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Bonded Realms #3
Huntress of the Citadel
She may be in for the fight of her life, falling in love with the enemy.
The seer may have foretold that Narani Randene would find her true love among the palaces of her enemy, but the warrior and huntress of the ancient race dwelling in the mysterious wildwood is determined to prove the seer wrong. Yet when she comes across a royal entourage under attack, she feels compelled to defend them only to find herself wounded and forced to recuperate in the monarch’s own citadel.
The widowed Manus Abora, recently crowned ruler of the Arboran Monarchy, cannot help but admire the skill and stamina of the warrior who rescued him and his young daughter from peril. Now danger stirs across the land of Alyna, with other monarchies embracing invaders from the sea, and treachery stalks his city. He asks Narani to train his guard and protect his daughter, and swiftly realizes that it’s his own heart that’s most in danger from this quick-thinking, fast-acting, deadly beauty.
Manus proves a magnet for danger and for the machinations of every lady in leagues. As women compete to become his queen, Narani must decide where her destiny lies. Does she return to the wildwood to protect her people from the invaders, leaving behind the little girl she has come to love and the man who inexplicably holds her heart? Or does she start the fight of her life and earn the right to stand beside Manus as his queen?
If you like closed door, swoon-worthy fantasy romance—featuring intelligent, determined heroines and untameable, honorable heroes; dual points of view (hers and his); and a happily-ever-after with ongoing world conflict—in a land designed to sweep you away, grab this story perfect for fans of Kenley Davidson, K.M. Shea, JA Andrews, and Tara Grayce.
The seer may have foretold that Narani Randene would find her true love among the palaces of her enemy, but the warrior and huntress of the ancient race dwelling in the mysterious wildwood is determined to prove the seer wrong. Yet when she comes across a royal entourage under attack, she feels compelled to defend them only to find herself wounded and forced to recuperate in the monarch’s own citadel.
The widowed Manus Abora, recently crowned ruler of the Arboran Monarchy, cannot help but admire the skill and stamina of the warrior who rescued him and his young daughter from peril. Now danger stirs across the land of Alyna, with other monarchies embracing invaders from the sea, and treachery stalks his city. He asks Narani to train his guard and protect his daughter, and swiftly realizes that it’s his own heart that’s most in danger from this quick-thinking, fast-acting, deadly beauty.
Manus proves a magnet for danger and for the machinations of every lady in leagues. As women compete to become his queen, Narani must decide where her destiny lies. Does she return to the wildwood to protect her people from the invaders, leaving behind the little girl she has come to love and the man who inexplicably holds her heart? Or does she start the fight of her life and earn the right to stand beside Manus as his queen?
If you like closed door, swoon-worthy fantasy romance—featuring intelligent, determined heroines and untameable, honorable heroes; dual points of view (hers and his); and a happily-ever-after with ongoing world conflict—in a land designed to sweep you away, grab this story perfect for fans of Kenley Davidson, K.M. Shea, JA Andrews, and Tara Grayce.
- GenresFantasy
268 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 13, 2025
6 people are currently reading
20 people want to read
About the author
Regan Allen
4 books14 followersRegan Allen writes heartening, swoon-worthy fantasy romance that sweeps readers away to another place and time. Readers love her intelligent, determined heroines and untameable, honorable heroes. Whether set in relatable real-world situations or in worlds of her own making, her richly detailed, sweetly sensual stories brim with heroism, hope, and happily ever afters. Regan Allen lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband of many years and enjoys taking walks in her own personal wildwood. Learn more about her and sign up for her newsletter for exclusive stories and sneak peeks at her website.
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
January 17, 2025
I really enjoyed this third book in Allen's Bonded Realms series. She has created a very interesting world in this series, and adds new characters (both loveable and not so loveable) and new plot threads in this book. If you can read the series in order, you'll understand the world better, and enjoy reading more about various characters in each book. I can't wait for the next book!
November 26, 2025
4.50 stars
This third installment of the series has the enjoyable elements of the previous books; adventure, compelling characters, great world building, and a swoony couple, but with even higher stakes! We follow Narani Randene, sister of our prior MMCs, and Manus Arbora, monarch of Arboran, after the battle for the throne of this kingdom. Treachery is still in the air, and a new menace in the form of the newcomers, who call themselves the Vanguard, looms over Alyna.
That said, I would say that this book was considerably darker in comparison with the other two. However, Allen never writes in a way that completely erases hope from the story; on the contrary, this is an element that subtly persists despite the twists. This hope can be savored even through the characters' hardships and struggles. I think this is not an easy thing to manage while writing, but seems to be something natural for Allen. This could easily be my favorite of the series so far, for that reason alone.
Admittedly, I wasn't fully convinced about the new couple since we got the hint of them in Emissary of the Hidden, however, they both grew on me as I read. The admiration seemed genuine and natural as it developed. The way Manus and Narani embraced the culture of the other in appreciation, and how they represented the blessed and the Khorrum coming together as one was beautifully done.
Once again, I need to praise the author for the way in which she introduces new characters, enriching the story and preparing the upcoming parts of the series. A daunting future has been foretold since book 1, but we're getting closer and closer to it. Even if I'm a little worried for our beloved characters (👀), I can't wait to see how this world keeps growing and bringing amazing stories with it.
This third installment of the series has the enjoyable elements of the previous books; adventure, compelling characters, great world building, and a swoony couple, but with even higher stakes! We follow Narani Randene, sister of our prior MMCs, and Manus Arbora, monarch of Arboran, after the battle for the throne of this kingdom. Treachery is still in the air, and a new menace in the form of the newcomers, who call themselves the Vanguard, looms over Alyna.
That said, I would say that this book was considerably darker in comparison with the other two. However, Allen never writes in a way that completely erases hope from the story; on the contrary, this is an element that subtly persists despite the twists. This hope can be savored even through the characters' hardships and struggles. I think this is not an easy thing to manage while writing, but seems to be something natural for Allen. This could easily be my favorite of the series so far, for that reason alone.
Admittedly, I wasn't fully convinced about the new couple since we got the hint of them in Emissary of the Hidden, however, they both grew on me as I read. The admiration seemed genuine and natural as it developed. The way Manus and Narani embraced the culture of the other in appreciation, and how they represented the blessed and the Khorrum coming together as one was beautifully done.
Once again, I need to praise the author for the way in which she introduces new characters, enriching the story and preparing the upcoming parts of the series. A daunting future has been foretold since book 1, but we're getting closer and closer to it. Even if I'm a little worried for our beloved characters (👀), I can't wait to see how this world keeps growing and bringing amazing stories with it.
July 2, 2025
In Huntress of the Citadel, Regan Allen continues the overarching story that began in book one of the series from another couple's point of view: this time Narani (the Randene sister) and Manus (the rightful ruler of Arboran) get a chance to tell their stories and that of their people.
I really enjoyed this installment, where we leave the Wildwood for a bit and get to live in the city, experiencing their way of life and family situations. It isn't always pretty, but I liked how the author gives us this new perspective, seeing the contrast between the two ways of living.
Secondary characters help to flesh out this world, with Manus' daughter and her companion especially helping the couple to find their happy ending. And the threat of those who come promising peace and prosperity with a "demonstration" grows ever larger and more sinister.
While this can be read as a standalone, for a richer experience and for the sake of worldbuilding, I recommend starting the series from book one. It is no hardship as the characters are delightful and the looming war has its roots in the first two books.
I was given a review copy of this book but was not required to write a positive review. The thoughts expressed are both honest and my own.
I really enjoyed this installment, where we leave the Wildwood for a bit and get to live in the city, experiencing their way of life and family situations. It isn't always pretty, but I liked how the author gives us this new perspective, seeing the contrast between the two ways of living.
Secondary characters help to flesh out this world, with Manus' daughter and her companion especially helping the couple to find their happy ending. And the threat of those who come promising peace and prosperity with a "demonstration" grows ever larger and more sinister.
While this can be read as a standalone, for a richer experience and for the sake of worldbuilding, I recommend starting the series from book one. It is no hardship as the characters are delightful and the looming war has its roots in the first two books.
I was given a review copy of this book but was not required to write a positive review. The thoughts expressed are both honest and my own.
January 13, 2025
Because Regan Allen's characters melted my heart, I enjoyed this story to the full. The storyline kept me turning pages, concerned and intrigued. Regan has the marvelous ability to use this unique fantasy world and the cultures to allow room for her characters to interact, struggle, and grow. Regan's characters practically breathe on the pages, and their struggles and concerns are relatable.
I love that in characters. Strong, unique, and courageous characters are a must for me to love a story. I've read the whole series so far, and I recommend them by word of mouth. HUNTRESS OF THE CITADEL is hot off the pages and freshly published and I've already been telling others about this wonderful read.
This fantasy world holds charm, warmth, and danger. I love wandering around through these pages. I feel as though I'm somewhere special, like the AVITAR movies! The cultures are so different from one other making them interesting and ripe for conflict! Oh, I love conflict in a story! (So much better than real-life conflict!)
I love that in characters. Strong, unique, and courageous characters are a must for me to love a story. I've read the whole series so far, and I recommend them by word of mouth. HUNTRESS OF THE CITADEL is hot off the pages and freshly published and I've already been telling others about this wonderful read.
This fantasy world holds charm, warmth, and danger. I love wandering around through these pages. I feel as though I'm somewhere special, like the AVITAR movies! The cultures are so different from one other making them interesting and ripe for conflict! Oh, I love conflict in a story! (So much better than real-life conflict!)
January 20, 2025
Huntress of the Citadel
Bonded Realm Series Book Three
Warrior Narani Randene finds herself in a hota in the citadel. Unsure if she’s a prisoner or not, after all, she did save the monarch. Ends up that he was trying to let her feel at home after she was hit by a poisonous dart meant for him. As she recovers, Narani discovers she enjoys her time with Manus but knows he would never choose a Khorrum warrior as his queen.
Prince Manus Arbora, Monarch of Arboran, wants to rule differently than his father. His brothers had tried to overthrow him, and thankfully, the Falling Waters had helped him keep his throne. And now he was saved by them again. He couldn’t help but admire Narani. She was different from the Blessed woman who hoped to be his next queen.
Trouble is stirring, as the seer had predicted. The Khorrum and Blessed will have to fight together to overcome the Vanguard, who are trying to take over. An exciting story that had me enthralled from beginning to end. A unique series.
https://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com...
Bonded Realm Series Book Three
Warrior Narani Randene finds herself in a hota in the citadel. Unsure if she’s a prisoner or not, after all, she did save the monarch. Ends up that he was trying to let her feel at home after she was hit by a poisonous dart meant for him. As she recovers, Narani discovers she enjoys her time with Manus but knows he would never choose a Khorrum warrior as his queen.
Prince Manus Arbora, Monarch of Arboran, wants to rule differently than his father. His brothers had tried to overthrow him, and thankfully, the Falling Waters had helped him keep his throne. And now he was saved by them again. He couldn’t help but admire Narani. She was different from the Blessed woman who hoped to be his next queen.
Trouble is stirring, as the seer had predicted. The Khorrum and Blessed will have to fight together to overcome the Vanguard, who are trying to take over. An exciting story that had me enthralled from beginning to end. A unique series.
https://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com...
June 10, 2025
This was a nice installment in this series. Our King, Manus, we met at the end of the last series as our characters won him back his throne. Our heroine, Narani, has come to stay in his city as she searches for a friend who went missing at the end of book 1. As she spends more time with the King, she grows to feel for him. He is a single father who holds a great weight as monarch. There are people visiting from across the sea that our seer has warned will bring nothing but trouble. As this story unfolds, we see Narani helping out with training his warriors and protecting and teaching his daughter. Against the wishes of all, Manus grows closer and closer to Narani. The middle of the story was a bit slower for me but action picked up later on (no spoilers here!). It was a good read and I’m looking forward to the next in the series. This is a just kisses romance.
I received a complimentary e-copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I received a complimentary e-copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
December 8, 2024
Awesome!
The author has created a fantastic world in which she invites the reader into.
There is wonderful characters and a strong plot and subplots to keep the reader engaged.
This is the third book in the series. You can read it as a standalone but I highly recommend reading them all to fully immerse yourself into the world.
The hero is strong and powerful but has a kindness and integrity that allows him to rule fairly. His world is tittering on a verge.
The heroine is a gifted warrior but has the intelligence and strength to help her people and others.
I cannot wait for the next book…I am hooked!
I received an ARC copy of the book and all opinions are my own.
The author has created a fantastic world in which she invites the reader into.
There is wonderful characters and a strong plot and subplots to keep the reader engaged.
This is the third book in the series. You can read it as a standalone but I highly recommend reading them all to fully immerse yourself into the world.
The hero is strong and powerful but has a kindness and integrity that allows him to rule fairly. His world is tittering on a verge.
The heroine is a gifted warrior but has the intelligence and strength to help her people and others.
I cannot wait for the next book…I am hooked!
I received an ARC copy of the book and all opinions are my own.
January 13, 2025
From the dramatic opening scene to the final swoon-worthy ending, this is a book to delight readers of all kinds. While it’s billed as fantasy romance, this is much more than either fantasy or romance. Filled with the highest of stakes as well as unforgettable characters, it’s a story that will linger long in readers’ memories at the same time that it makes us eager for the next book in the Bonded Realms series.
January 23, 2025
Book 3 is as well done as Book 2, which was my favorite. I liked Narani from the beginning. She reminds me of someone near and dear to my heart. I loved the way she navigated her future, without fear, though she did not want to believe what the Seer foretold.
I really like the gifts some of these characters have. Can’t wait for Book 4.
I really like the gifts some of these characters have. Can’t wait for Book 4.
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews