magic & Mayhem
CW: kidnapping, Magically Imprisonedish
This one comes off the book before it and therefore this is not a standalone, you really need to read what came first (this series in particular)
I loved Kai he was just so nicely possessive and worried and just overall beautiful person who is a perfect mate for Xiang. I just enjoyed the way their relationship came together. I also enjoyed the family elements, like always, even with the added element of who Kai really is, I felt that gave a lovely element to the struggled Kai was having with Xiang going home. the fights were action packed and the surprises made me desperate for the next book. Honestly tho I love the world and would have felt that way anyway.
Troupes:
Forced Proximity
Grumpy/Sunshine
Impulsive Vampire/Possessive Dragon
Found Family
Magic & Mayhem
CW: kidnapping, Magically Imprisonedish
June 2, 2024
4.5 Stars
Another awesome read from this series! The book was filled with suspense, shock, heart stoping moments, steam and surprises. I had to slap my kindle down a few times because I was shocked or nope, can’t read no more because what I read can’t be, lol, but I pick it back up and continue with tears in my eyes with relief most of the times. I love the main characters of course and the whole clan and we got some more Varik Clan with a shock and wondering what’s going on with them. I must say, Kai is very possessive, he can be sweet and agreeable when he wants to, but the short story afterwards, he had me laughing the whole time, he’s awesome! Go Xiang, you got a good one ;) Can’t wait for the next book in December, I knew the cat was different awhile back, glad I was right!
Another awesome read from this series! The book was filled with suspense, shock, heart stoping moments, steam and surprises. I had to slap my kindle down a few times because I was shocked or nope, can’t read no more because what I read can’t be, lol, but I pick it back up and continue with tears in my eyes with relief most of the times. I love the main characters of course and the whole clan and we got some more Varik Clan with a shock and wondering what’s going on with them. I must say, Kai is very possessive, he can be sweet and agreeable when he wants to, but the short story afterwards, he had me laughing the whole time, he’s awesome! Go Xiang, you got a good one ;) Can’t wait for the next book in December, I knew the cat was different awhile back, glad I was right!
May 30, 2024
The next chapter in this series had me on edge the entire time. Not only are our group of warriors fighting the fae, but now we have a dragon on board! Xiang is the main focus of this story as he is trying to return home after being kidnapped by a dragon at the end of the last book. But soon he will realize running from the dragon is the last thing he wants. Kai, a dragon older than them all, is currently fighting with the fae queen while quickly realizing he doesn't want to return Xiang to his clan without him going as well. The continued saga of our vampire warriors and their growing clan of mates is at times bloodthirsty yet always filled with devotion and love.
May 31, 2024
Oooh.. possessive dragons! Kai is an amazing character. Jocylynn usually has well rounded characters with a lot of depth but I just loved how Kai's species and history can be seen in his every reaction to Xiang. Xiang is just as snarky and annoying as we have seen in the past books but we get to seen the why. The two of them really come of as inevitable.
The over arching story has some wonderful mic drop moments and I just can't wait to see what happens next... and the teaser for the next couple is adorable.
The over arching story has some wonderful mic drop moments and I just can't wait to see what happens next... and the teaser for the next couple is adorable.
June 1, 2024
I love this series. the plot keeps improving and all the new characters we get introduced to are interesting. I was so excited about this book because duh dragon. And Kai didn't disappoint, he is like a giant grumpy and sometimes sweet cat but only for Xiang. I wasn't a fan of Xiang in the first books he was quite annoying and I felt sorry for Chen most of the time but I stand corrected. kai and Xiang complement each other perfectly and it was nice to witness. can't wait for Junjie's book, I KNEW that cat wasn't just a cat.
May 28, 2024
This series has been my favorite so far in this universe. Kai and Xiang really helped keep that opinion true. So much happened in this book and it really kept in engaged and wondering what the hell could happen next?!
Having Kai’s point of view really helped with understanding his actions and behaviors. I recommend picking up this series.
Having Kai’s point of view really helped with understanding his actions and behaviors. I recommend picking up this series.
July 20, 2024
Definitiv mein absoluter Fav bisher. Ich habe Xiang und Kai geliebt. Gebt mir einen possessiven Drachen, starke Charaktere und banter und ich bin absolut glücklich 😍❤️
Ich freue mich schon auf Band 4 und diese interessante Kombi... 😂
Ich freue mich schon auf Band 4 und diese interessante Kombi... 😂
June 5, 2024
a vivid tapestry of ancient history, gods come to life, otherworldly internecine war, magical blades, and forever love. Memorable, emotional and immensely powerful.
Rating: 5🌈
Never has Jocelynn Drake’s fantastic fantasy series, Kings of Chaos, leaned so heavily and culturally into its Chinese mythological roots as it does beautifully in Two Thousand Blades.
When Two Thousand Tears dramatically ended, so many major traumatic events had happened. The Elf King had been ended. But the invasion, lead by the Elf Queen, was successful and the East Coast was falling fast as the otherworldly forest spread. But more devastating, the Clan lost a brother as a dragon sank down into the battle and stole Xiang away from his family and those fighting against the Fae.
Drake’s clear love of Chinese mythology and culture has always been used beautifully against the various otherworldly themes and mythologies at play in this series. But in Two Thousand Blades, she allows them full rein.
This tale becomes a vivid tapestry of ancient history, gods come to life, otherworldly internecine war, magical blades, and forever love. Memorable, emotional and immensely powerful.
It’s Xiang’s background. His family and past so cemented in their original home so far away and Kai, the one who becomes everything to him. The swirling mythology of which is well known today and is attached via footnotes and addendums here by the author.
It’s how Drake builds their relationship, the slow reveal of identity, and the meshing of the two ongoing conflicts/locations that work together so seamlessly here. We see the Clan of 2,000 Chinese vampires, their mates, friends and allies in Hartford fighting the Fae and desperately seeking a way to find their brother Xiang. And we have Xiang and Kai in the Dragon’s cave with Xiang equally seeking passage home, answers about their location, and the dragon.
The relationship between Xiang and Kai is revelatory personally and historically. It’s a great way, narratively, for Drake to bring the history of the Clan’s history, their horrific transformation into vampires, and their defeat of their master.
Without venturing into spoiler territory, this is an exciting, high stakes, action packed storyline where even if you think the Clan has come out ahead, nothing is as it seems. The clan and its family will have its major brutal challenges ahead and angst filled romances to come.
We know who is next as the ending is a bit of a stunner and cliffhanger, both in the best way possible. So now it’s waiting until Two Thousand Shadows comes out in December.
Until then, I’m highly recommending all the books in this series. Read them in the order they are written for character and plot development. Just a superb series in every aspect.
Love the covers, the concept. Fantastic.
The Kings of Chaos :
- [x] Two Thousand Dreams #1
- [x] Two Thousand Tears #2
- [x] Two Thousand Blades #3
- [ ] Two Thousand Shadows #4 - Dec 13, 2024
Rating: 5🌈
Never has Jocelynn Drake’s fantastic fantasy series, Kings of Chaos, leaned so heavily and culturally into its Chinese mythological roots as it does beautifully in Two Thousand Blades.
When Two Thousand Tears dramatically ended, so many major traumatic events had happened. The Elf King had been ended. But the invasion, lead by the Elf Queen, was successful and the East Coast was falling fast as the otherworldly forest spread. But more devastating, the Clan lost a brother as a dragon sank down into the battle and stole Xiang away from his family and those fighting against the Fae.
Drake’s clear love of Chinese mythology and culture has always been used beautifully against the various otherworldly themes and mythologies at play in this series. But in Two Thousand Blades, she allows them full rein.
This tale becomes a vivid tapestry of ancient history, gods come to life, otherworldly internecine war, magical blades, and forever love. Memorable, emotional and immensely powerful.
It’s Xiang’s background. His family and past so cemented in their original home so far away and Kai, the one who becomes everything to him. The swirling mythology of which is well known today and is attached via footnotes and addendums here by the author.
It’s how Drake builds their relationship, the slow reveal of identity, and the meshing of the two ongoing conflicts/locations that work together so seamlessly here. We see the Clan of 2,000 Chinese vampires, their mates, friends and allies in Hartford fighting the Fae and desperately seeking a way to find their brother Xiang. And we have Xiang and Kai in the Dragon’s cave with Xiang equally seeking passage home, answers about their location, and the dragon.
The relationship between Xiang and Kai is revelatory personally and historically. It’s a great way, narratively, for Drake to bring the history of the Clan’s history, their horrific transformation into vampires, and their defeat of their master.
Without venturing into spoiler territory, this is an exciting, high stakes, action packed storyline where even if you think the Clan has come out ahead, nothing is as it seems. The clan and its family will have its major brutal challenges ahead and angst filled romances to come.
We know who is next as the ending is a bit of a stunner and cliffhanger, both in the best way possible. So now it’s waiting until Two Thousand Shadows comes out in December.
Until then, I’m highly recommending all the books in this series. Read them in the order they are written for character and plot development. Just a superb series in every aspect.
Love the covers, the concept. Fantastic.
The Kings of Chaos :
- [x] Two Thousand Dreams #1
- [x] Two Thousand Tears #2
- [x] Two Thousand Blades #3
- [ ] Two Thousand Shadows #4 - Dec 13, 2024
June 1, 2024
Kai and Xiang's romance was as unexpected as it was adorable. I never would have guessed that Xiang being kidnapped by a dragon would lead him to find his perfect match, but that's exactly what happened as he and Kai got to know each other. Compared to the other books in this series, Kai and Xiang got off to a peaceful start, bonding over games of weiqi and spending long afternoons cuddled up together as Xiang plotted their escape from the hoard. It was impossible to completely forget the looming fae threat, but with Xiang and Kai in their own little bubble it was easier to focus on their sweetly growing romance. I had a goofy grin on my face the whole time I was watching them fall head over heels for each other, and they were so freaking sweet to each other that I couldn't get enough of it. Kai's secret was revealed to the readers pretty early on, but Xiang remained in the dark for long enough that when the truth came out, it was less of a dramatic breaking point for him and Kai and more of a final reveal to bring the two of them even closer together. From that point on the focus shifted to them working with the Zhang clan to free the dragon from the fae queen's control, and what a rollercoaster that turned out to be. From the reappearance of allies such as the Variks to high stakes clashes with the fae that left both sides bleeding and broken, this story put the pressure on all my beloved vampires and their mates and made it clear how serious the threat against them was. Xiang and Kai were fierce fighters but also incredibly stubborn about wanting to keep each other safe and away from battle. I never doubted their love for each other, but it took a few intense arguments for them to understand each other's perspectives and make sure they were on equal footing. I was really pleased by how much each of them grew as romantic partners, and by the end their love scenes were so sweet I wanted to roll around in them forever. When the last big clash came, it came with a ton of surprises--old enemies resurfacing and supposed allies turned against each other in an incredibly tense standoff that ended with the dragon freed from fae control but much larger consequences underway for the entirety of humanity. The Zhang clan still has a long way to go before fully vanquishing the fae threat, and I can't wait to see what's coming next.
**I voluntarily read an ARC of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
**I voluntarily read an ARC of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
February 21, 2025
Two Thousand Blades is an absolute gem in the Kings of Chaos series! From the moment Xiang finds himself trapped in a dragon’s hoard, the story takes off with humour, adventure, and a romance that keeps you hooked until the very last page.
Xiang is everything you want in a protagonist—stubborn, witty, and fiercely determined. His dynamic with Kai is beautifully layered, with plenty of tension, longing, and undeniable chemistry.
The slow unraveling of Kai’s secrets adds depth to the story, making their relationship even more compelling.
And let’s not forget the dragon! Possessive, terrifying, and full of surprises, this dragon’s lair is more than just a prison—it’s a stage for an epic tale of love, magic, and found family. The mix of shifters, vampires, and fae makes for a rich, immersive world that’s both thrilling and heartwarming.
With its perfect blend of snark, angst, and romance, Two Thousand Blades is an absolute must-read for fantasy romance lovers. If you enjoy stories with possessive dragons, reluctant alliances, and a love that defies all odds, you’ll adore this book.
Highly recommend!
Part of the Kings of Chaos Series, which is a spin-off from the Lords of Discord Series and linked to the Princes of Mayhem Series.
June 6, 2024
4.5 ⭐
First of all, the book is not standalone. Even though each book follows a different couple achieving their HEA, there is an overarching plot that connects all the books.
The story picks up where the previous book left off, with Xiang being kidnapped by the dragon and placed in his hoard. Once there, Xiang meets the dragon in his human form but mistakenly believes him to be another prisoner. While the secret is revealed to us early on, Xiang remains unaware for the first quarter of the story, spending that time plotting their escape from the hoard and return to the Zhang clan.
I really appreciate how the forced proximity trope was used in this story. It provides Xiang and Kai with uninterrupted time to get to know each other and form a bond that I believe wouldn’t not have developed otherwise. The push and pull between Xiang and Kai was entertaining, and it was sweet to see their growing bond and how they were slowly falling in love. And I adore that the moment when Xiang finally discovers Kai’s secret is used as a moment that brings them closer together instead of tearing them apart.
However, the looming fae threat is ever-present, and the focus starts to shift to their collaboration with the Zhang clan to fight the fae queen while navigating their burgeoning relationship. All this leads to a thrilling rollercoaster of events and emotions.
As always, Jocelynn Drake delivers well-rounded characters with depth. Both Xiang and Kai are fierce protectors and fighters, but their frustration and stubbornness when being protective of each other add a layer of realism. They both have tempers, tend to jump to conclusions, and have poor listening skills when angry, which leads to heated discussions. However, their communication is one of the highlights of the story. Throughout the story, whether discussing their situation, misunderstandings, growing feelings, or any problems they face, they consistently talk things through. This allows them to understand each other’s perspectives and establish equal footing. There are also tender and sweet love scenes amid everything else that contribute to their development as romantic partners.
The final clash brings a multitude of surprises, and although the Zhang clan wins the battle, the war continues.
Aside from wonderful characters, strong world-building and thrilling events, I also loved the family elements of the story, the rich mythology of dragons in China, and how Kai is seamlessly integrated into the clan, ensuring he’s never lonely again.
This was another great read by Jocelynn Drake, and I am eagerly looking forward to the next book!
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my unbiased review.
First of all, the book is not standalone. Even though each book follows a different couple achieving their HEA, there is an overarching plot that connects all the books.
The story picks up where the previous book left off, with Xiang being kidnapped by the dragon and placed in his hoard. Once there, Xiang meets the dragon in his human form but mistakenly believes him to be another prisoner. While the secret is revealed to us early on, Xiang remains unaware for the first quarter of the story, spending that time plotting their escape from the hoard and return to the Zhang clan.
I really appreciate how the forced proximity trope was used in this story. It provides Xiang and Kai with uninterrupted time to get to know each other and form a bond that I believe wouldn’t not have developed otherwise. The push and pull between Xiang and Kai was entertaining, and it was sweet to see their growing bond and how they were slowly falling in love. And I adore that the moment when Xiang finally discovers Kai’s secret is used as a moment that brings them closer together instead of tearing them apart.
However, the looming fae threat is ever-present, and the focus starts to shift to their collaboration with the Zhang clan to fight the fae queen while navigating their burgeoning relationship. All this leads to a thrilling rollercoaster of events and emotions.
As always, Jocelynn Drake delivers well-rounded characters with depth. Both Xiang and Kai are fierce protectors and fighters, but their frustration and stubbornness when being protective of each other add a layer of realism. They both have tempers, tend to jump to conclusions, and have poor listening skills when angry, which leads to heated discussions. However, their communication is one of the highlights of the story. Throughout the story, whether discussing their situation, misunderstandings, growing feelings, or any problems they face, they consistently talk things through. This allows them to understand each other’s perspectives and establish equal footing. There are also tender and sweet love scenes amid everything else that contribute to their development as romantic partners.
The final clash brings a multitude of surprises, and although the Zhang clan wins the battle, the war continues.
Aside from wonderful characters, strong world-building and thrilling events, I also loved the family elements of the story, the rich mythology of dragons in China, and how Kai is seamlessly integrated into the clan, ensuring he’s never lonely again.
This was another great read by Jocelynn Drake, and I am eagerly looking forward to the next book!
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my unbiased review.
June 5, 2024
Another emotional entry in this series
4.5 stars…
This is the third book in the Kings of Chaos series. Two members of this clan of ancient Chinese vampires have already found their mates. Now it is Xiang’s turn. At the end of book two he was snatched up by a dragon and carried away to an underground hoard. This is where the book starts.
The first part of the book moves a bit slowly and I was getting impatient for something more than sitting around the hoard and chatting with and annoying Kai, the man Xiang thinks is a fellow prisoner. Xiang keeps trying to figure out a way to escape and he promises Kai that he will bring him along when he does and he will be safe with his clan.
As anyone who has ever read paranormal romance will know, nothing is as it seems and a friendship quickly develops between the two men and they become attached to each other. When they finally rejoin Xiang’s clan and plot how to solve two problems the action finally begins to pick up. The battle scenes are tense and exciting. As was the pattern in the first two books, one problem is solved while another problem is discovered.
I love the dynamic between the MCs and between the found family of clan members and their mates. We also get cameos from the Varik clan and the witches of The Princes of Mayhem series though less in this book than in the first two. As usual Drake has created interesting and flawed characters with tough backgrounds and we get to see the path to discovery of self forgiveness and finding love. The books always leave me feeling hopeful. At the end of this book we get a surprise that is our segue to the next book. I’m very much looking forward to book four.
4.5 stars…
This is the third book in the Kings of Chaos series. Two members of this clan of ancient Chinese vampires have already found their mates. Now it is Xiang’s turn. At the end of book two he was snatched up by a dragon and carried away to an underground hoard. This is where the book starts.
The first part of the book moves a bit slowly and I was getting impatient for something more than sitting around the hoard and chatting with and annoying Kai, the man Xiang thinks is a fellow prisoner. Xiang keeps trying to figure out a way to escape and he promises Kai that he will bring him along when he does and he will be safe with his clan.
As anyone who has ever read paranormal romance will know, nothing is as it seems and a friendship quickly develops between the two men and they become attached to each other. When they finally rejoin Xiang’s clan and plot how to solve two problems the action finally begins to pick up. The battle scenes are tense and exciting. As was the pattern in the first two books, one problem is solved while another problem is discovered.
I love the dynamic between the MCs and between the found family of clan members and their mates. We also get cameos from the Varik clan and the witches of The Princes of Mayhem series though less in this book than in the first two. As usual Drake has created interesting and flawed characters with tough backgrounds and we get to see the path to discovery of self forgiveness and finding love. The books always leave me feeling hopeful. At the end of this book we get a surprise that is our segue to the next book. I’m very much looking forward to book four.
June 14, 2024
this series just keeps getting better!
I love love love this series.
I have been so excited for Xiang’s story since he was taken at the end of the last book, it *did* *not* *disappoint*
Was it obvious who the dragon was? Yes. But that did not detract from the rest of the story AT ALL.
And watching Kai’s horror at how Xiang rearranged the hoard was hilarious. And when he started to make changes specifically for Xiang and checked in on his family for him? Full heart melt!!!
Seeing how Kai adjusted to suddenly being part of a family and having people accept him and who he could depend on was so sweet and so cute. I loved every single second of it.
At first I was a little unsure about switching from the Variks to a new clan in this world, but I love them more and more with every book. But I’m starting to think we’re going to get Huli and Xiao Dan very last, and I’m wayyy to impatient for that! But also hold moly that ending with the shifter. I did *not* see that one coming.
But also dang it can we please get a break from the fae and their plots? That definitely did not end up resolving how I thought it would, and somehow it just keeps getting worst and worse. But on the bright side, I’m even more invested now!
I’ll just be waiting so very impatiently for the next book, because they’re just THAT GOOD.
I love love love this series.
I have been so excited for Xiang’s story since he was taken at the end of the last book, it *did* *not* *disappoint*
Was it obvious who the dragon was? Yes. But that did not detract from the rest of the story AT ALL.
And watching Kai’s horror at how Xiang rearranged the hoard was hilarious. And when he started to make changes specifically for Xiang and checked in on his family for him? Full heart melt!!!
Seeing how Kai adjusted to suddenly being part of a family and having people accept him and who he could depend on was so sweet and so cute. I loved every single second of it.
At first I was a little unsure about switching from the Variks to a new clan in this world, but I love them more and more with every book. But I’m starting to think we’re going to get Huli and Xiao Dan very last, and I’m wayyy to impatient for that! But also hold moly that ending with the shifter. I did *not* see that one coming.
But also dang it can we please get a break from the fae and their plots? That definitely did not end up resolving how I thought it would, and somehow it just keeps getting worst and worse. But on the bright side, I’m even more invested now!
I’ll just be waiting so very impatiently for the next book, because they’re just THAT GOOD.
June 5, 2024
This is an excellent addition to the vampire series. These books have to be read in order, they are not stand-alones.
This book is so far my favourite in the series.
Xiang is stuck, kidnapped by the dragon and hidden in the hoard, trying his utmost to avoid boredom, planning an escape and is fascinated by Kai, the dragon's servant (or so he thinks).
He is someone who could bring a saint to the brink with talking.
I love how he gets under Kai's skin, making Kai think about a life he didn't anticipate having. Slowly they are starting to become friends.
There is a lot of storyline to absorb, Kai's link to the fae and the fierce determination from Xiang to help him breaking it. The vampire clan is nothing Kai anticipates when he returns Xiang but the idea of found family is so well done in this book, the way they just adopt him and integrate Kai into it. Kai's development from a lonely dragon to a member of the clan is beautiful to read.
There is a hint of things to come about a certain cat and the fox spirit is also taken a larger role in showing who is his favourite.
I can't wait for the next book.
This book is so far my favourite in the series.
Xiang is stuck, kidnapped by the dragon and hidden in the hoard, trying his utmost to avoid boredom, planning an escape and is fascinated by Kai, the dragon's servant (or so he thinks).
He is someone who could bring a saint to the brink with talking.
I love how he gets under Kai's skin, making Kai think about a life he didn't anticipate having. Slowly they are starting to become friends.
There is a lot of storyline to absorb, Kai's link to the fae and the fierce determination from Xiang to help him breaking it. The vampire clan is nothing Kai anticipates when he returns Xiang but the idea of found family is so well done in this book, the way they just adopt him and integrate Kai into it. Kai's development from a lonely dragon to a member of the clan is beautiful to read.
There is a hint of things to come about a certain cat and the fox spirit is also taken a larger role in showing who is his favourite.
I can't wait for the next book.
June 2, 2024
More chinese vampires, both old and new, more fae, both good and bad, and now a dragon! Woven throughout with Chinese mythology, Variks, our favorite witches coven makes for such a good read. Xiang and Kai did not have a meet cute, more like a meet diaster with a side helping of mistaken kidnapping. Our MC's were not exactly honest with each other at the beginning but soon they communicate, playing weiqi, lounging in the hoard. Unfortunately they have return to Xiang's clan because the fae's are still being very bad and they have something that belongs to Kai. I love how all the sups unite to battle the bad fae. Oh, when Kai gets all dragony with "you're mine", "you are the most important part of my hoard", sigh, so good. Drake does resolve a portion of the suspense arc but boy, do we get a new villain. I can't wait for Jun Jun's story.
P.S. Another thing I love that I wish more authors would do with intricate plot lines with lots of characters is Drake gives us a cast of characters from all the various books, definitions of various Chinese terms, and mini bios. I'm too old with too many books in my brain to keep up with who is who and with whom!
P.S. Another thing I love that I wish more authors would do with intricate plot lines with lots of characters is Drake gives us a cast of characters from all the various books, definitions of various Chinese terms, and mini bios. I'm too old with too many books in my brain to keep up with who is who and with whom!
June 3, 2024
Two Thousand Blades is an amazing addition to the Kings of Chaos series and I loved everything about it. I was fully engaged from the first page to the last and I am loving this intriguing universe the author has created. This book is beautifully written, fast paced, gritty, full of action, has several interesting twists and turns, the characters are wonderful and Xiang and Kai are my favorite couple so far in this series. They are so perfect for each other and I love how their relationship evolves as they spend time together. Kai has a lot to learn about Xiang and his family as well as the modern world he finds himself him in. Xiang is determined to save Kai and will do whatever it takes to help him. Luckily they have Xiang's family and friends willing to put everything on the line to stop the fae. The ending is perfect, I love the secondary characters and I can't wait to read the next book in this incredible series.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
June 8, 2024
Two Thousand Blades is the third book in Jocelynn Drake’s Kings of Chaos series, and I was eager to dive into this one after enjoying the two prior books. In fact, I was extra excited for this one after the way the last one ended. Thus, I went into Two Thousand Blades with high hopes.
I will be entirely honest and say that Two Thousand Blades was my least favourite of the series thus far. Although important things happened toward the end of the book, this did feel a bit like a filler book. There was so much potential for power throughout this, for so many things to be done, yet I felt like everything was too soft. I expected so much more from a story involving a dragon, and it did not deliver those elements. Add in the fact that it took far too long for me to believe the relationship between the characters, and this one did not hit as hard as the prior books.
Although I did not enjoy this third book as much as I enjoyed the first two, I do remain eager for the next in the series. I remain invested in what happens and am curious to see what comes next.
I will be entirely honest and say that Two Thousand Blades was my least favourite of the series thus far. Although important things happened toward the end of the book, this did feel a bit like a filler book. There was so much potential for power throughout this, for so many things to be done, yet I felt like everything was too soft. I expected so much more from a story involving a dragon, and it did not deliver those elements. Add in the fact that it took far too long for me to believe the relationship between the characters, and this one did not hit as hard as the prior books.
Although I did not enjoy this third book as much as I enjoyed the first two, I do remain eager for the next in the series. I remain invested in what happens and am curious to see what comes next.
June 11, 2024
Two Thousand Blades picks up where the book before ended. Xiang has been captured by a dragon and finds himself confined to his hoard. There is another man there but he claims he has no name so Xiang settles on Kai as his name. Kai is the dragon’s assistant and helps keep Xiang’s boredom at bay. But Kai can only stay for a short time before Xiang gets on his nerves. The more time they spend together, that changes and the closer they get. Xiang resolves to escape and take Kai with him.
The characters in this series, Kings of Chaos, certainly do live up to their name. They love each other and will do whatever is necessary to ensure each other’s happiness. That includes adopting into the family mates. They work together, plan together, annoy each other, and take the time to help friends as well. Each story gets better and better. I am really loving this series, thanks to the author’s incredibly fertile imagination.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and this is my unbiased opinion.
The characters in this series, Kings of Chaos, certainly do live up to their name. They love each other and will do whatever is necessary to ensure each other’s happiness. That includes adopting into the family mates. They work together, plan together, annoy each other, and take the time to help friends as well. Each story gets better and better. I am really loving this series, thanks to the author’s incredibly fertile imagination.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and this is my unbiased opinion.
June 11, 2024
I absolutely adore this series! It is exciting, action-packed, angsty at times, and has the absolute best found family ever with the vampires, their mates, and friends. This book had a little slow start as Xiang finds himself the victim of a mistaken kidnapping by a dragon. Left in the dragon's hoard, his only companion is the dragon's assistant, a man who claims not to remember his name. Xiang names him Kai, and promises him a place with his clan when they escape. An astute reader already knows who Kai is, but Xiang is clueless. Over time, the two spend time together and attraction grows, so that the eventual reveal is not too dramatic. The Fae queen controls the dragon, so danger remains until he is freed. There are unexpected twists and turns, allies who aren't, old foes, and new. This is another great addition to the series, and I am impatiently waiting for book 4 later this year.
I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
May 26, 2024
Xiang and Kai story was explosive, with danger, secrets, deception and betrayal, but also teasing, love, and a loving family.
Their first encounter and experience unexpected and intense. Their situation had a layer of secrecy that made things a bit funny.
I liked the dragon and vampire pairing, the possessiveness, the hoard, and the way they learn to trust in each other.
I liked their interactions, the way truth come to light, and their banter.
I liked the action and the several twist and turns that changes things and the new challenges that arises.
I adored their sweet loving moments as well as the way they protect each other and come to learn new things about themselves.
I liked seeing old characters and the role they had in their blooming relationship, and the impact they had on the events.
I loved the story and I'm looking forward to see what happens next.
Their first encounter and experience unexpected and intense. Their situation had a layer of secrecy that made things a bit funny.
I liked the dragon and vampire pairing, the possessiveness, the hoard, and the way they learn to trust in each other.
I liked their interactions, the way truth come to light, and their banter.
I liked the action and the several twist and turns that changes things and the new challenges that arises.
I adored their sweet loving moments as well as the way they protect each other and come to learn new things about themselves.
I liked seeing old characters and the role they had in their blooming relationship, and the impact they had on the events.
I loved the story and I'm looking forward to see what happens next.
Read
June 5, 2024So this was hard for me because I hate leaving anything less than a 4 star but I had some issues with this one. The two main characters really didn’t have any personalities. Neither of these characters pasts really played a part in making them who they were in the story personality wise, so on that front they were pretty blah. Also this is just a personal preference but I like my stories to have a little more angst. Why wasn’t Xiong upset that Kai had lied about being the dragon?! I mean I know feelings were developing but that doesn’t mean Xiong shouldn’t have been upset about being kept prisoner. In fact it’s even kind of worse that Kai befriended him and yet still did not let him go. I love all the Asian elements and this series overall but this is one I could take it or leave it and it wouldn’t matter.
June 10, 2024
Xiang and Kai are amazing.
Ms. Jocelynn Drake has once again created a universe where these beautiful characters exist. They are beautiful and their storylines are full of action and family.
Xiang got kidnapped by a Dragon. He was taken to the Dragon's hoard and kept there, for his safety. But when things came to a head and Xiang witnessed how Kai almost died after being summoned by the queen, he started convincing Kai that they are better off with his clan so that they will have help in destroying the queen and the fae realm.
Xiang's clan was astonished when he brought home a Dragon, and not just any Dragon but an Imperial one.
I love Xiang and Kai, they complement each other, where one is grumpy the other is eternally optimistic, albeit annoying.
Ms. Jocelynn Drake, I adore you! Thank you so much for all these wonderful stories and characters you have created.
Ms. Jocelynn Drake has once again created a universe where these beautiful characters exist. They are beautiful and their storylines are full of action and family.
Xiang got kidnapped by a Dragon. He was taken to the Dragon's hoard and kept there, for his safety. But when things came to a head and Xiang witnessed how Kai almost died after being summoned by the queen, he started convincing Kai that they are better off with his clan so that they will have help in destroying the queen and the fae realm.
Xiang's clan was astonished when he brought home a Dragon, and not just any Dragon but an Imperial one.
I love Xiang and Kai, they complement each other, where one is grumpy the other is eternally optimistic, albeit annoying.
Ms. Jocelynn Drake, I adore you! Thank you so much for all these wonderful stories and characters you have created.
June 3, 2024
Truly enjoyable!
I had a great time reading this enthralling story! The first book was hard to get into because abuse of all the names and nicknames. Loooots of footnotes. The stories are all incredible though! Now that I understand who each person in the family is, and their nicknames, and titles, it is so much easier. I still have difficulty reading stories with Chinese names because they don’t look like they sound (to an English speaker), but that just makes me work a little harder to enjoy such a great story! I love that the Varik clan makes cameos throughout the series.
I had a great time reading this enthralling story! The first book was hard to get into because abuse of all the names and nicknames. Loooots of footnotes. The stories are all incredible though! Now that I understand who each person in the family is, and their nicknames, and titles, it is so much easier. I still have difficulty reading stories with Chinese names because they don’t look like they sound (to an English speaker), but that just makes me work a little harder to enjoy such a great story! I love that the Varik clan makes cameos throughout the series.
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