Part 3 of 'Beasts of Wrath and Madness'. This CANNOT be read as a standalone, as it is a direct continuation of Book 2: 'The Slave In A Princess Disguise.' . . I am home, yet it does not feel like home. The chains on my wrists and ankles are gone, but those around my heart tighten.
Is the world truly black and white, or is it just my vision failing? Does all food turn to ash, or is it merely my mouth forgetting how to taste? When the crows call and the moon hangs heavy, does everyone else drown their sorrow in pillows, or am I the only one?
Urai is hell. A kingdom of devils. Yet hell is my heaven. My dark devil—through these falling eyes—is my angel.
I breathe, but I do not exist. I exist, but I do not live.
Send me back to hell.
—Emeriel Galilea Evenstone. . . . AUTHOR'S
This is a very dark-themed read. Thread with caution. Expect triggers. Expect hardcore.
When Kiss Leilani was twelve, she snuck into her older sister's room while she slept to steal one of her romance novels, curious to discover why her sister was always lost in a book. That single act of rebellion created a lifelong obsession.
From that moment, a chronic booknapper was born—one who blossomed into an avid reader and, over time, an equally passionate writer.
For Kiss Leilani, writing has since become more than a hobby; it’s a joy and an integral part of her life.
You know the hard stuff is coming when there is a brief author note in between chapters warning you of what is going to happen, and that happen is bad.
I'm afraid this will be one of those reviews where I can't tell you what happened. Just my feelings.
And my feelings are all over the place. Like, how are we going to come back from this disaster? I can't even express myself. I'm that fucking speechless.
I have been wandering all over my house for the past hour with my mouth gaped and my mind blown. Guys, how are we going to come back from this disaster? What will happen to them next? Everything is fucking burned to the ground! FUCK!
To think I started this book on a whim because of an FB post and now here I am 3 books later and waiting on the final. Prolly my favorite book out of the 3 out so far. An emotional 🎢. Can’t wait for the finale 🥹.
Read again in one day! Waiting patiently for part 4 now. Compelling story from start to finish that will have you wishing for more! Idk how part 4 ends but really hoping Akeira and Vlad get a spin off story from this!
I sprinted through the book in less than two days – once I started, I just couldn't put it down. Reading-wise, it was relatively easy as the author keeps the language quite simple and easy to understand, making it easier to follow the plot. But the plot itself... Most part of this book felt like a simple romance with couples bonding, talking, getting to know each other. There was significantly less violence and explicit content than the previous books. Though, once reaching the final chapters and the cliffhanger I understood this part was only like the silence before storm, preparing for everything the grand finale of the series might have in store for us.
To be fair, my personal focus was on Vladya's story and I hoped it to evolve more, but with everything going on with both main characters, I understand why the focus was mostly on them. Now, with the unimaginably difficult cliffhanger, I am eagerly waiting for the last book to see if both couples will get their happy ending, holding Vladya's story especially dear.
Okay shoot me - I kept reading these. I debated not putting this on my Goodreads at all but at the end of the day, I have to be honest with my fans (literally no one). I constantly straddle that line of being angry about the decline of intellectualism and critical thinking in literature and also letting people (myself NOT Included) enjoying whatever the fuck they want. On one hand, the publishing industry’s single minded focus on these ‘porn with plot’ novels not only over saturates the market with nearly identical stories - but also aids the narrative that women are not intellectual readers. However, on the other hand - bodice rippers have existed for a long time. They have historical relevance and the continuation of such stories shows a pattern of human behaviour and a gravitation to shock factor that cannot be dismissed as frivolous. Of course, not all things that have withstood the test of time are inherently good. FGM is historical and obviously bad, sexism is as old as time, yet also bad. There is an argument to be made that women gravitate to these stories of male violence towards women because that is the reality they live in. This book is heavy with rape kink and all kinks are born from trauma. It has long been a hypothesis that women consume rape pornography for two reasons. One - to cope with their own sexual assault. Two - to mentally prepare themselves for something they consider inevitable. Therefore stories like this serve a purpose other than titillation. They are a tool of therapy. However, we have witnessed this rise in ‘anti-vanilla’ sex as a society. While I don’t believe sex should ever be something we are scared to talk about - we have adapted a counter-culture approach to how we talk about sex and it is inherently damaging. The response to alternative sex being heavily shamed by a conservative public was to completely flip the script and shame what people deemed as ‘vanilla’. Suddenly there was a pressure to perform certain sexual acts - lest you be seen as a prude. This, coupled with an over saturation of male serving pornography, puts young women in a perilous position. You have a patriarchal society telling you to do certain things during sex - and then you pick up the latest viral book off tiktok and it’s romanticising all these toxic behaviours that contribute to female subjugation. The prevalence of apps such as tiktok add fuel to the fire - limited parental oversight, a algorithm that is notorious for pushing harmful content. The same anti-vanilla rhetoric that exists in society is magnified on social media. Creators are able to claim kink and exotic erotica without living that lifestyle. The sharp decline in critical thinking and digital literacy mean we take these claims at face value. ‘It’s cool to be kinky’ - ‘unsafe sexual practices aren’t a big deal’. You get a complete misrepresentation of the BDSM community - which was NEVER meant to be a mainstream movement, let alone the standard for sex. Just like the neoliberalist race to the bottom - there is a similar phenomena in so called ‘dark romance’. Authors complete to outdo each other with their stories. One character is abused so in the next book, they are tortured. One love interest likes to inflict pain, so in the next book they are actual murderers. And while the primary audience of these books are NOT children - that is the demographic that is picking them up. They is no safeguarding in publishing - books that are very much for adults find themselves in a young adult category. And therefore stories like this cause irreparable harm on developing minds. My overall point being - while this story was poorly written, not well edited and lulled with the plot - the real reason it is rated so low is not because of the story itself but because of the world it exists in.
"I never realized how much of a light you were until everywhere went dark without you."
The Princess and her Grand King by Kiss Lilani is the third book in this thrilling and seductive fantasy series, and while it’s slightly less smut-heavy than the first two books, it’s still packed with charm, emotion, and intensity. In fact, I think it goes even deeper into the characters this time; I was hooked from the first chapter.
Yes, it’s still sexy (don’t worry, fans of steamy scenes will still be satisfied!), but this time, the erotic moments felt more heartfelt and purposeful, supporting the story rather than leading it; allowing the characters’ bonds to take centre stage.
One of the biggest highlights for me was the character development; particularly with Emeriel and Vladya. Her strength, independence, and evolving identity are written so well. And Vladya… his gentle, kind-hearted nature continues to unfold in such a beautiful way. He’s really become a character I care deeply about.
The emotional journey that he and Aekiera go through in this book was beautifully powerful. The two of them have come so far; both individually and together; and the tension, heartache, and vulnerability they share hit me hard. Their story might actually be my favourite in this installment. I found myself craving more chapters with them; they bring such a unique energy and tenderness to the story.
The plot is a total page-turner. I kept saying, “Just one more chapter,” again and again. Secrets started to spill, and once the momentum picked up, it didn’t let go.
While the back-and-forth between Emeriel and Daemon sometimes felt a little repetitive, it still felt emotionally honest to where they’re at in their journey. I just wish some key things (no spoilers!) had happened a little earlier in the book, so we could enjoy those moments more.
"Pain has a way of changing people," Ottai said quietly. "It starts from the roots, twisting everything until one becomes numb to all that matters."
We also got a better glimpse of Ottai, which I enjoyed; he’s still the most unknown of the main characters, but I’m glad we’re getting to know him a bit more. And I have to mention the “notorious cuddle-slut” line; it cracked me up and honestly just made him even more lovable.
And then there’s Zaiper… what can I even say? Will he ever change? Probably not. I actually felt sorry for him at one point in this book; but that didn’t last long. He’s such a complicated character, and I both love and loathe him.
I loved the small appearances from original characters like Livia and Herold. Livia’s warmth still shines through, and Herold… I adore him. I definitely wish we had more chapters with him; he’s one of my favourites. I’ll be devastated if anything happens to him in the final book. My heart isn’t ready!
There were a few minor spelling, grammar, and layout issues in my Kindle version, but they didn’t distract from the story or affect my overall experience too much.
And then… that ending! I audibly gasped. I couldn’t believe it ended where it did! The final twist was shocking in the best way. The additional ending had me nervous (the author’s note definitely made me think), but I found it wasn’t as intense as I expected; nowhere near as graphic or explicit as parts of book one.
This world continues to grow more complex and fascinating, with rich lore and layered characters that I’m still thinking about. Kiss Lilani has created a fantasy world that’s sexy, emotional, magical, sometimes confusing… and completely addictive.
This book adds even more depth to the series, and I cannot wait for the final installment. Buckle up, everyone… I think we’re in for one wild ride!
Uhhh... I admit, I have a silly and lifetime consuming habit of always finishing books I've started, no matter how damn bad they are.... I would love to have the option to give 0 stars! What is wrong with this author. Even a touted ideal relationship that MCs strive for is basically characterized by rape and the exclusive gratification of the man. She has to present herself (ass up, genitals exposed) so he can fuck her at will (brutally, violently) until he is satisfied. A no is not possible and of course she likes it. And again, if the sex scenes were at least described well and imaginatively. But no - it's always the same flat, unimaginative in-and-out .... On top the story is full of loopholes: By now I'm getting really aggressive and pissed off. It's just no fun anymore - luckily I only have 30 pages left in the 4th book. But my enthusiasm is long gone. Conclusion: The timeline poses big problems for the author. She is unable to compare the short lifespans of humans with those of the urukai. It's constantly portrayed as if centuries have passed, but it's only been 2 lousy years. This doesn't all add up (another loophole...). There is also no mention of the cruel slavery and the misdeeds of the overseers anymore. Regardless of how I look at it, the storyline is unrounded and only half thought through. The MCs would have had so many opportunities to develop alongside their males, but well...
The content: 2 years have passed. The king has retreated to die out of guilt and remorse, while the 3rd lord wants to give in to his beast and give up his humanity. Note: Beings who live for thousands of years (the king is 5.000, the 3rd lord is 3.000), but now 2 years is enough to destroy a kingdom....Enough time for the secret villain and schemer to torment the kingdom and prepare a coup. Therefore, the bodyguards of the two lords and the 4th lord decide to go against the royal degree: bring back the two human princesses to Urei - as free citizens, as guests of the royal court. In general, everything repeats itself again and again... The king comes back and goes mad again, etc. Both princesses are absolutely devoted to their mates. Only for satisfaction. The 2nd lord continues to scheme, to murder, to kill, to device... Nobody learns anything... Everyone is blind and is totally surprised when something happens again etc...What pissed me off the most was that there were no consequences. Assassination attempts- it's ok.
I was so pissed off halfway through the last book that it felt necessary to write the review of book 1-3 - otherwise I think I would have thrown my iPad against the wall ;))
I really like these books, they’re just toooooooo loooonnnggggg. Some scenes are unnecessary and just add fluff that has already been shared or surmised. I like the writing, and this is undoubtedly becoming one of my favorite authors, but honestly, these books don’t need to be this long.
I like the relationship between Daemon and Riel, and Vlad and Keira. It’s wonderful to watch both blossoming after what the sisters have been through. But Lawwwdddd can we PLEASE get to the point without the extra descriptors and flashbacks and fluff!!!
I’ll read the next one, cause I need to know what happens next, but I struggled to finish this one, so I hope it doesn’t drag on.
There are a ton of mistakes in the worrying of Ms. Kiss' book. Felt rushed at the end and lots of hop around of the plot. I had trouble trying to stay focused and my Adhd was triggered. I usually read because it helps me focus on a single topic. Although stories are framed and layered there is usually organization. The first book wasn't this bad the 4th one started throwing in so much oddly worded tone, I put it down a lot. It was like stumbling on a side walk. I don't romance novels and decided to give this a try. I wish it had been better written to make me want to read more. But I don't think I will. Sci-fi and crime fiction are going to be my bread and butter.
The third installment of The Beast of Wrath and Madness is by far the most emotional one yet. It beautifully captures the long-awaited reunion of both couples, finally finding solace in each other’s arms. But even in these tender moments, challenges remain. Especially concerning the health of the men we’ve come to love. And just when things seem to be settling, a silent threat still looms in the shadows. This book had me fully invested from start to finish. Heartbreaking, heartfelt, and gripping all at once.
4.25 stars. This book in the series so far is my least favorite. I found myself losing interest in the story 3/4 of the way through. The plot is getting a bit repetitive now with everyone just trying to kill or incapacitate the two main characters. I feel like the author should have changed the plot to involve the humans or another land instead of a similar conflict within their people. Although I loved the overall series and the authors writing, I don’t think I’ll finish the series by starting book 4.
I’m addicted to this story and will be eagerly awaiting April 9th. The last 5% was heartbreaking but I think recoverable with a lot of patience and grovel considering past events. I also think, as annoyingly face punchy as I feel when reading the villains POV’s it really helps get you invested to hate them even more, so I’m really hoping for a good comeuppance in the last book.
This has been my favorite of them all so far. Daemon and Vladya needed a good reality check and it seems they both got it (and a little more). Emeriel and Aekeira’s growth during their time apart was excellent, though it was a little sad to see Emeriel drop her whole badass routine once she and Daemon were trying again. She can still be a badass and I wish we’d seen more of that. Did I need the final chapters? No. Did it need to happen to add tension and move the story along? Also no.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
That was absolutely BRUTAL. I had to stop myself from finishing the book so early because I just knew the ending would destroy me. You know it’s bad when the author gives you a warning before moving to the last chapters. I’m so glad I kept myself from reading the last few chapters until now when the next book comes out tomorrow. Just one sleep and I’ll find out what happens next.
So far this book was by far my favorite out of the 3. The emotion in it was so good it actually made me feel for the MMC and FMC. Idk if it’s cause the first two books were meh but we see a different side of the MMC but idk I really devoured this book and finished it probably within 6 hours . And there was a lot less sex in it which made for a better book in my opinion
This entire series is different from any I have read before. It’s refreshing that this book is not a typical shifter romance. The only negative comment I have is related to how long each of these stories are. It takes forever to get anywhere and seems like it some circumstances in the book are repetitive. Other than that, I really recommend reading the series.
My feelings are all over the place. How are we going to come back from this? The ending in this book was a rough one!!! The next book better be so damn good and fix everything that just went wrong because my mind is blown, right now. And I need a HEA after all this!!!
Again like the other two I have read this in 2 days. I couldn’t put it down!! Now I am patiently or not so patiently waiting for the fourth and final book!! I don’t want it to end either!
This book is a great love story and so intriguing, I could not stop reading and thinking about it. It is not for the faint of heart and has some hard things to read but it’s so worth the read! Amazing job to the author.
Probably the best book so far in the series, leaves you wanting to read the next just to make sure that the evil doers get exactly what is coming their way! Oh and slipping in the two tongues? That was different :D
Great mixture of world building, yearning, action, plotting, push&pull, and heatttttt. There are trigger warnings! So beware. But so worth all of. Beautifully written! Devoured this series💚
I can't wait to find out what happens next. A hell of a cliffhanger, but so intrigued with the back and forth of the entire story. So close yet so far.
holy groveling yes 🙌 the author also did an excellent job by putting an authors note toward the end to either end the book here and go to book 4, or proceed with caution. I fricken LOVE this series
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.