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Perilous Courts #5
Prince and Betrothed
Being claimed shouldn't feel so lonely.
Sei's power isn't truly his. As a grail, his role is to serve a mage by augmenting their magic. He's equally nervous and excited about his arranged betrothal. After a life without intimacy, Sei will finally fulfill his true purpose as a treasured, valuable grail.
There's only one problem: Sei's new betrothed is the legendary Marek Dire. The dragonrider prince is powerful, intimidating, and larger than life—or at least larger than Sei. Prince Marek doesn't want a husband, especially one like this. Sei might be captivating, but he's also too delicate and obedient. Marek vows to break the betrothal, and he refuses to use Sei as a grail. No matter how much Sei wants to be used.
But Marek underestimates Sei. Wielding kindness as a weapon, Sei discovers unexpected tenderness in Marek—and new fierceness in himself. But being a grail in power-hungry Draskora is dangerous, and Marek still fears two things. That someone else might hurt Sei...
…or that Marek himself will.
Prince and Betrothed is a high fantasy gay romance with an arranged marriage, dragons, and shameless displays of affection. The Perilous Courts series is best enjoyed in order, and Prince and Betrothed continues the three-book arc about the princes of Draskora.
Sei's power isn't truly his. As a grail, his role is to serve a mage by augmenting their magic. He's equally nervous and excited about his arranged betrothal. After a life without intimacy, Sei will finally fulfill his true purpose as a treasured, valuable grail.
There's only one problem: Sei's new betrothed is the legendary Marek Dire. The dragonrider prince is powerful, intimidating, and larger than life—or at least larger than Sei. Prince Marek doesn't want a husband, especially one like this. Sei might be captivating, but he's also too delicate and obedient. Marek vows to break the betrothal, and he refuses to use Sei as a grail. No matter how much Sei wants to be used.
But Marek underestimates Sei. Wielding kindness as a weapon, Sei discovers unexpected tenderness in Marek—and new fierceness in himself. But being a grail in power-hungry Draskora is dangerous, and Marek still fears two things. That someone else might hurt Sei...
…or that Marek himself will.
Prince and Betrothed is a high fantasy gay romance with an arranged marriage, dragons, and shameless displays of affection. The Perilous Courts series is best enjoyed in order, and Prince and Betrothed continues the three-book arc about the princes of Draskora.
9 pages, Audible Audio
First published October 25, 2023
144 people are currently reading
963 people want to read
About the author
Tavia Lark
29 books785 followersTavia Lark writes m/m fantasy romance and erotica. Her favorite romance tropes include hurt/comfort, sharing a bed, and enemies to lovers. She writes from a sunny little apartment with the constant "help" of her fluffy cat. He just really likes typing, okay.
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Join Tavia's mailing list for announcements about new books (plus a free story!):
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Plus, there's a Facebook group!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 225 reviews
October 22, 2023
The good
+ Fellcat!
+ Actual groveling. Marek fucked up, and he properly groveled for Sei's forgiveness
+ Marek's complete commitment when he finally chose Sei
+ Sei making friends everywhere
+ Sei standing up for himself when Marek got on his last nerve
+ Lots of dragon riding content
+ Their nicknames for each other
+
The neutral
o I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. My review remains honest and unbiased
o Sei hadn't been touched affectionately for years, making him incredibly starved for touch. Right? This was not used in the story at all! The best trope, right there for the taking, and nothing was done with it at all :(
The bad
- The main conflict between Marek and Sei was resolved in a way that didn't resolve anything at all.
- Sei grew up as a subject to an abusive organization, and it was hardly acknowledged at all. Marek made one or two remarks about it, but Sei's trauma or the existence of the organization itself were left unaddressed
- I read the previous four books in the series whenever they came out. Apparently this is too long ago, because the plot was really hard to follow. I really would have liked a few more reminders of things that had happened in previous books, and explanations for actions
- So many things were happening, that nothing felt like it was properly resolved. There were just too many loose threads and plots going on. Vana's disappearance was hardly mentioned and seemed to come to a strange resolution; Marek's father had an evil plan and Marek just went along with everything; Julian and Whisper showed up and nothing really happened (what was that visit for, anyway?); there was a big evil invention but nobody explained what it was; etcetera. I would have preferred fewer plotlines if that meant they would have been handled properly
- Marek just follows along with his dad's evil plans??? I thought he was supposed to be a good guy, but he just goes along with everything. His character was not explained well enough to justify this behavior
Quotes
I really enjoyed all of the books in the series so far, but I really lost track of the plot now. I had trouble understanding what was going on, and it felt like so many things were happening simultaneously and nothing was given the right amount of attention. I also think Sei deserved a proper (second) apology from Marek, because he tried to deny part of Sei's nature. This book is not bad, it's just not good either, especially compared to the other books in the series. I hope the final installment will clear things up for me.
+ Fellcat!
+ Actual groveling. Marek fucked up, and he properly groveled for Sei's forgiveness
+ Marek's complete commitment when he finally chose Sei
+ Sei making friends everywhere
+ Sei standing up for himself when Marek got on his last nerve
+ Lots of dragon riding content
+ Their nicknames for each other
+
The neutral
o I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. My review remains honest and unbiased
o Sei hadn't been touched affectionately for years, making him incredibly starved for touch. Right? This was not used in the story at all! The best trope, right there for the taking, and nothing was done with it at all :(
The bad
- The main conflict between Marek and Sei was resolved in a way that didn't resolve anything at all.
- Sei grew up as a subject to an abusive organization, and it was hardly acknowledged at all. Marek made one or two remarks about it, but Sei's trauma or the existence of the organization itself were left unaddressed
- I read the previous four books in the series whenever they came out. Apparently this is too long ago, because the plot was really hard to follow. I really would have liked a few more reminders of things that had happened in previous books, and explanations for actions
- So many things were happening, that nothing felt like it was properly resolved. There were just too many loose threads and plots going on. Vana's disappearance was hardly mentioned and seemed to come to a strange resolution; Marek's father had an evil plan and Marek just went along with everything; Julian and Whisper showed up and nothing really happened (what was that visit for, anyway?); there was a big evil invention but nobody explained what it was; etcetera. I would have preferred fewer plotlines if that meant they would have been handled properly
- Marek just follows along with his dad's evil plans??? I thought he was supposed to be a good guy, but he just goes along with everything. His character was not explained well enough to justify this behavior
Quotes
New rule, Loska says. No fornicating on the dragon.
"What if Radovan or someone annoys Osric, and he eats them?"
"Is that a problem? You told me Osric didn't eat people, and I thought fellcats were tame."
"They're not tame, they're civilized."
"I'm sure everything will be fine. Besides, as long as Osric only partly eats Radovan, the blood healers will be able to put him back together."
I really enjoyed all of the books in the series so far, but I really lost track of the plot now. I had trouble understanding what was going on, and it felt like so many things were happening simultaneously and nothing was given the right amount of attention. I also think Sei deserved a proper (second) apology from Marek, because he tried to deny part of Sei's nature. This book is not bad, it's just not good either, especially compared to the other books in the series. I hope the final installment will clear things up for me.
October 27, 2023
This was, sadly, underwhelming for me.
Now, I admit, nothing about Marek in the previous book drew me in, so I wasn’t necessarily excited for his book. But it’s also arranged marriage trope, which I love. My expectations of what Tavia Lark could do with this trope was sadly not the reality.
Unfortunately, Marek continued to be very ‘meh’ for me. I, personally, find him to be the blandest MC Tavia has written. He coulda been a himbo! Or, you know, had any kind of personality.
Sei was great though. I could have happily just read about Sei, forget the romance and the court intrigue.
Kazia is Best Boy. So, I was very pleased to see more of him.
And my favourite pair had a cameo — the ugly dragon statues Kazia stole from Vana.
Okay, I lie, it was Whisper and Julian. I do like the mention of the statues though.
As far as the romance, I think there was a lot of wasted potential. Sei mentions a few times the lack of touch, or intimacy in general, that they have at the guild. Hello?! Touch starved! But nothing is really done with that. And while Marek spends a lot of time avoiding Sei, that’s just mostly something we are told about while the timeline makes 2 week jumps. I wanted to see more of Sei alone. Arranged marriage tropes are so good because of the neglect, isolation, and Sad Boy TM potential… and that potential was wasted.
And in regard to the pet names. I don’t care for them in general (unless accompanied by a heavy dose of praise). I didn’t like Sei’s petname for Marek. But I actually really hated Marek’s for Sei. He started using it as a negative analogy for Sei and how he was trained as a grail, started using it as a term of endearment, but then went back to thinking of it as a negative thing, before once more breaking it out as a term of endearment. I didn’t think it was cute. I thought it was a little bit heartbreaking, honestly. And I don’t think Marek ever really acknowledged that being a grail isn’t what Sei does, it’s who he is, it’s a part of what makes Sei, Sei.
As for all the court intrigue stuff… I think if I cared about trying to follow the 2 million strands of plot this has going on, I’d be lost. But, I felt in the last book there wasn’t a high enough page count for the plot, and I continued with that thought in this book. So, while I vaguely remembered elements, I forgot how they connected… but also didn’t care because I am dubious that it’s not going to be highly convoluted or full of loose ends (or both) when all is said and done.
The Dire kingdom has proven to be in dire need of more pages or less plot to have a better balance of romance and plot. I would personally prefer less plot, more tropes. But instead, we just keep getting layer after layer.
But, next book is Kazia!!!! Hopefully I’ll have better luck there.
Now, I admit, nothing about Marek in the previous book drew me in, so I wasn’t necessarily excited for his book. But it’s also arranged marriage trope, which I love. My expectations of what Tavia Lark could do with this trope was sadly not the reality.
Unfortunately, Marek continued to be very ‘meh’ for me. I, personally, find him to be the blandest MC Tavia has written. He coulda been a himbo! Or, you know, had any kind of personality.
Sei was great though. I could have happily just read about Sei, forget the romance and the court intrigue.
Kazia is Best Boy. So, I was very pleased to see more of him.
And my favourite pair had a cameo — the ugly dragon statues Kazia stole from Vana.
Okay, I lie, it was Whisper and Julian. I do like the mention of the statues though.
As far as the romance, I think there was a lot of wasted potential. Sei mentions a few times the lack of touch, or intimacy in general, that they have at the guild. Hello?! Touch starved! But nothing is really done with that. And while Marek spends a lot of time avoiding Sei, that’s just mostly something we are told about while the timeline makes 2 week jumps. I wanted to see more of Sei alone. Arranged marriage tropes are so good because of the neglect, isolation, and Sad Boy TM potential… and that potential was wasted.
And in regard to the pet names. I don’t care for them in general (unless accompanied by a heavy dose of praise). I didn’t like Sei’s petname for Marek. But I actually really hated Marek’s for Sei. He started using it as a negative analogy for Sei and how he was trained as a grail, started using it as a term of endearment, but then went back to thinking of it as a negative thing, before once more breaking it out as a term of endearment. I didn’t think it was cute. I thought it was a little bit heartbreaking, honestly. And I don’t think Marek ever really acknowledged that being a grail isn’t what Sei does, it’s who he is, it’s a part of what makes Sei, Sei.
As for all the court intrigue stuff… I think if I cared about trying to follow the 2 million strands of plot this has going on, I’d be lost. But, I felt in the last book there wasn’t a high enough page count for the plot, and I continued with that thought in this book. So, while I vaguely remembered elements, I forgot how they connected… but also didn’t care because I am dubious that it’s not going to be highly convoluted or full of loose ends (or both) when all is said and done.
The Dire kingdom has proven to be in dire need of more pages or less plot to have a better balance of romance and plot. I would personally prefer less plot, more tropes. But instead, we just keep getting layer after layer.
But, next book is Kazia!!!! Hopefully I’ll have better luck there.
December 19, 2023
2.5
Reseña breve: quinto libro de esta saga y segundo del este arco. La verdad es que para ser sincera no ha sido plato de mi gusto. En parte lo medio presentía porque el anterior libro me había encantado y este le tenía demasiadas expectativas. Una pena, ya que los personajes por separado me caían bien, sin embargo, aparte de que me faltó mucho desarrollo no sentía que tuviesen mucha química entre ellos.
Bueno, solo queda el último y tengo fe.
Reseña breve: quinto libro de esta saga y segundo del este arco. La verdad es que para ser sincera no ha sido plato de mi gusto. En parte lo medio presentía porque el anterior libro me había encantado y este le tenía demasiadas expectativas. Una pena, ya que los personajes por separado me caían bien, sin embargo, aparte de que me faltó mucho desarrollo no sentía que tuviesen mucha química entre ellos.
Bueno, solo queda el último y tengo fe.
October 28, 2023
It was OK, but something about this one didn't quite work for me as well as I'd have liked. I thought Sei made for an interesting character, and I actually think the author made some choices there that made Sei in particular feel like a fresh take on what is a fairly common type of trope, but it didn't totally work for me. I never felt like the author quite nailed the nuance and balance of Sei's character, so he felt a little confusing in inconsistent for me in some of his actions/reactions. Marek was fine, but kind of bland, and it felt like so much of their relationship and interactions was really shallow--I never really felt or saw evidence of the deeper connection they supposedly share. This one also felt much heavier on the background/overall plot, but in a confusing/distracting way....
October 30, 2023
3.5 Stars
The first half was a bit slow with Merek refusing to get out of his own way and Sei fretting about it, but things picked up after that and I find I'm looking forward to seeing how this story arc wraps up.
The first half was a bit slow with Merek refusing to get out of his own way and Sei fretting about it, but things picked up after that and I find I'm looking forward to seeing how this story arc wraps up.
November 1, 2025
I liked this one even more than the last one as far as the plot, character development, and romance. I still feel like Tavia is holding back, and things felt... maybe a little rushed? Especially towards the end. But still very good.
October 27, 2023
I'm really hoping all the missing plot elements will be answered in the next book, because man oh man is this plot being held up by a string. But I'm too far invested now, lol.
I really liked Sei's growth arc from a grail to a person, and Marek was an idiot, but in an overprotective and endearing way. Loved loved loooooved the dragon and fellcat bantering/bickering going on. Electrocution/sex with some lightning was a new and fun one. Good for them.
I'm just closing my eyes to all the ???? things that didn't add up or answers we never got, and going off vibes. This world is enjoyable, I love seeing other cameos from past characters. I'm hoping the next book has everything click together. I'm glad there's more animal chaos going on in this.
I really liked Sei's growth arc from a grail to a person, and Marek was an idiot, but in an overprotective and endearing way. Loved loved loooooved the dragon and fellcat bantering/bickering going on. Electrocution/sex with some lightning was a new and fun one. Good for them.
I'm just closing my eyes to all the ???? things that didn't add up or answers we never got, and going off vibes. This world is enjoyable, I love seeing other cameos from past characters. I'm hoping the next book has everything click together. I'm glad there's more animal chaos going on in this.
October 30, 2023
The arranged marriage part was excellent. Loved both MCs and their relationship development.
The overarching plot is chaotic, I only read the previous book in the series, and I'm not sure where the story goes.
The overarching plot is chaotic, I only read the previous book in the series, and I'm not sure where the story goes.
October 22, 2023
"Prince and Betrothed" was an absolute joy to read. I loved this book so, so much.
I know I say this about every Tavia Lark novel, but I swear, everything she writes seems to be tailored perfectly to my every taste and whim and preference.
And this fifth book in her "Perilous Courts" series is yet another example. I freaking adored every single minute I got to spend in this wonderful, complex, dangerous, magical world, and with its two unforgettable protagonists.
Marek and Sei were AMAZING characters. Both of them have their flaws, sure, but I loved them to bits, and I loved their chemistry and every single one of their interactions even more.
I've been curious about grails since the very first time that particular concept appeared in this series; so when Tavia Lark announced Marek's love interest was going to be a grail, I was ECSTATIC. I was excited to see how she would handle that particular type of character, since grails and power-sharing were both such a controversial subject in the previous books. And she did not disappoint.
Sei's a fantastic protagonist, and his growth is even more impressive. He's gentle and pleasant and nice, but he also learns how to become his own person, his own powerful, competent man, without ever rejecting and compromising his principles and his ideals and his wishes.
And Marek! God, he must be the stubbornest character Tavia Lark has ever created. He's so damned pig-headed, a floundering, gorgeous idiot who doesn't seem to think things through, but he's also patient and strong and competent and good, and actually, maybe, the sexiest character Tavia Lark has ever created too. God, I loved him, and I loved his character arc so much.
And their relationship! I was obsessed. Miscommunication and stubborness aside, their dynamic was absolute fire. And their chemistry was freaking incredible. Their journey to love is pretty much slow-burn, but the protectiveness, especially from Marek's side, and the simmering attraction is there from the start.
< “I want you to kiss me,” Marek says instead. “Show me what you’ve learned, teacup.” >
Every single one of their interactions are unforgettable, and their scenes together equally so: funny, lovable, sweet, hot... I loved every single second I got to spend with them. The more they got comfortable with one another, the more I fell in love with them, both as individuals and as a couple.
The side characters were also incredible; and Loska and Osric stole the damned show. I love those two so much! Where does one go about acquiring a giant, murderous, mischievous, magical cat and an eternally love-sick, hilarious and lovable dragon? I need to know.
The world-building was majestic and complex and magical as usual; and the plot kept me hooked from the start.
This book is mostly about Marek and Sei's relationship, but the underlying plot is developed a fair bit, and it's fraught with twists and turns, political upheavals, discoveries and betrayals. I have a feeling the next book is going to destroy my heart, because oh god, that finale! What will happen?! *stomps feet in frustration*
Also, I'm dying to talk to somebody about Kazia. I'd seriously sell some non-vital organs (and maybe a few vital ones too) to have his book in my greedy hands. I have a very ominous feeling about some stuff that has happened, and my heart already can't take it. I'm certain that little, lonely brat will steal my soul: I can't wait to discover what's behind his cruel, childish mask.
So yes, Tavia Lark's latest masterpiece is an absolute joy to devour. I wholly recommend this series to any lover of high-fantasy, but especially if you're looking for magical world-buildings, heart-stopping romance, a boatload of touch-starved sweethearts, protective love interests, hurt/comfort and all the best tropes your heart could wish for.
I'm so damned excited for the next book, but in the meantime, I think I'll have to re-read these books from the start.
Thank you Tavia Lark for the ARC. I received it in exchange for an honest review.
I know I say this about every Tavia Lark novel, but I swear, everything she writes seems to be tailored perfectly to my every taste and whim and preference.
And this fifth book in her "Perilous Courts" series is yet another example. I freaking adored every single minute I got to spend in this wonderful, complex, dangerous, magical world, and with its two unforgettable protagonists.
Marek and Sei were AMAZING characters. Both of them have their flaws, sure, but I loved them to bits, and I loved their chemistry and every single one of their interactions even more.
I've been curious about grails since the very first time that particular concept appeared in this series; so when Tavia Lark announced Marek's love interest was going to be a grail, I was ECSTATIC. I was excited to see how she would handle that particular type of character, since grails and power-sharing were both such a controversial subject in the previous books. And she did not disappoint.
Sei's a fantastic protagonist, and his growth is even more impressive. He's gentle and pleasant and nice, but he also learns how to become his own person, his own powerful, competent man, without ever rejecting and compromising his principles and his ideals and his wishes.
And Marek! God, he must be the stubbornest character Tavia Lark has ever created. He's so damned pig-headed, a floundering, gorgeous idiot who doesn't seem to think things through, but he's also patient and strong and competent and good, and actually, maybe, the sexiest character Tavia Lark has ever created too. God, I loved him, and I loved his character arc so much.
And their relationship! I was obsessed. Miscommunication and stubborness aside, their dynamic was absolute fire. And their chemistry was freaking incredible. Their journey to love is pretty much slow-burn, but the protectiveness, especially from Marek's side, and the simmering attraction is there from the start.
< “I want you to kiss me,” Marek says instead. “Show me what you’ve learned, teacup.” >
Every single one of their interactions are unforgettable, and their scenes together equally so: funny, lovable, sweet, hot... I loved every single second I got to spend with them. The more they got comfortable with one another, the more I fell in love with them, both as individuals and as a couple.
The side characters were also incredible; and Loska and Osric stole the damned show. I love those two so much! Where does one go about acquiring a giant, murderous, mischievous, magical cat and an eternally love-sick, hilarious and lovable dragon? I need to know.
The world-building was majestic and complex and magical as usual; and the plot kept me hooked from the start.
This book is mostly about Marek and Sei's relationship, but the underlying plot is developed a fair bit, and it's fraught with twists and turns, political upheavals, discoveries and betrayals. I have a feeling the next book is going to destroy my heart, because oh god, that finale! What will happen?! *stomps feet in frustration*
Also, I'm dying to talk to somebody about Kazia. I'd seriously sell some non-vital organs (and maybe a few vital ones too) to have his book in my greedy hands. I have a very ominous feeling about some stuff that has happened, and my heart already can't take it. I'm certain that little, lonely brat will steal my soul: I can't wait to discover what's behind his cruel, childish mask.
So yes, Tavia Lark's latest masterpiece is an absolute joy to devour. I wholly recommend this series to any lover of high-fantasy, but especially if you're looking for magical world-buildings, heart-stopping romance, a boatload of touch-starved sweethearts, protective love interests, hurt/comfort and all the best tropes your heart could wish for.
I'm so damned excited for the next book, but in the meantime, I think I'll have to re-read these books from the start.
Thank you Tavia Lark for the ARC. I received it in exchange for an honest review.
dnf
November 8, 2023i fear i should have seen this coming after the last book….. dnf @ 65%
i tried really hard but y’allllll……o m g the chemistry is nonexistent!!!!!!!!!😭😭😭😭😭 their first kiss gave me all the emotion of watching paint dry…..and both mmcs were giving all the personality of drywall…..to quote HSM 🎶this is not what i wanted….this is not what i planned…..and i just got to sayyyy, i do not understand🎶 😣😣😣😣 unforch, i might be forced to finish this in the future as i forsee not learning my lesson and reading the next book…..sigh…
i tried really hard but y’allllll……o m g the chemistry is nonexistent!!!!!!!!!😭😭😭😭😭 their first kiss gave me all the emotion of watching paint dry…..and both mmcs were giving all the personality of drywall…..to quote HSM 🎶this is not what i wanted….this is not what i planned…..and i just got to sayyyy, i do not understand🎶 😣😣😣😣 unforch, i might be forced to finish this in the future as i forsee not learning my lesson and reading the next book…..sigh…
December 4, 2023
I suspect that the fact that this is an ongoing series is one of the reasons why this loses points in the fantasy aspect for me. That along with my supposedly never-ending beef with fantasy writers. So many plot points, not enough time: is how I would describe the Dire dynasty. Although in my opinion, this book barely had any plot advancements(when compared with the previous). And although there were only four months between the release of this book and the previous one, it was enough time for me to forget all the convoluted family drama.
An advantage of this is that I came into this installment with a slightly fresh perspective. I loved the character Sei! He was the ray of sunshine needed to brighten this dark court. I definitely despised the moments his betrothed caused him to fret and spiral.
And even though Kazia annoys me to no end, I cant wait to read his book. I really want to understand his motivations.
An advantage of this is that I came into this installment with a slightly fresh perspective. I loved the character Sei! He was the ray of sunshine needed to brighten this dark court. I definitely despised the moments his betrothed caused him to fret and spiral.
And even though Kazia annoys me to no end, I cant wait to read his book. I really want to understand his motivations.
November 5, 2023
This pains me to say since I've been a Tavia Lark stan since day 1, but this book was kinda boring. Or at least if felt like some key ingredient was missing, so instead of the rich, sexy, complex and banter-filled romances we usually get, here we got something that was a little lost and watered-down.
This story picks up in the immediate aftermath of the previous book, with prince Vana going AWOL while his betrothed in on the way from Fellrin. Marek, dragon-corps commander and second prince of Draskora, now has to step up and accept the proposal on behalf of his country. The book starts with Marek being furious and stubborn about the upcoming nuptials, while his fiance, Sei, tries very hard to be inoffensive and likable. Sei is a sweet, but ultimately colourless character. He is a grail, a magical being of immense power who is unable to access his own magic, so he acts as a magical reservoir for mages. The two MCs end up occupying each other's space and eventually acknowledge their feelings for each other in a very slow-burn kinda way. I wasn't buying it, the chemistry felt forced, and the sex was boring and scanty. I'm also not sure how this book advances the plot, but I'm sure we'll find out in book 6.
Although not a terrible book by any standards, it was a disappointment for me because I had such high expectations. The highlights for me were Osric the fellcat and Loska the dragon, anything else I could kind of take or leave. Anyway, here's hoping the final book in the series ends with a bang.
This story picks up in the immediate aftermath of the previous book, with prince Vana going AWOL while his betrothed in on the way from Fellrin. Marek, dragon-corps commander and second prince of Draskora, now has to step up and accept the proposal on behalf of his country. The book starts with Marek being furious and stubborn about the upcoming nuptials, while his fiance, Sei, tries very hard to be inoffensive and likable. Sei is a sweet, but ultimately colourless character. He is a grail, a magical being of immense power who is unable to access his own magic, so he acts as a magical reservoir for mages. The two MCs end up occupying each other's space and eventually acknowledge their feelings for each other in a very slow-burn kinda way. I wasn't buying it, the chemistry felt forced, and the sex was boring and scanty. I'm also not sure how this book advances the plot, but I'm sure we'll find out in book 6.
Although not a terrible book by any standards, it was a disappointment for me because I had such high expectations. The highlights for me were Osric the fellcat and Loska the dragon, anything else I could kind of take or leave. Anyway, here's hoping the final book in the series ends with a bang.
September 28, 2024
This is so so good❤️🐉
Both narrators performances are spot on and the characters and story come to life.
Those two are PERFECT for each other and I can't wait to start the last book.
Great series!
Both narrators performances are spot on and the characters and story come to life.
Those two are PERFECT for each other and I can't wait to start the last book.
Great series!
October 31, 2023
I wasn't too satisfied with the previous two books in Perilous Courts series - Audric/Corin and Vana/Daromir books. This one, I loved!
I loved it for being rather slow burn romance - Sei wasn't Marek's intended betrothal, so he basically avoided Sei, and it took time for the relationship to develop.
Also, I loved it for Sei ... because as much as he started the book as someone accepting his fate, to be a grail to a mage, he grew spine in my opinion. Sei determined to make the relationship work and demanded answers and explanations from Marek about his avoidance. I was practically shouting, "Yes, you GO Sei!" (silently at heart, LOL) when Sei did that.
While yes, the whole plan of the King and upcoming war, and other conspiracy behind that started in few books ago wasn't completely moving forward here, but I didn't really mind. I am sure there will be answers in Kezia's book. I enjoyed being with these characters too much - which includes the dragon Loska and the fellrin cat Osric.
AND, my favorite Perilous Courts couple so far, Julien and Whisper made came appearance! YAY Julien and Whisper!!
I loved it for being rather slow burn romance - Sei wasn't Marek's intended betrothal, so he basically avoided Sei, and it took time for the relationship to develop.
Also, I loved it for Sei ... because as much as he started the book as someone accepting his fate, to be a grail to a mage, he grew spine in my opinion. Sei determined to make the relationship work and demanded answers and explanations from Marek about his avoidance. I was practically shouting, "Yes, you GO Sei!" (silently at heart, LOL) when Sei did that.
While yes, the whole plan of the King and upcoming war, and other conspiracy behind that started in few books ago wasn't completely moving forward here, but I didn't really mind. I am sure there will be answers in Kezia's book. I enjoyed being with these characters too much - which includes the dragon Loska and the fellrin cat Osric.
AND, my favorite Perilous Courts couple so far, Julien and Whisper made came appearance! YAY Julien and Whisper!!
March 6, 2024
I really enjoyed this, as I have all the other books in this series, but there was a lot of wasted potential here that never came to fruition.
I really enjoyed Sei, even if the initial description of him was very Lord Farquaad (silly black hair cropped at a sharp angle just below his jaw with equally sharp bangs that hit his brow). I enjoyed the relationship development with Marek, who was admittedly dull. As usual, I enjoyed the political plot. There was a great apology scene from Marek, thankfully, which I also really liked.
I was confused when Marek just accepted his dad’s evil plans at the end though…he talks about dreading what he’s about to say but when the King makes his announcement he’s just like “huh…ya okay let’s go get ready Sei!”
My lack of 5 stars comes from what was missing. Sei was a heavily sheltered, touch-starved, affection-starved virgin and that never really went anywhere? Marek’s ability to increase pleasure during sex with his magic was barely used…some things just felt unfinished. I felt like this book came off more rushed than the rest.
I still really enjoyed this and read it in a day, but it was missing some of the shine of the others.
I really enjoyed Sei, even if the initial description of him was very Lord Farquaad (silly black hair cropped at a sharp angle just below his jaw with equally sharp bangs that hit his brow). I enjoyed the relationship development with Marek, who was admittedly dull. As usual, I enjoyed the political plot. There was a great apology scene from Marek, thankfully, which I also really liked.
I was confused when Marek just accepted his dad’s evil plans at the end though…he talks about dreading what he’s about to say but when the King makes his announcement he’s just like “huh…ya okay let’s go get ready Sei!”
My lack of 5 stars comes from what was missing. Sei was a heavily sheltered, touch-starved, affection-starved virgin and that never really went anywhere? Marek’s ability to increase pleasure during sex with his magic was barely used…some things just felt unfinished. I felt like this book came off more rushed than the rest.
I still really enjoyed this and read it in a day, but it was missing some of the shine of the others.
October 28, 2023
Tavia Lark is so good at getting me to feel for characters quickly, and this book was no exception. I love how she creates situations where the characters hurt each other despite having good intentions – it feels very real, and makes their differences ones you can believe they’d overcome. I continue to enjoy the Perilous Courts world and all of the creative magic, too.
However, like the other books in this series, especially the last one, I continue to feel like there’s too much plot and worldbuilding to fit in 200 pages, so I’m always left wishing things had been given more room to develop. In particular, I wish the book let the characters sit with their hurt feelings longer, so the resolution would feel more hard-won and therefore satisfying. Many of the obstacles didn’t feel particularly challenging because of how quickly they were overcome.
Despite that complaint, though, I really enjoyed this book. It also has me eagerly awaiting book 6, which is not something I was feeling after book 4 when book 6’s prince was introduced. But now I must know his story as soon as possible!
However, like the other books in this series, especially the last one, I continue to feel like there’s too much plot and worldbuilding to fit in 200 pages, so I’m always left wishing things had been given more room to develop. In particular, I wish the book let the characters sit with their hurt feelings longer, so the resolution would feel more hard-won and therefore satisfying. Many of the obstacles didn’t feel particularly challenging because of how quickly they were overcome.
Despite that complaint, though, I really enjoyed this book. It also has me eagerly awaiting book 6, which is not something I was feeling after book 4 when book 6’s prince was introduced. But now I must know his story as soon as possible!
November 13, 2024
˗ˏˋ ꒰ 𝟓/𝟓 ★ ꒱ ˎˊ˗
this was such a fun read!!! Sei & Marek were so cute!!🥹🫶🫂 especially Sei who was a precious ray of sunshine, such a sweet mage who wanted to be useful & used - which made his character refreshing!!?? like sure he was innocent-like, and like a sweet angel😇 but the way he approached things with such a brave & kind heart, befriending everyone, even the staff/servants at the castle, while being confident in his grail power & freely giving it & himself to Marek made him a powerful character! & he was also sassy(!!??) while being an innocent bean😇🥺🤭
Marek was a precious character as well in his own way, he was so careful of Sei & tried fighting his attraction & feelings to avoid hurting Sei🥺 his character development was beautiful to witness, to see a strong character accept help & the fact that it's okay to lean on others! i loved how Sei grew more confident & into his own person, & how Marek's view of grails & power-sharing developed as their love & trust for each other grew too💞
i adore the magical creatures in this world, Osric the fellcat who appeared in the previous book too was an important side character here & i was so glad Sei had him in this new unfamiliar place, Osric was a great support & friend to Sei🥺🐅
Loska was also a fun animal companion to Marek specifically, i loved their dragon-rider bond✨ & how Marek flew with Sei🥰🐉
Kazia, Marek's younger (adopted) brother, shined much in this book, he was intriguing in the previous book too but now he really got my attention!! Kazia & Sei's relationship was fun but also sweet at the same time, they were like fire & ice with Kazia being a sassy brat causing trouble wherever he could & Sei being the calm kindhearted angel that he always was💞🤭
there were some action with little twists & turns that kept me glued to my book, also the political/court's schemes were very much plotting, lots of things got revealed but there are still more to come ik!! the wedding guests were especially a nice surprise, i loved the lil' cameos of the Sandry princes & their loves👀🥰😭💞💞💞
➥ ᴍᴍ
➥ ᴛʜɪʀᴅ-ᴘᴇʀsᴏɴ, ᴅᴜᴀʟ ᴘᴏᴠ
𓆩 𓆪 ʜɪɢʜ ғᴀɴᴛᴀsʏ
𓆩 𓆪 ᴅʀᴀɢᴏɴ-ʀɪᴅᴇʀ ᴍᴄ
𓆩 𓆪 ᴍᴀɢɪᴄ, ᴍᴀɢᴇs, ɢʀᴀɪʟs, ᴘᴏᴡᴇʀ sʜᴀʀɪɴɢ
𓆩 𓆪 ᴀʀʀᴀɴɢᴇᴅ ᴍᴀʀʀɪᴀɢᴇ
𓆩 𓆪 ᴛᴏᴜᴄʜ sᴛᴀʀᴠᴇᴅ ᴍᴄ
𓆩 𓆪 sɪᴢᴇ ᴅɪғғᴇʀᴇɴᴄᴇ
𓆩 𓆪 ғɪʀsᴛ ᴛɪᴍᴇs
𓆩 𓆪 ʟɪᴛᴛʟᴇ (ᴍᴀɢɪᴄᴀʟ) ᴇʟᴇᴄᴛʀɪᴄɪᴛʏ ᴘʟᴀʏ
𓆩 𓆪 sᴇʀɪᴇs sʜᴏᴜʟᴅ ʙᴇ ʀᴇᴀᴅ ɪɴ ᴏʀᴅᴇʀ
➽ ᴛᴡ: ᴠɪᴏʟᴇɴᴄᴇ, ᴅᴇᴀᴛʜ, ᴅʀᴀɢᴏɴ ᴇᴀᴛɪɴɢ (ʙᴀᴅ) ʜᴜᴍᴀɴ, ʙʟᴏᴏᴅ, ᴘᴀsᴛ ᴇᴍᴏᴛɪᴏɴᴀʟ ɴᴇɢʟᴇᴄᴛ, ᴋɪᴅɴᴀᴘᴘɪɴɢ, ᴍᴀɢɪᴄᴀʟ ᴄᴏɴᴛʀᴏʟ ᴏᴠᴇʀ ʙᴏᴅʏ ᴍᴏᴠᴇᴍᴇɴᴛs (ᴅᴏɴᴇ ʙʏ sᴄ ᴛᴏ ᴍᴄ, ɴᴏɴ-ᴄᴏɴ, ɴᴏᴛ sᴇxᴜᴀʟ), ᴍᴇɴᴛɪᴏɴs ᴏғ sᴛᴀɢᴇᴅ sᴜɪᴄɪᴅᴇ (ʜᴀᴘᴘᴇɴᴇᴅ ɪɴ ᴛʜᴇ ᴘʀᴇᴠɪᴏᴜs ʙᴏᴏᴋ)
this was such a fun read!!! Sei & Marek were so cute!!🥹🫶🫂 especially Sei who was a precious ray of sunshine, such a sweet mage who wanted to be useful & used - which made his character refreshing!!?? like sure he was innocent-like, and like a sweet angel😇 but the way he approached things with such a brave & kind heart, befriending everyone, even the staff/servants at the castle, while being confident in his grail power & freely giving it & himself to Marek made him a powerful character! & he was also sassy(!!??) while being an innocent bean😇🥺🤭
❝ 𝑴𝒂𝒓𝒆𝒌 𝒍𝒐𝒐𝒌𝒔 𝑺𝒆𝒊 𝒖𝒑 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒅𝒐𝒘𝒏, 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝒆𝒙𝒉𝒂𝒍𝒆𝒔. “𝒀𝒐𝒖’𝒓𝒆 𝒔𝒄𝒂𝒓𝒆𝒅 𝒐𝒇 𝒎𝒆. 𝑻𝒉𝒂𝒕’𝒔 𝒏𝒐𝒕 𝒘𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝑰 𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒅.”
𝑭𝒖𝒄𝒌. 𝑺𝒆𝒊 𝒊𝒔 𝒂𝒍𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒚 𝒎𝒆𝒔𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒖𝒑. 𝑯𝒆 𝒇𝒐𝒓𝒄𝒆𝒔 𝒂 𝒇𝒓𝒊𝒆𝒏𝒅𝒍𝒚 𝒔𝒎𝒊𝒍𝒆. “𝑷𝒍𝒆𝒂𝒔𝒆 𝒂𝒄𝒄𝒆𝒑𝒕 𝒎𝒚 𝒂𝒑𝒐𝒍𝒐𝒈𝒊𝒆𝒔, 𝒀𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝑯𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒔. 𝑰 𝒘𝒐𝒏'𝒕 𝒃𝒆 𝒔𝒄𝒂𝒓𝒆𝒅 𝒐𝒇 𝒚𝒐𝒖.” ❞
Marek was a precious character as well in his own way, he was so careful of Sei & tried fighting his attraction & feelings to avoid hurting Sei🥺 his character development was beautiful to witness, to see a strong character accept help & the fact that it's okay to lean on others! i loved how Sei grew more confident & into his own person, & how Marek's view of grails & power-sharing developed as their love & trust for each other grew too💞
❝ 𝑾𝒂𝒓𝒎𝒕𝒉 𝒔𝒑𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒓𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒉 𝑺𝒆𝒊’𝒔 𝒗𝒆𝒊𝒏𝒔. 𝑰𝒏𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒂𝒅 𝒐𝒇 𝑴𝒂𝒓𝒆𝒌 𝒑𝒖𝒍𝒍𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒈𝒓𝒂𝒊𝒍 𝒎𝒂𝒈𝒊𝒄, 𝑺𝒆𝒊 𝒑𝒖𝒍𝒍𝒔 𝒉𝒂𝒑𝒑𝒊𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒔 𝒇𝒓𝒐𝒎 𝑴𝒂𝒓𝒆𝒌, 𝒓𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝒊𝒏𝒕𝒐 𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒉𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒕. ❞
i adore the magical creatures in this world, Osric the fellcat who appeared in the previous book too was an important side character here & i was so glad Sei had him in this new unfamiliar place, Osric was a great support & friend to Sei🥺🐅
Loska was also a fun animal companion to Marek specifically, i loved their dragon-rider bond✨ & how Marek flew with Sei🥰🐉
❝ 𝑵𝒆𝒘 𝒓𝒖𝒍𝒆, 𝐋𝐨𝐬𝐤𝐚 𝐬𝐚𝐲𝐬. 𝑵𝒐 𝒇𝒐𝒓𝒏𝒊𝒄𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒐𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒅𝒓𝒂𝒈𝒐𝒏. ❞
Kazia, Marek's younger (adopted) brother, shined much in this book, he was intriguing in the previous book too but now he really got my attention!! Kazia & Sei's relationship was fun but also sweet at the same time, they were like fire & ice with Kazia being a sassy brat causing trouble wherever he could & Sei being the calm kindhearted angel that he always was💞🤭
there were some action with little twists & turns that kept me glued to my book, also the political/court's schemes were very much plotting, lots of things got revealed but there are still more to come ik!! the wedding guests were especially a nice surprise, i loved the lil' cameos of the Sandry princes & their loves👀🥰😭💞💞💞
➥ ᴍᴍ
➥ ᴛʜɪʀᴅ-ᴘᴇʀsᴏɴ, ᴅᴜᴀʟ ᴘᴏᴠ
𓆩 𓆪 ʜɪɢʜ ғᴀɴᴛᴀsʏ
𓆩 𓆪 ᴅʀᴀɢᴏɴ-ʀɪᴅᴇʀ ᴍᴄ
𓆩 𓆪 ᴍᴀɢɪᴄ, ᴍᴀɢᴇs, ɢʀᴀɪʟs, ᴘᴏᴡᴇʀ sʜᴀʀɪɴɢ
𓆩 𓆪 ᴀʀʀᴀɴɢᴇᴅ ᴍᴀʀʀɪᴀɢᴇ
𓆩 𓆪 ᴛᴏᴜᴄʜ sᴛᴀʀᴠᴇᴅ ᴍᴄ
𓆩 𓆪 sɪᴢᴇ ᴅɪғғᴇʀᴇɴᴄᴇ
𓆩 𓆪 ғɪʀsᴛ ᴛɪᴍᴇs
𓆩 𓆪 ʟɪᴛᴛʟᴇ (ᴍᴀɢɪᴄᴀʟ) ᴇʟᴇᴄᴛʀɪᴄɪᴛʏ ᴘʟᴀʏ
𓆩 𓆪 sᴇʀɪᴇs sʜᴏᴜʟᴅ ʙᴇ ʀᴇᴀᴅ ɪɴ ᴏʀᴅᴇʀ
➽ ᴛᴡ: ᴠɪᴏʟᴇɴᴄᴇ, ᴅᴇᴀᴛʜ, ᴅʀᴀɢᴏɴ ᴇᴀᴛɪɴɢ (ʙᴀᴅ) ʜᴜᴍᴀɴ, ʙʟᴏᴏᴅ, ᴘᴀsᴛ ᴇᴍᴏᴛɪᴏɴᴀʟ ɴᴇɢʟᴇᴄᴛ, ᴋɪᴅɴᴀᴘᴘɪɴɢ, ᴍᴀɢɪᴄᴀʟ ᴄᴏɴᴛʀᴏʟ ᴏᴠᴇʀ ʙᴏᴅʏ ᴍᴏᴠᴇᴍᴇɴᴛs (ᴅᴏɴᴇ ʙʏ sᴄ ᴛᴏ ᴍᴄ, ɴᴏɴ-ᴄᴏɴ, ɴᴏᴛ sᴇxᴜᴀʟ), ᴍᴇɴᴛɪᴏɴs ᴏғ sᴛᴀɢᴇᴅ sᴜɪᴄɪᴅᴇ (ʜᴀᴘᴘᴇɴᴇᴅ ɪɴ ᴛʜᴇ ᴘʀᴇᴠɪᴏᴜs ʙᴏᴏᴋ)
October 21, 2023
Freakin love this series. This was one of my favorites, I loved Sei. At first you think he's meek but he's just very self-controlled and it's so good seeing him blossom. Marek is cool too lol.
October 28, 2023
4.75 stars because it's so very good, despite the author explaining emotions way more than I need.
I very much enjoyed the conflicts these two characters have to navigate, with their very different worldviews and assumptions, and in the prickly family dynamics. The eventual resolution is really good. And where it ends? Well. I'd hesitated to preorder book 6, but now I did because WELL THEN, HERE WE GO.
I very much enjoyed the conflicts these two characters have to navigate, with their very different worldviews and assumptions, and in the prickly family dynamics. The eventual resolution is really good. And where it ends? Well. I'd hesitated to preorder book 6, but now I did because WELL THEN, HERE WE GO.
October 30, 2023
I have such a mixed feeling about this book. Some parts I enjoyed, some parts just frustrated me.
The ones that I really liked a lot:
a. Sei - I adore his character so much. I really love the growth he showed in the story from standing up for himself and making friends everywhere!
b. Fellcats - I adore Osric so much.
c. Dragons and dragon riding. - It's about time we get a lot of these TBH
d. Grovelling - Like there is proper grovelling and asking for forgiveness and doing things right. I am so glad that when Marek fucked up he actually did worked really hard on asking Sei's forgiveness.
The ones that annoyed me:
a. Marek - It was hard for me to like his character. I don't know what it is but he just wasn't working for me. It took a long time for me to warm up to his character and even then he's just an okay character for me.
b. Some of the plot points don't make sense. Not in the sense I can't follow because it in the WHY would you even do that kind of way. I was left scratching my head for some decisions at this point.
c. Some things were not resolved i.e. Sei's trauma, the existence of that organization where Sei came from, the denial of a part of Sei's nature - the resolution was just not it. Vana's disappearance and the consequence of that was just brushed off.
Overall, I did enjoy the book but not as much as I had hoped I would.
This would be a 3.5 stars out of 5 stars.
I received an ARC of this book and I have chosen to publish my fair and honest review.
The ones that I really liked a lot:
a. Sei - I adore his character so much. I really love the growth he showed in the story from standing up for himself and making friends everywhere!
b. Fellcats - I adore Osric so much.
c. Dragons and dragon riding. - It's about time we get a lot of these TBH
d. Grovelling - Like there is proper grovelling and asking for forgiveness and doing things right. I am so glad that when Marek fucked up he actually did worked really hard on asking Sei's forgiveness.
The ones that annoyed me:
a. Marek - It was hard for me to like his character. I don't know what it is but he just wasn't working for me. It took a long time for me to warm up to his character and even then he's just an okay character for me.
b. Some of the plot points don't make sense. Not in the sense I can't follow because it in the WHY would you even do that kind of way. I was left scratching my head for some decisions at this point.
c. Some things were not resolved i.e. Sei's trauma, the existence of that organization where Sei came from, the denial of a part of Sei's nature - the resolution was just not it. Vana's disappearance and the consequence of that was just brushed off.
Overall, I did enjoy the book but not as much as I had hoped I would.
This would be a 3.5 stars out of 5 stars.
I received an ARC of this book and I have chosen to publish my fair and honest review.
December 12, 2023
Not irredeemably awful, but there are several books that do the fantasy-political marriage of convenience much better; this suffers badly in comparison. There's no real chemistry between the leads, and the political background is weak.
Try instead:
Winter's Orbit (Everina Maxwell)
A Taste of Gold and Iron (Alexandra Rowland)
A Strange and Stubborn Endurance (Foz Meadows)
Try instead:
Winter's Orbit (Everina Maxwell)
A Taste of Gold and Iron (Alexandra Rowland)
A Strange and Stubborn Endurance (Foz Meadows)
June 24, 2024
I think I have loved every single book in this series so far and I can't believe I only have one more book to go to finish the series. I wonder if there will be more. There is one more kingdom that is mentioned and I feel the series wouldn't be complete without a trilogy from there as well. I guess I'll just have to wait and see.
I love reading about Sei coming into his own as he learns to express his own desires and drop the polite form the guild shaped into him. As usual, the mythical beasts are my favorite characters in the book. I love them so much. Especially the dragon Loska.
I love reading about Sei coming into his own as he learns to express his own desires and drop the polite form the guild shaped into him. As usual, the mythical beasts are my favorite characters in the book. I love them so much. Especially the dragon Loska.
March 21, 2024
2.5 o 3 aun no lo se, me gusto pero a la vez me aburrio un poco, siento que venia con muchas expectativas del libro anterior (lo ame), los personajes igual me gustaron bastante por separado pero senti que no tenian la suficiente quimica
NO PUEDO ESPERAR A LEER A KAZIA Y LUCIEN tengo demasiada fé
NO PUEDO ESPERAR A LEER A KAZIA Y LUCIEN tengo demasiada fé
November 6, 2023
It hurts my heart to give Tavia Lark anything less than 5 stars, but this one just didn't live up to all the others 😭😭😭
November 2, 2023
This was ok, although I did not enjoy it as much as previous works.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 2, 2023
5 stars
Tavia is back, y'all! This was a fun and engaging book. And despite it being several months since I read the last one i caught up quickly while reading and I wasn't confused about who anyone was. Sei is a great character and his adaptability to Marek felt believable because of how he was raised (or trained. Or whatever). Marek was ok too even if he was kind of a butt. The birthday party scene makes up for it lol
There are several loose ends and political intrigue shenanigans afoot but it feels like a standard 2nd book in a trilogy set up for The Final Battle of the 3rd book so I was fine with it. Can't wait to see what comes next!!
I received an ARC copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
Tavia is back, y'all! This was a fun and engaging book. And despite it being several months since I read the last one i caught up quickly while reading and I wasn't confused about who anyone was. Sei is a great character and his adaptability to Marek felt believable because of how he was raised (or trained. Or whatever). Marek was ok too even if he was kind of a butt. The birthday party scene makes up for it lol
There are several loose ends and political intrigue shenanigans afoot but it feels like a standard 2nd book in a trilogy set up for The Final Battle of the 3rd book so I was fine with it. Can't wait to see what comes next!!
I received an ARC copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
January 19, 2024
Fun, sexy fantasy arranged marriage with dragons!
I feel kind of like a broken record, because I say this about every Tavia Lark book, but this was just fun and sexy and absolutely captivating. I loved Marek and Sei. I honestly felt like I really understood where each of them was coming from, and that they each had legitimate concerns and they were addressed in a realistic way. I loved Marek’s grovel and him realizing that he’s being a jerk. And most of all, I loved watching them grow and grow together. Great characters, great paired together. Can’t wait for Kazia’s book.
I feel kind of like a broken record, because I say this about every Tavia Lark book, but this was just fun and sexy and absolutely captivating. I loved Marek and Sei. I honestly felt like I really understood where each of them was coming from, and that they each had legitimate concerns and they were addressed in a realistic way. I loved Marek’s grovel and him realizing that he’s being a jerk. And most of all, I loved watching them grow and grow together. Great characters, great paired together. Can’t wait for Kazia’s book.
March 5, 2025
2.5 mostly because I am annoyed as hell.
The first 60% of this book were absolutely fantastic, 4.5 - 5 Star material EASY. I was so ready to crown this my new fav of the series. Sei was such a refreshing perspective and my heart was with him from page one. Also LOSKA! I loved Loska. I wish that dragon was able to shape shift and be Sei's actual love interest because it would have been a much better love story than this. Tbh anyone would have been better than Marek.
What ruined it for me:
✏︎ Marek. God, I hate this man with a passion. In the first 60% he was okay, and I was able to root for him, although I had some points of contempt. His anger outbursts weren't cute at all, and I absolutely hated how he let Sei apologise, taking the responsibility for his man-child-ass, when he had an outburst at their wedding rehearsal. Like PLEASE. Not him shouting 'What the fuck?' for like no reason at all (because Sei was about to take his name), in front of gentry and important people, and then letting Sei coddle him like the fucking emotional toddler that he is. Not him NOT caring enough about Sei to even ask for his birthday > that was my break with him. The grovelling was not it. Sei rightfully puts his foot down, and Marek doesn't even have the spine to follow him right away and apologise, knowing fully well that Sei is upstairs crying. THROW THIS MAN IN A BIN.
✏︎ The emotional beats were off. Due to the lead up being so big - mind you the first kiss happens around pg. 180 in a book that is 290 pages long - we had 100 pages to get through grovelling, first kiss, first time, and then some plot points. It was too rushed. After that Birthday fallout we get a half assed birthday party as a consolation price, and that's enough for Sei to forgive Marek and to kiss him. Fuck that. In my humble opinion this book would have been much better if we had some of the physical pay off sooner, being able to then focus on the emotional healing in the latter half of the book. The way it was done, the emotional beats went from 0 to 100. And anything that came after the Birthday Party felt woefully unearned.
✏︎ Sei was touch starved, and somehow nothing was really done with it. At all. Also Sei was pretty inconsistent in character when it came to sex. He's timid in all other aspects, but somehow starts to dirty talk in the bedroom, when it's his first time? Yah. No. I don't believe it. Again, felt rushed and like a lot of character development was skipped to get him to that point.
✏︎ The sex scenes were bland & boring. I know Tavia can do much, much better than this. The ones in this book were lazy.
✏︎ Marek again. The fact that he rejects Sei for what he is - a grail - over and over again; and does it AGAIN like 20 pages before the end of the book was my last straw. At this point you'd think we could have moved on from that, to other complications, but no. Anyway, him being a dumb bitch leads to Sei getting into a very scary situation, and the fallout from that is also, again, basically glossed over.
SEI DESERVES BETTER.
The first 60% of this book were absolutely fantastic, 4.5 - 5 Star material EASY. I was so ready to crown this my new fav of the series. Sei was such a refreshing perspective and my heart was with him from page one. Also LOSKA! I loved Loska. I wish that dragon was able to shape shift and be Sei's actual love interest because it would have been a much better love story than this. Tbh anyone would have been better than Marek.
What ruined it for me:
✏︎ Marek. God, I hate this man with a passion. In the first 60% he was okay, and I was able to root for him, although I had some points of contempt. His anger outbursts weren't cute at all, and I absolutely hated how he let Sei apologise, taking the responsibility for his man-child-ass, when he had an outburst at their wedding rehearsal. Like PLEASE. Not him shouting 'What the fuck?' for like no reason at all (because Sei was about to take his name), in front of gentry and important people, and then letting Sei coddle him like the fucking emotional toddler that he is. Not him NOT caring enough about Sei to even ask for his birthday > that was my break with him. The grovelling was not it. Sei rightfully puts his foot down, and Marek doesn't even have the spine to follow him right away and apologise, knowing fully well that Sei is upstairs crying. THROW THIS MAN IN A BIN.
✏︎ The emotional beats were off. Due to the lead up being so big - mind you the first kiss happens around pg. 180 in a book that is 290 pages long - we had 100 pages to get through grovelling, first kiss, first time, and then some plot points. It was too rushed. After that Birthday fallout we get a half assed birthday party as a consolation price, and that's enough for Sei to forgive Marek and to kiss him. Fuck that. In my humble opinion this book would have been much better if we had some of the physical pay off sooner, being able to then focus on the emotional healing in the latter half of the book. The way it was done, the emotional beats went from 0 to 100. And anything that came after the Birthday Party felt woefully unearned.
✏︎ Sei was touch starved, and somehow nothing was really done with it. At all. Also Sei was pretty inconsistent in character when it came to sex. He's timid in all other aspects, but somehow starts to dirty talk in the bedroom, when it's his first time? Yah. No. I don't believe it. Again, felt rushed and like a lot of character development was skipped to get him to that point.
✏︎ The sex scenes were bland & boring. I know Tavia can do much, much better than this. The ones in this book were lazy.
✏︎ Marek again. The fact that he rejects Sei for what he is - a grail - over and over again; and does it AGAIN like 20 pages before the end of the book was my last straw. At this point you'd think we could have moved on from that, to other complications, but no. Anyway, him being a dumb bitch leads to Sei getting into a very scary situation, and the fallout from that is also, again, basically glossed over.
SEI DESERVES BETTER.
March 27, 2025
3.5, maybe a 3.6. I really don't know if I like it more than Prince in Disguise or not. But I did like it.
It picks up directly where the previous book left off, and Marek is now facing the betrothal that his older brother left behind. (Or ran away from) As the second dragon rider in the series, Marek actually is a nice contrast to Rakos previously. Unlike Rakos he did not really take part in the last war, and he is not as opposed to the militaristic ambitions of his country. Marek is someone who is very clear on he is and what he can do, and what he can't, or doesn't want to do. His bond with his dragon is probably the sweetest thing about him.
Paired with him is Sei, a grail that is sent from another country as part of a political match, who has been indoctrinated by his cult-like upbringing. They way of looking at the world is completely different and clashes, Marek wants out, and Sei wants to be used. Their start isn't nice given the circumstances, and it takes them a while to find their way to each other. Though they are physically attracted to each other from the start.
Personally, I thought that it was nice to see a relationship that looks like its just going to fail - and that starts before (at least one of them) is willing to consider a relationship. The issues they faced were understandable, giving that they are the people that they are and have their own way of looking at the world and expecting things. Personally, I thought that both of their viewpoints held merit, and they could have figures it out a lot sooner if they properly communicated. They tried, but they are both bad at it. Marek's fears made sense, and I think it's not wrong of him to draw the line to protect someone. The issue with it is that he does not have all the facts, and Sei is not sure enough of himself to confront him with these facts. Instead, he withdraws into politeness and courtesy - a language that Marek does not appreciate.
I agree with Osric though that Marek was the best thing that happened to Sei, even if the journey there was not without pain. But well, growing can be painful. If you enjoy the series you will enjoy this one too.
This novel also continues the storyline between the Dire brothers slowly coming together and I hope to see more in the next one.
It picks up directly where the previous book left off, and Marek is now facing the betrothal that his older brother left behind. (Or ran away from) As the second dragon rider in the series, Marek actually is a nice contrast to Rakos previously. Unlike Rakos he did not really take part in the last war, and he is not as opposed to the militaristic ambitions of his country. Marek is someone who is very clear on he is and what he can do, and what he can't, or doesn't want to do. His bond with his dragon is probably the sweetest thing about him.
Paired with him is Sei, a grail that is sent from another country as part of a political match, who has been indoctrinated by his cult-like upbringing. They way of looking at the world is completely different and clashes, Marek wants out, and Sei wants to be used. Their start isn't nice given the circumstances, and it takes them a while to find their way to each other. Though they are physically attracted to each other from the start.
Personally, I thought that it was nice to see a relationship that looks like its just going to fail - and that starts before (at least one of them) is willing to consider a relationship. The issues they faced were understandable, giving that they are the people that they are and have their own way of looking at the world and expecting things. Personally, I thought that both of their viewpoints held merit, and they could have figures it out a lot sooner if they properly communicated. They tried, but they are both bad at it. Marek's fears made sense, and I think it's not wrong of him to draw the line to protect someone. The issue with it is that he does not have all the facts, and Sei is not sure enough of himself to confront him with these facts. Instead, he withdraws into politeness and courtesy - a language that Marek does not appreciate.
I agree with Osric though that Marek was the best thing that happened to Sei, even if the journey there was not without pain. But well, growing can be painful. If you enjoy the series you will enjoy this one too.
This novel also continues the storyline between the Dire brothers slowly coming together and I hope to see more in the next one.
November 27, 2023
Another fun entry in the Perilous Courts series, probably my second favorite so far. I will say that it was more romance heavy over court politics than the previous books which was a missed opportunity.
Sei is a grail, a person with immense magical reserves that he can’t use. Thus, Sei is betrothed to a mage prince of House Dire, but not the one he expects. I had a lot of fun with book, my only complaint is that I think there was a missed opportunity for it to be so much more. Both Sei and Marek are inheritors of immense power yet tightly constrained, Sei’s inability to access his magic and Marek’s responsibilities to the throne (and vulnerabilities to court politics). I would have liked a bit more reflection about their similarities and perhaps a broader railing against the systemic forces that put them in this situation. Also, their differences were resolved rather easily, which I did want, Marek can’t be too much of an asshole or he’s not a viable love interest, but Sei has so many competencies that it would have been fun for him to counter Marek more (subverting a few guards, gaining an unexpected political power block, knowing more about magic from his intense education, etc).
Highly recommended if you like the previous books.
Sei is a grail, a person with immense magical reserves that he can’t use. Thus, Sei is betrothed to a mage prince of House Dire, but not the one he expects. I had a lot of fun with book, my only complaint is that I think there was a missed opportunity for it to be so much more. Both Sei and Marek are inheritors of immense power yet tightly constrained, Sei’s inability to access his magic and Marek’s responsibilities to the throne (and vulnerabilities to court politics). I would have liked a bit more reflection about their similarities and perhaps a broader railing against the systemic forces that put them in this situation. Also, their differences were resolved rather easily, which I did want, Marek can’t be too much of an asshole or he’s not a viable love interest, but Sei has so many competencies that it would have been fun for him to counter Marek more (subverting a few guards, gaining an unexpected political power block, knowing more about magic from his intense education, etc).
Highly recommended if you like the previous books.
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