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Chronicles of Ylandre #6
In Fine Form
Guile is an asset in foreign relations, but an affliction when it comes to affairs of the heart.
A bastard of unknown parentage, Yandro Vaidon was born saddled with a huge disadvantage. The nigh rigid class structure of the dual-gendered realm of Ylandre relegated him to the bottom rungs of the social ladder and promised a dim future. Worse, the endeavor to win respectability was arduous—most claimed it was impossible. But by dint of hard work, perseverance and instances of plain good luck, Yandro rises higher than even he had hoped. However, he quickly learns there are hurdles to overcome even at these heights. Not least is his inconvenient attraction to a colleague deemed way beyond his reach.
Scion of House Essendri, the reigning dynasty of Ylandre, Jareth Hadrana is gifted with more than his fair share of beauty and wit. The kingdom’s preeminent ambassador, he has surpassed what is usually expected of a fief-lord’s second son. But while his high birth and family wealth opened doors for him, Jareth’s success stemmed from his own efforts to make something of himself other than the idle fop or swaggering rakehell that was the lot of many younger sons.
A coincidence of interest drew Jareth and Yandro to the same profession, but a king’s intervention throws them together in an association that soon turns into mutual desire. However, prejudices have largely kept the aristocratic True Bloods and lower caste Half Bloods on opposite sides of the social and romantic divide. In addition, reticence born of distrust and a secret like no other hamper their attempts to span the chasm between them. It will take more than their shared passion to convince them to lower their protective walls and risk their hearts in full.
Contains hermaphroditism and explicit homoerotic sexual encounters.
A bastard of unknown parentage, Yandro Vaidon was born saddled with a huge disadvantage. The nigh rigid class structure of the dual-gendered realm of Ylandre relegated him to the bottom rungs of the social ladder and promised a dim future. Worse, the endeavor to win respectability was arduous—most claimed it was impossible. But by dint of hard work, perseverance and instances of plain good luck, Yandro rises higher than even he had hoped. However, he quickly learns there are hurdles to overcome even at these heights. Not least is his inconvenient attraction to a colleague deemed way beyond his reach.
Scion of House Essendri, the reigning dynasty of Ylandre, Jareth Hadrana is gifted with more than his fair share of beauty and wit. The kingdom’s preeminent ambassador, he has surpassed what is usually expected of a fief-lord’s second son. But while his high birth and family wealth opened doors for him, Jareth’s success stemmed from his own efforts to make something of himself other than the idle fop or swaggering rakehell that was the lot of many younger sons.
A coincidence of interest drew Jareth and Yandro to the same profession, but a king’s intervention throws them together in an association that soon turns into mutual desire. However, prejudices have largely kept the aristocratic True Bloods and lower caste Half Bloods on opposite sides of the social and romantic divide. In addition, reticence born of distrust and a secret like no other hamper their attempts to span the chasm between them. It will take more than their shared passion to convince them to lower their protective walls and risk their hearts in full.
Contains hermaphroditism and explicit homoerotic sexual encounters.
172 pages, ebook
First published June 22, 2014
11 people are currently reading
223 people want to read
About the author
Eressë
10 books363 followersAKA Eressë Belley
Eressë has always enjoyed reading and writing historical fantasy. Indeed, her pen name is taken from the elvish language J.R.R. Tolkien created for his fantasy epic The Lord of the Rings, a favorite of hers since way back when. However, most of her stories turned into M/M romances because the male leads had more chemistry with each other than with the females. Why she wrote them that way she doesn't know. But this penchant for M/M fantasy romance became the wellspring of her series Chronicles of Ylandre.
Eressë lives in Southeast Asia with her husband, three sons and one dog. She also likes to cook and bake and is a professed chocoholic. But her first love is and always will be writing stories.
Blog: Tales by Eressë
Eressë has always enjoyed reading and writing historical fantasy. Indeed, her pen name is taken from the elvish language J.R.R. Tolkien created for his fantasy epic The Lord of the Rings, a favorite of hers since way back when. However, most of her stories turned into M/M romances because the male leads had more chemistry with each other than with the females. Why she wrote them that way she doesn't know. But this penchant for M/M fantasy romance became the wellspring of her series Chronicles of Ylandre.
Eressë lives in Southeast Asia with her husband, three sons and one dog. She also likes to cook and bake and is a professed chocoholic. But her first love is and always will be writing stories.
Blog: Tales by Eressë
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
December 30, 2015
12/27/15: Series RE-READ in preparation for newest book...
3.75 - 4 Stars
Firstly...
Upon first glance of the dude on the right side of this cover, I immediately visualized my old Star Trek: Next Generation homie...Lieutenant Commander Data.
Not gonna lie, I had way to much fun Data meme hunting.
Here's my favorite:
LOLZ.
Oh Data, you rascal.
Secondly...
I have already stated that I am completely addicted to this series.
However, I feel like I have been chasing the dragon ever since book one.
Books 2-6 have been wicked good and I have really enjoyed reading them...
But let's be honest fellow drug addicts, nothing ever compares to that first high.
And like I said:
And now I be outta drugs completely because there are no more books in the series.
I only hope the author is scribing a new hit for me.
3.75 - 4 Stars
Firstly...
Upon first glance of the dude on the right side of this cover, I immediately visualized my old Star Trek: Next Generation homie...Lieutenant Commander Data.
Not gonna lie, I had way to much fun Data meme hunting.
Here's my favorite:
LOLZ.
Oh Data, you rascal.
Secondly...
I have already stated that I am completely addicted to this series.
However, I feel like I have been chasing the dragon ever since book one.
Books 2-6 have been wicked good and I have really enjoyed reading them...
But let's be honest fellow drug addicts, nothing ever compares to that first high.
And like I said:
And now I be outta drugs completely because there are no more books in the series.
I only hope the author is scribing a new hit for me.
July 13, 2014
2.5 stars.
Sooo..I feel let down.
As the heroes both are diplomats and colleagues - the storyline was really heavy on politics and various missions Jareth and Yandro went on. It also influenced their relationship - which was professional first and foremost. Sadly, the romance was severely lacking... Yandro was too prim and proper, and his position as Jareth's aide wasn't helping at all. Any development of an 'office romance' was complicated by their positions and possible rumors..which was really frustrating. As a team, they were good..as a couple - not very much. And their I-love-yous weren't really convincing.
Adding to that, I didn't feel much connection with the heroes, especially Jareth. His POV-s were few and in between and provided little insight into his true feelings for Yandro, or his personality.
There were some angsty parts that made my heart ache for Yandro - but again, they were mostly because his professional pride was offended.
I needed the heroes to just take a respite from their demanding jobs and just spend sometime together, bonding, getting to really know each other. As it was, the lengthy description of political nuances and such took focus for most of the book. Add to that flowery prose - and at times I was bored out of my mind.
Even sex scenes weren't very good and lacked chemistry.
p.s. and I didn't like the way Jareth cut Gawyn off..that was a bit callous of him.
Sooo..I feel let down.
As the heroes both are diplomats and colleagues - the storyline was really heavy on politics and various missions Jareth and Yandro went on. It also influenced their relationship - which was professional first and foremost. Sadly, the romance was severely lacking... Yandro was too prim and proper, and his position as Jareth's aide wasn't helping at all. Any development of an 'office romance' was complicated by their positions and possible rumors..which was really frustrating. As a team, they were good..as a couple - not very much. And their I-love-yous weren't really convincing.
Adding to that, I didn't feel much connection with the heroes, especially Jareth. His POV-s were few and in between and provided little insight into his true feelings for Yandro, or his personality.
There were some angsty parts that made my heart ache for Yandro - but again, they were mostly because his professional pride was offended.
I needed the heroes to just take a respite from their demanding jobs and just spend sometime together, bonding, getting to really know each other. As it was, the lengthy description of political nuances and such took focus for most of the book. Add to that flowery prose - and at times I was bored out of my mind.
Even sex scenes weren't very good and lacked chemistry.
p.s. and I didn't like the way Jareth cut Gawyn off..that was a bit callous of him.
March 5, 2016
This review contains spoilers so be warned.
The story is about Yandro and Jareth and I gotta admit I was really really curious about them ever since they made an appearance in Sacred Fate.
Jareth or Jath is Tenryon's brother (you know, the only Templar the world knows about?). He is also a very important diplomat who likes to indulge in mind games with his prey and has trouble finding a good aide because all of them fall in his bed. So the Ardan comes up with the perfect solution: Yandro Vaidon, a Half Blood of dubious lineage whose status as a bastard makes his life really hard. Yandro is decided to succeed where other have failed and keep a platonic relationship with Jareth. But even Yandro can't keep Jath from his mind, heart and bed indefinitely.
When I saw the new Eresse book I was soooo happy but then I read it... I was expecting more from this book, a lot more. So far, I rated every single one of Ylandre books with 5 stars cause they deserved it but for some reason this book felt... rushed, incomplete.
The main focus is the diplomatic conflict between Teraz and Ylandre. We've seen a bit of this conflict in Keo and Naeth's book but this time the author takes us deeper in the intrigues. So deep I could hardly tell is this book's focus were the mind games or the romance. The world is veeery complicated and the only thing we can go about is the list of places. So I wonder: where is the damn map? How can I imagine those damn continents if I don't have the slightest idea of how they are supposed to be?
This "The smallest continent, Arvalde lies to the south of Lydan and is connected to its northern neighbor by a narrow land bridge" doesn't work for me. It's just a constant jumble in a wolrd already complicated beyond belief. The wolrd building is incredible and I absolutely love it, don't get me wrong, but it's too complicated to understand without a bit of help and a map.
Anyway, as I was saying... the main focus of the book are the diplomatic relationships and not the love story. Jath and Yan... they make a great couple, they had charisma but except the bed hopping, some jealousy scenes and a minor break up, I saw nothing else to remind me again that this is a book I bought so I can dream about the romantic and immortal love in a faraway land.
And the end... REALLY? REALLY? You just skip the damn wedding, the kiddie making scene and you tell us: ok, here is it, your happy ending that you've been waiting the whole damn book is cut in half; I've made my quota of pages, I don't feel like writing more. They are happy, married, have a kid, end of story.
I hope the next book will be better and I still mourn the potential this book had... 3 stars from me.
The story is about Yandro and Jareth and I gotta admit I was really really curious about them ever since they made an appearance in Sacred Fate.
Jareth or Jath is Tenryon's brother (you know, the only Templar the world knows about?). He is also a very important diplomat who likes to indulge in mind games with his prey and has trouble finding a good aide because all of them fall in his bed. So the Ardan comes up with the perfect solution: Yandro Vaidon, a Half Blood of dubious lineage whose status as a bastard makes his life really hard. Yandro is decided to succeed where other have failed and keep a platonic relationship with Jareth. But even Yandro can't keep Jath from his mind, heart and bed indefinitely.
When I saw the new Eresse book I was soooo happy but then I read it... I was expecting more from this book, a lot more. So far, I rated every single one of Ylandre books with 5 stars cause they deserved it but for some reason this book felt... rushed, incomplete.
The main focus is the diplomatic conflict between Teraz and Ylandre. We've seen a bit of this conflict in Keo and Naeth's book but this time the author takes us deeper in the intrigues. So deep I could hardly tell is this book's focus were the mind games or the romance. The world is veeery complicated and the only thing we can go about is the list of places. So I wonder: where is the damn map? How can I imagine those damn continents if I don't have the slightest idea of how they are supposed to be?
This "The smallest continent, Arvalde lies to the south of Lydan and is connected to its northern neighbor by a narrow land bridge" doesn't work for me. It's just a constant jumble in a wolrd already complicated beyond belief. The wolrd building is incredible and I absolutely love it, don't get me wrong, but it's too complicated to understand without a bit of help and a map.
Anyway, as I was saying... the main focus of the book are the diplomatic relationships and not the love story. Jath and Yan... they make a great couple, they had charisma but except the bed hopping, some jealousy scenes and a minor break up, I saw nothing else to remind me again that this is a book I bought so I can dream about the romantic and immortal love in a faraway land.
And the end... REALLY? REALLY? You just skip the damn wedding, the kiddie making scene and you tell us: ok, here is it, your happy ending that you've been waiting the whole damn book is cut in half; I've made my quota of pages, I don't feel like writing more. They are happy, married, have a kid, end of story.
I hope the next book will be better and I still mourn the potential this book had... 3 stars from me.
February 29, 2016
I've always particularly enjoyed these stories. It's a well crafted fantasy world and the characters are always wrapped up in some sort of intrigue/adventure with a healthy dose of romance and angst thrown in. This was really no exception in my opinion.
I liked the political side to this story. These two have been in the backdrop of a number of the other stories and I'm glad to read about them at last. I actually liked that for two men whose lives depend on their abilities to talk their way out of anything, or into it even, these two struggled to talk where it mattered most. I think it says something about how ephemeral words can be, when you're used to dealing with them, actions ultimately matter more.
This story balanced the politics and the adventure well in my opinion. The romance may have felt a little more subvert, but I think that's due in large part to Yandro's understanding of his station in life, especially when compared to Jareth's. He's never felt comfortable in his place, his low birth and illegitimacy weighing heavily on people's opinions of him. He's forced himself into behaving even more properly than necessary so his merits can never be questioned. Yet it's still hard to trust in the promotions he's been given within the Foreign Office. Hard to believe that everything he's worked for can continue to come true. So he denies himself the one thing his heart really desires, a relationship outside of the office with his boss. Jareth has wanted Yandro just as long, but he respects the young man too much to overly press his suit. He doesn't ever want to make Yandro uncomfortable. And his own fears allow things to go unspoken for far longer than they should have.
Personally I loved these two together. I felt like their problems were real and understandable, but were overcome in a manner that spoke to the true value of both of these two men. Very enjoyable. 4.5 Stars
I liked the political side to this story. These two have been in the backdrop of a number of the other stories and I'm glad to read about them at last. I actually liked that for two men whose lives depend on their abilities to talk their way out of anything, or into it even, these two struggled to talk where it mattered most. I think it says something about how ephemeral words can be, when you're used to dealing with them, actions ultimately matter more.
This story balanced the politics and the adventure well in my opinion. The romance may have felt a little more subvert, but I think that's due in large part to Yandro's understanding of his station in life, especially when compared to Jareth's. He's never felt comfortable in his place, his low birth and illegitimacy weighing heavily on people's opinions of him. He's forced himself into behaving even more properly than necessary so his merits can never be questioned. Yet it's still hard to trust in the promotions he's been given within the Foreign Office. Hard to believe that everything he's worked for can continue to come true. So he denies himself the one thing his heart really desires, a relationship outside of the office with his boss. Jareth has wanted Yandro just as long, but he respects the young man too much to overly press his suit. He doesn't ever want to make Yandro uncomfortable. And his own fears allow things to go unspoken for far longer than they should have.
Personally I loved these two together. I felt like their problems were real and understandable, but were overcome in a manner that spoke to the true value of both of these two men. Very enjoyable. 4.5 Stars
July 18, 2014
Review: In Fine Form (Chronicles of Ylandre #6) by Eressë
Eressë's Chronicles of Ylandre series is a one-click for me. I have been following this ongoing epic fantasy tale about the world of Ylandre, a world where there is only one gender, for a few years now. It is a beautiful fantasy world and yet it could be dangerous, too, for it is filled with intrigue, both political and not.
In this latest installment, we finally have the story of Jareth Hadran, one of the cousins to the king whose ambassadorial skills guarantee peace within their lands. Although he is only a second son, his rise in government is much envied by many but could never be surpassed. He has a skill, a talent and a history that none others, save a few, have.
Yandro Vaidon was an orphan who should never have had the future he now holds and enjoys. His emphatic skill had earlier been discovered and nurtured by no less than the House of Essendri itself because the king recognized a prized gift when he sees it. Trained at a young age in government, the king assigns Yandro as adjunct to Jareth for he saw their talents complemented each other.
Despite all prejudice from the aristocrats, Yandro quickly proves his skills and becomes the most trusted, and longest lasting, assistant to Jareth. With each success they shared, they become closer and more dependent on the other. When a young upstart unexpectedly joins Jareth's staff, Yandro not only finds himself at odds with this new addition but with Jareth himself.
Of all of the Ylandre books, this probably has to be the most politically driven story I have read. Whereas all the others focused more on the romance between the future spouses usually going on within huge dramas and personal angsts, this story of the developing romance between Jareth and Yandro felt more like a courtship than anything else. Their romance began to brew a long time ago but they both never really did anything about it. They were mostly deeply embroiled with fending themselves from political intrigues and attacks but always had each others' backs' covered. When Jareth does finally make a move, it is welcomed but with hesitance for this Essendri is well known for his conquests and Yandro did not really want to be another notch on the post. Both men face the trials on their relationship and in the process, learn more of the other and of themselves.
This has a different feel from the rest of the books and for those who are looking for a lot of angst, drama, heartbreak and mpreg scenes, they won't find it here. As a sixth installment to the series, this is definitely a beautiful addition and satisfied my craving for more stories from the world of Ylandre.
Eressë's Chronicles of Ylandre series is a one-click for me. I have been following this ongoing epic fantasy tale about the world of Ylandre, a world where there is only one gender, for a few years now. It is a beautiful fantasy world and yet it could be dangerous, too, for it is filled with intrigue, both political and not.
In this latest installment, we finally have the story of Jareth Hadran, one of the cousins to the king whose ambassadorial skills guarantee peace within their lands. Although he is only a second son, his rise in government is much envied by many but could never be surpassed. He has a skill, a talent and a history that none others, save a few, have.
Yandro Vaidon was an orphan who should never have had the future he now holds and enjoys. His emphatic skill had earlier been discovered and nurtured by no less than the House of Essendri itself because the king recognized a prized gift when he sees it. Trained at a young age in government, the king assigns Yandro as adjunct to Jareth for he saw their talents complemented each other.
Despite all prejudice from the aristocrats, Yandro quickly proves his skills and becomes the most trusted, and longest lasting, assistant to Jareth. With each success they shared, they become closer and more dependent on the other. When a young upstart unexpectedly joins Jareth's staff, Yandro not only finds himself at odds with this new addition but with Jareth himself.
Of all of the Ylandre books, this probably has to be the most politically driven story I have read. Whereas all the others focused more on the romance between the future spouses usually going on within huge dramas and personal angsts, this story of the developing romance between Jareth and Yandro felt more like a courtship than anything else. Their romance began to brew a long time ago but they both never really did anything about it. They were mostly deeply embroiled with fending themselves from political intrigues and attacks but always had each others' backs' covered. When Jareth does finally make a move, it is welcomed but with hesitance for this Essendri is well known for his conquests and Yandro did not really want to be another notch on the post. Both men face the trials on their relationship and in the process, learn more of the other and of themselves.
This has a different feel from the rest of the books and for those who are looking for a lot of angst, drama, heartbreak and mpreg scenes, they won't find it here. As a sixth installment to the series, this is definitely a beautiful addition and satisfied my craving for more stories from the world of Ylandre.
August 13, 2017
August 2017
this is my favourite book in this series besides Sacred Fate. I love it and really hope the next books come out soon
first review
Wow. this is definitely one of my favorite books in this series! I loved it how their relationship developed!
both characters are so likeable and great people.
I could not put it down!
love this book (and this series)
this is my favourite book in this series besides Sacred Fate. I love it and really hope the next books come out soon
first review
Wow. this is definitely one of my favorite books in this series! I loved it how their relationship developed!
both characters are so likeable and great people.
I could not put it down!
love this book (and this series)
August 29, 2014
I am a huge fan of this series and have made eressë's titles auto-buys so when I found out the 6th book int he Chronicles of Ylandre series was out, I was excited to read it. Unfortunately, this title didn't hold my interest as well as her previous titles and I think it had to do with the vast information of diplomatic affairs being shared. It was important to the story though, so it's not completely a negative but it felt like more information was being given about the provinces and the kingdom than about the characters. I wanted to see Yandro's life in the orphanage and I felt a little cheated to not have experienced it. While I love Jareth and I think he's a total BAMF, he felt flat to me. Maybe because we spent more time in Yandro's POV than Jareth's. Not sure but of the six titles, this one held the least appeal after I'd finished reading it.
November 26, 2016
This whole series is at the top of my-6-star-favs list. I love the characters, the world, the concept of "turning". Everything is so well written and the characters are all so deep. The only stumbling block for me is the names, it takes me a while to get them anchored in my head since they are not something I'm familiar with and often can't figure out how to pronounce them correctly. But other than that this whole series is amazing and should be read one right after the other. The timelines overlap so we see how things are happening from other points of view.
I can't say enough great things about this series, I can only say...
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
===============================
1st read - Mar 24, 2015
2nd read - Nov 25, 2016
I can't say enough great things about this series, I can only say...
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
===============================
1st read - Mar 24, 2015
2nd read - Nov 25, 2016
July 28, 2014
3.5 Stars
The first 25% of this book was a little slow and dry but, happily, it picked up after that. I loved that I was stumped by Yandro's history with Gawyn. (BTW, although Gawyn was a ignorant idiot and a little uppity, he didn't deserve IMO.) There was a lot of political intrigue and some suspense. Although I liked both Yandro and Jareth, they came off as a little cold and aloof, Yandro especially. Nevertheless, I was a happy camper by the end of the book ... well, the male lactation squicked me the fuck out! But hey, it's MPreg!
Bottom line: Another gem by Eressë.
The first 25% of this book was a little slow and dry but, happily, it picked up after that. I loved that I was stumped by Yandro's history with Gawyn. (BTW, although Gawyn was a ignorant idiot and a little uppity, he didn't deserve IMO.) There was a lot of political intrigue and some suspense. Although I liked both Yandro and Jareth, they came off as a little cold and aloof, Yandro especially. Nevertheless, I was a happy camper by the end of the book ... well, the male lactation squicked me the fuck out! But hey, it's MPreg!
Bottom line: Another gem by Eressë.
February 10, 2015
Another book that I absolutely love in this series.
I skimmed over some of the political information, but I enjoyed the restrained romance between Jareth and Yandro. There was so much passion simmering underneath their civilities and professional behaviour.
I loved the contrast between Yandro's aloof demeanour and Jareth's sly, teasing manner. Their relationship just appealed to me in so many ways.
This ranks near the top of my favorite Ylandre books.
I skimmed over some of the political information, but I enjoyed the restrained romance between Jareth and Yandro. There was so much passion simmering underneath their civilities and professional behaviour.
I loved the contrast between Yandro's aloof demeanour and Jareth's sly, teasing manner. Their relationship just appealed to me in so many ways.
This ranks near the top of my favorite Ylandre books.
June 27, 2014
So it may be a day or two till I read this because I'm starting the series over again tonight :) I love these books so dang much!!!
Read 6/26/2014
Loved it as usual. I missed seeing the whole gang though, it was kind of lonely without all of them. Can't wait to read the next one.
Read 6/26/2014
Loved it as usual. I missed seeing the whole gang though, it was kind of lonely without all of them. Can't wait to read the next one.
August 19, 2014
awesome...just awesome!
Eresse does it again - can't wait for the next one!
Eresse does it again - can't wait for the next one!
January 12, 2022
Eresse shied away from the angst in this one and I was sorely disappointed. All the same, they are one of my favourite authors for a reason. It was a good book with great world building, though what truly shines is the traditions and practices....the social aspect.
Minus one star solely because the political aspect was a bit distracting(Could have been my fault because I was too busy rooting for the two main leads.
Minus one star solely because the political aspect was a bit distracting(Could have been my fault because I was too busy rooting for the two main leads.
June 27, 2018
Its definitely my favorite book of the serie so far. I loved the actions and the characters. I was so sad when I finished the book, I wished to know more when Yandro had the baby... I love both characters I hope they will be a second book for their storyline.
I love the universe of the serie, it’s really well written, I hope will have new books this year! Please!! ;)
I love the universe of the serie, it’s really well written, I hope will have new books this year! Please!! ;)
May 19, 2020
Personally, this is my second favourite novel of this series. Thank the lords! there was no cheating. And I liked how Yandro's character was different from the others I've read in the series.Jareth was quite the jackass a few times but he grovels well so..... Anywho.. I enjoyed this and there's a definite possibility of me re-reading this.
July 2, 2018
Loved it
Wonderful book. Wonderful series. Some of the archaic language and usage make me smile but overall a great read. Solid five stars. Not just to the book but to the series as well
Wonderful book. Wonderful series. Some of the archaic language and usage make me smile but overall a great read. Solid five stars. Not just to the book but to the series as well
May 19, 2018
Too much political scene and confusing with the year at first, but i guess it necessary for the continuity with other book’s line story.. I do love how the romance started and how they act on it though. Little bit of angst here and there.. The jealousy was just the spice we need, and not too much.. tbqh i did skip the political babbling..
The ending was not disappointing at all! I like this MC better than some other book’s MC in these AU..
The ending was not disappointing at all! I like this MC better than some other book’s MC in these AU..
November 30, 2018
Rating: 4 stars.
November 13, 2025
Officially my most favorite one so far in this series!! It’s got drama, action, angst and tooth-decaying romance. Jareth and Yandro story is a confirmed reread for me in the future.
August 2, 2014
Alas, I can only give this book two stars, and here is why...
For me, the book was incredibly hard to read and get into. First of all, the plot and the pace weren't very engaging, I was tempted to just scroll past the large chunks of text describing the political intrigues because well, for one, they weren't that interesting and, secondly, I expected this to be a romance book so I was looking for said romance. There wasn't any. The characters instantly fall in love, then at some point, fall in bed but the romance? Nope. Not there. Then they get married and have a kid, but that's all behind the scenes, basically, instead of romance there's just sex and then, proclamations of eternal love, but there isn't any actual relationship development, not that I found anyway. If you don't count their professional relationship. But even the transition between professional and personal wasn't very smooth and some of their interactions seemed forced, therefor losing believability.
I have to say, the political parts of the book were so incredibly boring, mainly because of two reasons - no map and the language. Yes, the language, I might as well have read some university law and regulations of whatever, it would be just as dull and as difficult to follow.
This monotone boring to death legalese like language is then mixed with paragraphs of purple prose, add to that the Thesaurus overload and it's just too much. Sometimes, less is more, and if you have an interesting, intriguing plot with charismatic characters and a good pace, then actually simpler language would be best, but this felt like the author focused so much on this flowery and intricate writing style that all of those aforementioned things like plot and pace, took a backseat. They were barely there, in other words. Add to that a great number of characters, all of which have rather dissonant, forgettable names, and well...Needless to say, this wasn't much of a pleasant read but more of a struggle to remember which continent and country lays where and who the leader is and who that or this character is and what he does, and how they all connect and why and etc etc.
There is one other thing that I find annoying and not just in this book but rather, the series. It all seems repetitive. Book One - instant love for the submissive character, the same we can find here as well. Book One, the dominant character is a templar with superpowers, and in this book - the same. Book One, they soulbind after waiting for lifetimes, this book features the same thing. Comparing further, in the first and this book, we can see the characters are of different social statuses, the dominant ones are high up, and the submissive ones are from a much lower background. There is also a single male character (in both books) that briefly comes between the lovers and ruins their relationship leading to a short break off, but afterwards everything is good again and he is quickly removed having served his purpose. Then, there's the sex scenes, if you compare them, they're nearly the same too. Both submissive characters, from book one and from this one, even have the same stutter when feeling out of their depth/embarassed/etc, their use of exclamations and judging by their speech patterns, they are also very similar, the same can be said for the dominant characters. Basically what I'm getting at is, it seems as though the author has this one character template she tweaks slightly for each book, but for the most part, it's like I'm reading stories about the same characters just set in different time, and they have different names.
And that is even more boring than flowery descriptions and very twisted political intrigues done in a monotone formal language. I would like to see this author work more on the characters, the romance and plot development, and the pace, in the next book. The world created in this series seems complex and interesting but the way it's presented in the books, well, despite all the thesaurus peppered prose and flowing descriptions, it's actually difficult to conjure up and really see it. Especially considering the lack of an actual map.
I can sum this up in three words - less is more. Or, quality over quantity.
For me, the book was incredibly hard to read and get into. First of all, the plot and the pace weren't very engaging, I was tempted to just scroll past the large chunks of text describing the political intrigues because well, for one, they weren't that interesting and, secondly, I expected this to be a romance book so I was looking for said romance. There wasn't any. The characters instantly fall in love, then at some point, fall in bed but the romance? Nope. Not there. Then they get married and have a kid, but that's all behind the scenes, basically, instead of romance there's just sex and then, proclamations of eternal love, but there isn't any actual relationship development, not that I found anyway. If you don't count their professional relationship. But even the transition between professional and personal wasn't very smooth and some of their interactions seemed forced, therefor losing believability.
I have to say, the political parts of the book were so incredibly boring, mainly because of two reasons - no map and the language. Yes, the language, I might as well have read some university law and regulations of whatever, it would be just as dull and as difficult to follow.
This monotone boring to death legalese like language is then mixed with paragraphs of purple prose, add to that the Thesaurus overload and it's just too much. Sometimes, less is more, and if you have an interesting, intriguing plot with charismatic characters and a good pace, then actually simpler language would be best, but this felt like the author focused so much on this flowery and intricate writing style that all of those aforementioned things like plot and pace, took a backseat. They were barely there, in other words. Add to that a great number of characters, all of which have rather dissonant, forgettable names, and well...Needless to say, this wasn't much of a pleasant read but more of a struggle to remember which continent and country lays where and who the leader is and who that or this character is and what he does, and how they all connect and why and etc etc.
There is one other thing that I find annoying and not just in this book but rather, the series. It all seems repetitive. Book One - instant love for the submissive character, the same we can find here as well. Book One, the dominant character is a templar with superpowers, and in this book - the same. Book One, they soulbind after waiting for lifetimes, this book features the same thing. Comparing further, in the first and this book, we can see the characters are of different social statuses, the dominant ones are high up, and the submissive ones are from a much lower background. There is also a single male character (in both books) that briefly comes between the lovers and ruins their relationship leading to a short break off, but afterwards everything is good again and he is quickly removed having served his purpose. Then, there's the sex scenes, if you compare them, they're nearly the same too. Both submissive characters, from book one and from this one, even have the same stutter when feeling out of their depth/embarassed/etc, their use of exclamations and judging by their speech patterns, they are also very similar, the same can be said for the dominant characters. Basically what I'm getting at is, it seems as though the author has this one character template she tweaks slightly for each book, but for the most part, it's like I'm reading stories about the same characters just set in different time, and they have different names.
And that is even more boring than flowery descriptions and very twisted political intrigues done in a monotone formal language. I would like to see this author work more on the characters, the romance and plot development, and the pace, in the next book. The world created in this series seems complex and interesting but the way it's presented in the books, well, despite all the thesaurus peppered prose and flowing descriptions, it's actually difficult to conjure up and really see it. Especially considering the lack of an actual map.
I can sum this up in three words - less is more. Or, quality over quantity.
June 15, 2015
This is more of a series review then entirely focused on this book but the bulk of the matter is about other things that have occurred in this series pertaining to this particular book.
Okay so seriously how many times are we going to get the description of mirash as having an astringent taste. It made me laugh out so loud when I read it because I am pretty sure I have read it once in each book of this series =)
So Hilarity aside this book was seriously lacking in romance. I for one was looking to see what it was about each other that made Yadre and Jareth fall in love with each other. To see something in the things they did for each other or in the thoughts they shared among themselves that indicated that they were falling in love. But this book was seriously lacking in the romantic aspects of their relationship. Their love for each other was only apparent because the author wrote it as such. Basically their love felt forced and was definitely not apparent in the characters' thoughts and gestures.
[Similarly the romance between Naeth and Reijir was severely lacking and on top of that Naeth seemed extremely, for lack of a better word dumb,stupid, idiotic... you get the gist. This book therefore redeems itself on the count that both its main characters had a good head on top of their shoulders. While the romance between Rohyr & Lassen and Ashiran & Eiren was swoon worthy. I get goosebumps thinking of the dreams Eiren and Ashiran shared.]
Despite finding the romance lacking, the rest of the aspects of this story are actually quite well written and at times interesting. This book brings out a lot of aspects of the Diplomatic Corps of Ylandre which led to quite a lot of exciting situations. But I guess this book fails in striking a balance between how much of the background of the corps should be used to bring the two MCs together and how much to further the story. Basically the balance weighed on the side of furthering the story.
Also another thing I noticed that was peculiar to this story was the fact that this story spanned a shorter number of years as compared to the other books in this series. Even though I am actually not pro fast forwarding time sometimes it serves to create an illusion of the deepening of the bond between two people with time and since this book hardly spans any period of time we weren't even afforded the illusion of closeness.
Gawyn was a completely useless character as far as this book was concerned and the word useless here is being used to describe the fact that he didn't contribute anything towards the story, not his character which could be also be described with the same. Even though premise of his character was quite promising he didn't even provide sufficient jealousy fodder. The story would have been at the same place with or without him.
Another thing that I love about this series is the bond between the siblings and their cousins. I think until now Eiren has featured in every book but he was surprisingly lacking in this one. I missed him. In Heartstrings Ash was inundated with advice from all his cousins and I especially loved his relationship with Aeldan, his brother who was basically his go-to guy. I was kind of expecting the same camaraderie between Ten and Jath but it was no way as encompassing as Dan and Ash.
This book is ok, if you don't expect much it is nice. Basically I am waiting for the next book as the trend this series follows implies that it should be good one.
Okay so seriously how many times are we going to get the description of mirash as having an astringent taste. It made me laugh out so loud when I read it because I am pretty sure I have read it once in each book of this series =)
So Hilarity aside this book was seriously lacking in romance. I for one was looking to see what it was about each other that made Yadre and Jareth fall in love with each other. To see something in the things they did for each other or in the thoughts they shared among themselves that indicated that they were falling in love. But this book was seriously lacking in the romantic aspects of their relationship. Their love for each other was only apparent because the author wrote it as such. Basically their love felt forced and was definitely not apparent in the characters' thoughts and gestures.
[Similarly the romance between Naeth and Reijir was severely lacking and on top of that Naeth seemed extremely, for lack of a better word dumb,stupid, idiotic... you get the gist. This book therefore redeems itself on the count that both its main characters had a good head on top of their shoulders. While the romance between Rohyr & Lassen and Ashiran & Eiren was swoon worthy. I get goosebumps thinking of the dreams Eiren and Ashiran shared.]
Despite finding the romance lacking, the rest of the aspects of this story are actually quite well written and at times interesting. This book brings out a lot of aspects of the Diplomatic Corps of Ylandre which led to quite a lot of exciting situations. But I guess this book fails in striking a balance between how much of the background of the corps should be used to bring the two MCs together and how much to further the story. Basically the balance weighed on the side of furthering the story.
Also another thing I noticed that was peculiar to this story was the fact that this story spanned a shorter number of years as compared to the other books in this series. Even though I am actually not pro fast forwarding time sometimes it serves to create an illusion of the deepening of the bond between two people with time and since this book hardly spans any period of time we weren't even afforded the illusion of closeness.
Gawyn was a completely useless character as far as this book was concerned and the word useless here is being used to describe the fact that he didn't contribute anything towards the story, not his character which could be also be described with the same. Even though premise of his character was quite promising he didn't even provide sufficient jealousy fodder. The story would have been at the same place with or without him.
Another thing that I love about this series is the bond between the siblings and their cousins. I think until now Eiren has featured in every book but he was surprisingly lacking in this one. I missed him. In Heartstrings Ash was inundated with advice from all his cousins and I especially loved his relationship with Aeldan, his brother who was basically his go-to guy. I was kind of expecting the same camaraderie between Ten and Jath but it was no way as encompassing as Dan and Ash.
This book is ok, if you don't expect much it is nice. Basically I am waiting for the next book as the trend this series follows implies that it should be good one.
August 12, 2016
★★★★★/★★★★★
In Fine Form is the sixth book in the captivating Chronicles of Ylandre series. The stories are set in a fantasy world of Eresse’s invention, known as the planet Aisen where everyone is dual-gendered although very masculine hermaphrodites. Eresse has put great depth of work into creating this fantasy world. She has invented landscapes, languages and beings.
With her amazing and engaging writing style, plot progressions, world and character building Eresse never disappoints her readers. Her characters are lovable, strong, and truly unique from one another. Eresse has such vivid imagination that when she creates characters I think of it as creating another human being. So far all of her characters have felt so real to me and I have yet to come across a single character of hers I haven't loved - villains excluded. There's a reason Eresse is my favorite author.
In Fine Form is the story of Yandro ,a half Blood and bastard, and Jareth a True Blood of noble birth and an Ambassador. The book explores the world of diplomatic relations and it’s full of romance, humor and action. The romance between Yandro and Jareth is amazing. One thing I love about this series is the eternal love. On this, I will be brief because I don’t want to give away any spoilers but both Yandro and Jareth will prove their love for each other is the forever kind of love.
Another highlight of the book was the love,friendship and fraternal bond between Jareth and Tenryon. Their relationship is truly beautiful. Tenryon is a character I have been dying to learn more about and let me tell you we learn plenty. I can’t wait to read his book.
Each book in this amazing series can stand on their own but read in order they create an amazing world with characters you care so deeply that their pain and sorrow is yours and you want to fight on their side. I always squeal when past characters show up in new novels (I loved seeing Rio and Dylen again and Rohyr&Lassen).
So yeah I loved it. In Fine Form is a book I would encourage everyone to read. Eresse truly is an amazing writer and I’m forever a fan.
I think it goes without saying that I can’t wait for the next book which will be Ranael and Vaeren’s. I’m just enjoying this series so much…plus I have a feeling more than being fellow warriors is going to complicate Ranael and Vaeren's story.
In Fine Form is the sixth book in the captivating Chronicles of Ylandre series. The stories are set in a fantasy world of Eresse’s invention, known as the planet Aisen where everyone is dual-gendered although very masculine hermaphrodites. Eresse has put great depth of work into creating this fantasy world. She has invented landscapes, languages and beings.
With her amazing and engaging writing style, plot progressions, world and character building Eresse never disappoints her readers. Her characters are lovable, strong, and truly unique from one another. Eresse has such vivid imagination that when she creates characters I think of it as creating another human being. So far all of her characters have felt so real to me and I have yet to come across a single character of hers I haven't loved - villains excluded. There's a reason Eresse is my favorite author.
In Fine Form is the story of Yandro ,a half Blood and bastard, and Jareth a True Blood of noble birth and an Ambassador. The book explores the world of diplomatic relations and it’s full of romance, humor and action. The romance between Yandro and Jareth is amazing. One thing I love about this series is the eternal love. On this, I will be brief because I don’t want to give away any spoilers but both Yandro and Jareth will prove their love for each other is the forever kind of love.
Another highlight of the book was the love,friendship and fraternal bond between Jareth and Tenryon. Their relationship is truly beautiful. Tenryon is a character I have been dying to learn more about and let me tell you we learn plenty. I can’t wait to read his book.
Each book in this amazing series can stand on their own but read in order they create an amazing world with characters you care so deeply that their pain and sorrow is yours and you want to fight on their side. I always squeal when past characters show up in new novels (I loved seeing Rio and Dylen again and Rohyr&Lassen).
So yeah I loved it. In Fine Form is a book I would encourage everyone to read. Eresse truly is an amazing writer and I’m forever a fan.
I think it goes without saying that I can’t wait for the next book which will be Ranael and Vaeren’s. I’m just enjoying this series so much…plus I have a feeling more than being fellow warriors is going to complicate Ranael and Vaeren's story.
June 29, 2014
In fine form is just absolutely beautiful *gushes after reading all night until 6am in the morning* I loved the dynamics between our protagonists this time around, probably because Jareth and Yandro might be in love with each other, but they dance around it in an exceedingly eloquent(and amusing) manner. Actually, it was probably because the power balance between this couple is a lot more even than some of the previous pairings that this is one of my favourites in the series. Annnd. You get to read a story about diplomats in a fantasy world. It's something that's hardly ever written- because you needed to have created a continent of nations, their rulers, and each country's history before you can plausibly have characters negotiating their way through peace and war.
The book isn't without it's flaws, I admit, but Eresse always makes me fall in love with her characters, in a head over heels way I haven't been able to feel for so long. I'll be eagerly awaiting for Eresse's next installment, to fall in love with Ylandre again :)
The book isn't without it's flaws, I admit, but Eresse always makes me fall in love with her characters, in a head over heels way I haven't been able to feel for so long. I'll be eagerly awaiting for Eresse's next installment, to fall in love with Ylandre again :)
August 19, 2014
Rating 4.5
Yandro Vaidon is the very essence of proper diplomacy at all times, much to the dismay of his employer Ambassador Jareth Hadrana. Nevertheless, there is an undeniable attraction between Yandro and Jareth. The attraction will take years to come into full bloom, but Yandro and Jareth consider their future together was well worth the wait.
In Fine Form is the sixth book in the Chronicles of Ylandre. The setting is Aisen, a planet resembling the European Regency time period. True Bloods formed the ruling class of every realm in Aisen, their ancestors kept their breeding with the planet’s natives to the barest minimum, retaining much of the physical strength, endurance and most of their gifts of mind control. The ancestors of the Half Bloods bred indiscriminately, which resulted in the diminishment or disappearance of many of the True Blood characteristics. The plot illustrates social prejudices, rumors of war, greed as well as schemes of corruption.
Jareth Hadrana is a member of the ruling class while Yandro Vaidon is a member of the lowest class of commoner. The class difference is the main source of Yandro’s despair. He allows the bullies to torment him without protest. Yandro even has the demeanor of a man deserving of such ill-treatment. Yet he is one of the most ethical of men amongst Jareth’s staff. Jareth is a man of compassion, regardless of what society deems as proper. Jareth also is not above using his mental powers to gain information. Jareth’s main flaw is his lack of trust in anyone who is not a family member.
Eresse has created another impressive as well as an exceptionally enjoyable addition to this series. I suggest reading the series in sequence beginning with Book One: Sacred Fate.
November 3, 2015
Cinderfella plot line in this dual-gendered (Read: generally M/M fantasy) romance with a poor bastard orphan growing up and falling in love with a powerful rich titled Ambassador
I liked the self-made-man, Yandro Vaidon from the start, he only does his job and is the best he have be at all times in this story. Abassador, Jareth Hadrana could be a better man at times, but he is a powerful dude so it makes sense that he would be careful with whom he shares his bed and his life. I liked seeing some of our beloved characters from the royal House Essendri and glimpses of other countries outside of Ylandre.
Best part is when Jareth finally shows off his powers because there are lots of hints to the templars, as powerful beings, but we never see the extent of what they can do until this book.
I still like the firs world building book the best, Sacred Fate! But I'm a sucker for world building in fantasy books like my favorite from the Wheel of Time series is still The Eye of the World and Pawn of Prophecy from the Belgariad.
172 pages and bought for $6.99
4 stars
I liked the self-made-man, Yandro Vaidon from the start, he only does his job and is the best he have be at all times in this story. Abassador, Jareth Hadrana could be a better man at times, but he is a powerful dude so it makes sense that he would be careful with whom he shares his bed and his life. I liked seeing some of our beloved characters from the royal House Essendri and glimpses of other countries outside of Ylandre.
Best part is when Jareth finally shows off his powers because there are lots of hints to the templars, as powerful beings, but we never see the extent of what they can do until this book.
I still like the firs world building book the best, Sacred Fate! But I'm a sucker for world building in fantasy books like my favorite from the Wheel of Time series is still The Eye of the World and Pawn of Prophecy from the Belgariad.
172 pages and bought for $6.99
4 stars
March 4, 2016
Перипетии международных отношений, интриги, драки, погони и смертельная опасность, казалось бы, подобное украшает любовный роман. Конечно, когда оно не в ущерб любовной линии. А здесь, к сожалению, именно так, чувствуется перекос. Все эти события отодвигают развитие отношений героев на второй план. К тому же из-за мизерного количества POV'ов Джарета его финальное заявление о страстной любви оставило меня в недоумении когда именно она возникла. Зато мальчик на этот раз не нежный цветуй и, слава богу, не девственник, лежащий бревном в постели. Яндро обладает гордостью (наконец!) и всего добился сам еще до встречи со своим мужчиной. Вот если бы он еще краснеть перестал, цены бы ему не было и можно ставить в пример всем не в меру трепетным юношам Eresse.
Но книга все равно хорошая. :)
Но книга все равно хорошая. :)
February 19, 2016
I really liked the dynamic between the MCs, their journey was fun to read. Both were nice, interesting guys. I would've liked to spend a little time in Jareth's head. And I also kept expecting to find out more about Yandro's past/parents and that never happened. The angst kept me guessing, but I like the little twist on it. Overall the plot had me mostly confused. It felt like a re-tread of events from past books, but with the perspective altered to show these characters, and that would've been fine, except then it felt like just enough of the details were different or it wasn't completely the same events so I'm left unsure if it was the the events or just similar ones. Maybe a series re-read is in order. The couple is compelling enough that it was still enjoyable.
September 3, 2014
I absolutely love this series. I'll be super sad when it's over. Luckily there's something like 9 books left so that'll be a long time coming.
The only reason I didn't give this one 5 starts was because I found that the politics out shined the romance. I'm not against politics I actually quite enjoy the political field that's been forming throughout the past novels. I just wanted more heartfelt moments I suppose. Especially since this was a soul-mating book and not just the standard hanfasting or even fane marriage.
Anyway, I love the writing and will happily stick with this series until the end.
Can't wait for Vaeren's story next!
The only reason I didn't give this one 5 starts was because I found that the politics out shined the romance. I'm not against politics I actually quite enjoy the political field that's been forming throughout the past novels. I just wanted more heartfelt moments I suppose. Especially since this was a soul-mating book and not just the standard hanfasting or even fane marriage.
Anyway, I love the writing and will happily stick with this series until the end.
Can't wait for Vaeren's story next!
January 5, 2015
Out of all the books in the series, this is the one that I've reread most often. Really like the characters and the story, also nice that there were both conflicts within the relationship and the diplomatic conflict within their universe to keep things interesting.
My main annoyance with the book is how, unlike the other books, there are inconsistencies between the characters on the cover and their description in the book. This makes the reading especially annoying since the two interfere with each other, distorting the image in the reader's mind.
My main annoyance with the book is how, unlike the other books, there are inconsistencies between the characters on the cover and their description in the book. This makes the reading especially annoying since the two interfere with each other, distorting the image in the reader's mind.
June 25, 2014
Oh, this was so good. I liked it as much as books #1 and #4. It was just a wonderful read. Yandro was such a sweet-heart. I liked Jareth too, but Yan will hold a special place in my heart like Eiren, Firyon and Lassen. :)
With each novel, I continue to be amazed at the depth of Eresse's world-building skills. I am no less astounded this time around.
My only complaint is that now I am done the book because I couldn't put it down from the moment I loaded it onto my Kindle. I have to wait for the next installment now.
With each novel, I continue to be amazed at the depth of Eresse's world-building skills. I am no less astounded this time around.
My only complaint is that now I am done the book because I couldn't put it down from the moment I loaded it onto my Kindle. I have to wait for the next installment now.
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