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Empire of Vengeance #2
City of Secrets and Shadows
Vengeance burns brighter than dragon fire in my blood.
Ten years a slave, I escaped the gladiator arena with nothing but hatred in my heart and a dragon at my command. Now I stand at the gates of the Dragon Elite Academy wearing a noblewoman's face—a mask to hide the warrior beneath.
My mission is get close to the Emperor, and make him pay for destroying my family.
What I never expected was to find myself surrounded by men who see past my carefully crafted lies.
Marcus — the older gladiator who taught me to fight and now risks everything to protect me.
Septimus — my brother's best friend whose touch ignites something I can't afford to feel.
Tarshi — half-Talfen, all danger, with golden eyes that haunt my dreams, a forbidden union that risks both our lives.
And now Jalend — an arrogant, infuriating noble whose smirk I want to slap off his face almost as much as I want to taste it. A dangerous attraction I can never act upon in case my secret is discovered.
Each night I share heated whispers and stolen moments with men who should be my enemies. Each day I play the perfect cadet, excelling in trials designed to break me, all while plotting the downfall of the very institution I'm infiltrating.
But as secrets about the war between humans and Talfen begin to surface, I'm forced to question what I'm truly fighting for.
The Empire took everything from me once. I won't let them take the three men who've claimed pieces of my heart—or deny the forbidden desire for a fourth who threatens my entire mission.
In a world of imperial politics and ancient magic, I don't have to choose. And neither do they.
Ten years a slave, I escaped the gladiator arena with nothing but hatred in my heart and a dragon at my command. Now I stand at the gates of the Dragon Elite Academy wearing a noblewoman's face—a mask to hide the warrior beneath.
My mission is get close to the Emperor, and make him pay for destroying my family.
What I never expected was to find myself surrounded by men who see past my carefully crafted lies.
Marcus — the older gladiator who taught me to fight and now risks everything to protect me.
Septimus — my brother's best friend whose touch ignites something I can't afford to feel.
Tarshi — half-Talfen, all danger, with golden eyes that haunt my dreams, a forbidden union that risks both our lives.
And now Jalend — an arrogant, infuriating noble whose smirk I want to slap off his face almost as much as I want to taste it. A dangerous attraction I can never act upon in case my secret is discovered.
Each night I share heated whispers and stolen moments with men who should be my enemies. Each day I play the perfect cadet, excelling in trials designed to break me, all while plotting the downfall of the very institution I'm infiltrating.
But as secrets about the war between humans and Talfen begin to surface, I'm forced to question what I'm truly fighting for.
The Empire took everything from me once. I won't let them take the three men who've claimed pieces of my heart—or deny the forbidden desire for a fourth who threatens my entire mission.
In a world of imperial politics and ancient magic, I don't have to choose. And neither do they.
452 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 1, 2025
61 people are currently reading
78 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
April 2, 2025
Elizabeth BlackthorneWhat did I just read!! When I say this was insane, I mean it. I didn't see any of the twist and turns this book had. I won't spoil the amazing work this book was. This left me NEEDING more! I have been in a slump since finishing this book. Hands down this series is going to be Elizabeth Blackthorne's BEST series yet!
Livia- Okay I see you and what you got going on...and I am here for it! I don't blame her for how she is feeling about everything. I am loving the way her character is growing and growing. Can't wait to see what is next for this Gladiator Noble. (Wink Wink)
Septimus-This man...this man right here has my head spinning. I don't know if I want to unalive him or kiss him. I am glad he finally come to some of his senses but time will tell for the rest. He is definitely keeping me on my toes.
Marcus-I knew it!!! (Won't explain it, you will just have to read it to understand) I love this man so much. The scene when he leaves and gathers the others was chefs kiss! I hope we get to see more that from him!
Tarshi-My sweet demon! I think I know what is going on with him! BUT this author has proven in the past that theories are just that theories. I will just have to keep reading to figure it out! I love his character, I am happy he is able to learn more and be with his other half. I can not wait to see his adventures and more of the alley scenes...PLEASE!! That was hot AF!
Our amazing dragon-I see you! I hope I am right about him! Such a good boy!
New characters we got in this book-I am on the fence. I like the character and but I am having trust issues at the moment. Our girl Livia has gone through some crap, and I hope her guard is up with this one, until we know more.
Antonius-Not cool of you Author!! Not cool at all! Where is my big man?!
The slump is real with this one. I thought the first one was exciting and mind blowing...HAHAHA the author definitely laughed in my face for that. This is such a must read for anyone that loves a strong female lead, questionable and sexy as sin men and a stinking BA dragon!? You need to read this for sure. This spice was ramped up in this one and so was the twist. Can't wait until book 3!
Livia- Okay I see you and what you got going on...and I am here for it! I don't blame her for how she is feeling about everything. I am loving the way her character is growing and growing. Can't wait to see what is next for this Gladiator Noble. (Wink Wink)
Septimus-This man...this man right here has my head spinning. I don't know if I want to unalive him or kiss him. I am glad he finally come to some of his senses but time will tell for the rest. He is definitely keeping me on my toes.
Marcus-I knew it!!! (Won't explain it, you will just have to read it to understand) I love this man so much. The scene when he leaves and gathers the others was chefs kiss! I hope we get to see more that from him!
Tarshi-My sweet demon! I think I know what is going on with him! BUT this author has proven in the past that theories are just that theories. I will just have to keep reading to figure it out! I love his character, I am happy he is able to learn more and be with his other half. I can not wait to see his adventures and more of the alley scenes...PLEASE!! That was hot AF!
Our amazing dragon-I see you! I hope I am right about him! Such a good boy!
New characters we got in this book-I am on the fence. I like the character and but I am having trust issues at the moment. Our girl Livia has gone through some crap, and I hope her guard is up with this one, until we know more.
Antonius-Not cool of you Author!! Not cool at all! Where is my big man?!
The slump is real with this one. I thought the first one was exciting and mind blowing...HAHAHA the author definitely laughed in my face for that. This is such a must read for anyone that loves a strong female lead, questionable and sexy as sin men and a stinking BA dragon!? You need to read this for sure. This spice was ramped up in this one and so was the twist. Can't wait until book 3!
August 2, 2025
3.5⭐
I enjoyed this book, though not as much as the first in the series. I really liked the vengeance and academy plotlines despite them being a bit repetitive at times. There were a few issues I had with the story, especially the fmc’s negative character development and the new mm relationship dynamic. Livia claims to love Tarshi but then rejects him and hides her relationship with him from everyone. This really surprised me in a negative way and felt inconsistent with her character from book one.
I wish there had been more direct and clear communication between the fmc and her love interests about the vengeance plans and their relationship dynamics. I usually enjoy mm in why choose romantasy books, but I didn’t enjoy it in this story. Septimus looks down on Tarshi, sees him as a monster and constantly insults him. Then, all of a sudden he develops a sexual relationship with Tarshi while still treating him the same and not being honest about his feelings. I understand that he was raised to believe the neighbouring country was evil and inferior, but this dynamic really annoyed me. I really hope that there will be less miscommunication in the next book and that Septimus will overcome his prejudices and redeem himself.
I didn’t expect the plot twist at the end at all, which was amazing and definitely makes me want to continue the series!
I enjoyed this book, though not as much as the first in the series. I really liked the vengeance and academy plotlines despite them being a bit repetitive at times. There were a few issues I had with the story, especially the fmc’s negative character development and the new mm relationship dynamic. Livia claims to love Tarshi but then rejects him and hides her relationship with him from everyone. This really surprised me in a negative way and felt inconsistent with her character from book one.
I wish there had been more direct and clear communication between the fmc and her love interests about the vengeance plans and their relationship dynamics. I usually enjoy mm in why choose romantasy books, but I didn’t enjoy it in this story. Septimus looks down on Tarshi, sees him as a monster and constantly insults him. Then, all of a sudden he develops a sexual relationship with Tarshi while still treating him the same and not being honest about his feelings. I understand that he was raised to believe the neighbouring country was evil and inferior, but this dynamic really annoyed me. I really hope that there will be less miscommunication in the next book and that Septimus will overcome his prejudices and redeem himself.
I didn’t expect the plot twist at the end at all, which was amazing and definitely makes me want to continue the series!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 6, 2025
Well that ending was unexpected 🐉. This series has sucked me in.
April 5, 2025
In City of Secrets and Shadows, Livia goes from gladiator to cadet. I enjoy the academy setting; there are trials, your typical mean girls, and more. However, if Livia thought it was safe, she needed to think again. I was not surprised to find that the academy was just like the arena; the same people, except they wore the face of a noble.
The trials Liv had to go through were exciting, but what I really found interesting was the history between the Talfen people and the Empire. It's dark and wrapped in a conspiracy. The more I learn about the Talfens, the more my heart goes out to their people. Something is most definitely brewing; I can feel it. Between that and Liv's revenge plot, I can't help but feel the tension. Speaking of tension, why can Liv's harem come together more smoothly? There have been a lot of relationship developments. Some were interesting, while others I'm not a fan of. Liv has disappointed me with some of her decisions concerning her relationships. Hopefully, they get it together soon, although I don't think I'll ever like Septimus.
There were two incredible plot twists. The first was shocking, while the second completely upended my world. Like, what? What! That twist was one of the best cliffhangers Elizabeth Blackthore has ever written. Completely changed the game. Where the story goes from here, I can only guess.
The trials Liv had to go through were exciting, but what I really found interesting was the history between the Talfen people and the Empire. It's dark and wrapped in a conspiracy. The more I learn about the Talfens, the more my heart goes out to their people. Something is most definitely brewing; I can feel it. Between that and Liv's revenge plot, I can't help but feel the tension. Speaking of tension, why can Liv's harem come together more smoothly? There have been a lot of relationship developments. Some were interesting, while others I'm not a fan of. Liv has disappointed me with some of her decisions concerning her relationships. Hopefully, they get it together soon, although I don't think I'll ever like Septimus.
There were two incredible plot twists. The first was shocking, while the second completely upended my world. Like, what? What! That twist was one of the best cliffhangers Elizabeth Blackthore has ever written. Completely changed the game. Where the story goes from here, I can only guess.
March 30, 2025
4.5 *
This is one of those books where my rating evolved while reading, regularly switching between four and five stars. There are some things I really loved about this second book in the series: the bond between Livia and Sirrax, the tenacity and resilience of Livia, the new relationship that’s developing between Livia and a new beau, and the worldbuilding. I really love this fantasy world, and all the people within, the dynamics between them and how Livia and her newfound family are navigating them.
Most of the other characters I either love or feel neutral about, but there is one exception: Septimus. I can’t help it, he already rubbed me the wrong way in book one and that feeling definitely continues in book two. Most of the times where my rating dropped while reading were because of him, and how he seems to push Tarshi out of the story. I’m not a big fan of the dynamic between the both of them at the moment, but I’m hopeful that might still change.
All in all though, I’m enjoying this series, and definitely looking forward to see what book three will bring. While the ending of this second book wasn’t totally unexpected to me (I caught the hint…), I’m still really excited to see what this will mean for the rest of the series, and for Livia’s harem.
This is one of those books where my rating evolved while reading, regularly switching between four and five stars. There are some things I really loved about this second book in the series: the bond between Livia and Sirrax, the tenacity and resilience of Livia, the new relationship that’s developing between Livia and a new beau, and the worldbuilding. I really love this fantasy world, and all the people within, the dynamics between them and how Livia and her newfound family are navigating them.
Most of the other characters I either love or feel neutral about, but there is one exception: Septimus. I can’t help it, he already rubbed me the wrong way in book one and that feeling definitely continues in book two. Most of the times where my rating dropped while reading were because of him, and how he seems to push Tarshi out of the story. I’m not a big fan of the dynamic between the both of them at the moment, but I’m hopeful that might still change.
All in all though, I’m enjoying this series, and definitely looking forward to see what book three will bring. While the ending of this second book wasn’t totally unexpected to me (I caught the hint…), I’m still really excited to see what this will mean for the rest of the series, and for Livia’s harem.
December 8, 2025
Both of these books so far have been fun, quick reads.
I'm not entirely sure how positively I feel about the harem getting bigger and bigger, as I tend to dislike big harems because we don't get to hear from many of the characters very often. (Even case in point in this book, we barely get a Tarshi chapter.) For the main MMCs, I'm still a little split on whether I like Septimus, although he mellows out a bit by the end. Marcus is....I'm honestly not quite sure I understand his purpose. Yes, he's kind and mellow and protective, but I'm not sure he's helping the FMC grow at all? I don't know...again...we barely hear from him throughout the whole book.
The twist at the end is something else!
I need a little fantasy break so I'm going to read something more modern, but then dive right into the third book.
I'm not entirely sure how positively I feel about the harem getting bigger and bigger, as I tend to dislike big harems because we don't get to hear from many of the characters very often. (Even case in point in this book, we barely get a Tarshi chapter.) For the main MMCs, I'm still a little split on whether I like Septimus, although he mellows out a bit by the end. Marcus is....I'm honestly not quite sure I understand his purpose. Yes, he's kind and mellow and protective, but I'm not sure he's helping the FMC grow at all? I don't know...again...we barely hear from him throughout the whole book.
The twist at the end is something else!
I need a little fantasy break so I'm going to read something more modern, but then dive right into the third book.
August 6, 2025
Better than the first
I enjoyed this book more than the first. There was a few chapters where I skimmed since the sex scenes were so long, but we finally got to see Septimous and Tarshi. That ending, I was so surprised to find out her dragon Sirrax is actually a Talfen. Which makes so much sense! I really hope Jalend is on Livia’s side of taking down the empire…. Work for peace. Now that Livia has been accepted into the academy, she’s one step closer to vengeance and working towards peace which is why her parents were murdered. They wanted peace and the Emperor wants domination and to kill all Talfen. I’m glad I read this one, even tho I barely finished the first book. So glad Marcus and Tavia found Livia, Tarshi and Septimous in the capital.
I enjoyed this book more than the first. There was a few chapters where I skimmed since the sex scenes were so long, but we finally got to see Septimous and Tarshi. That ending, I was so surprised to find out her dragon Sirrax is actually a Talfen. Which makes so much sense! I really hope Jalend is on Livia’s side of taking down the empire…. Work for peace. Now that Livia has been accepted into the academy, she’s one step closer to vengeance and working towards peace which is why her parents were murdered. They wanted peace and the Emperor wants domination and to kill all Talfen. I’m glad I read this one, even tho I barely finished the first book. So glad Marcus and Tavia found Livia, Tarshi and Septimous in the capital.
July 23, 2025
Spoilers Ahead......
This series is definitely unique! I like the historical Roman aspect mixed with fantasy. I felt a bit confused with the passing of time in this series I couldn't tell if a day or a week passed. I also felt live the whole vengeance plot was a bit repetitive. And as much as I love the growing harem and watching it all play out I hate Livia's justification for hiding her relationship with the sweetest and most accepting of the bunch!! Livia sending him away completely changed how I seen her character and now I dont know how to look past it! I think we need more about everything going on with the Talfen especially after that ending!!
This series is definitely unique! I like the historical Roman aspect mixed with fantasy. I felt a bit confused with the passing of time in this series I couldn't tell if a day or a week passed. I also felt live the whole vengeance plot was a bit repetitive. And as much as I love the growing harem and watching it all play out I hate Livia's justification for hiding her relationship with the sweetest and most accepting of the bunch!! Livia sending him away completely changed how I seen her character and now I dont know how to look past it! I think we need more about everything going on with the Talfen especially after that ending!!
April 3, 2025
First off what have i just read and I need more of it. City of severity and shadows is book 2 other Empire of Vengence Series by Elizabeth Blackthorne.
That ending was amazing and has left me wanting ting more and impatiently waiting for the next book in the series.
I love how the characters have grown since book one. The character's growth in book 2 spoke volumes for the main characters Livia, Septimus, Marcus and Tarshi and thier relationship grew so much. I look forward to seeing what happens next in book 3.
That ending was amazing and has left me wanting ting more and impatiently waiting for the next book in the series.
I love how the characters have grown since book one. The character's growth in book 2 spoke volumes for the main characters Livia, Septimus, Marcus and Tarshi and thier relationship grew so much. I look forward to seeing what happens next in book 3.
April 19, 2025
4.5 stars
I'm thoroughly enjoying this series, and book two was a great addition. Trials, an academy, dragons, secrecy and twists, as well as new characters? This was an intriguing and fun read.
I'm conflicted with my opinions of the men in her life. Her relationships with each men is different, but they don't get along, and it seems like one would just prefer the others left her alone entirely (which I doubt would happen). It's not a harmonious relationship, that's for sure.
Now - that ending?! I need book three. I have to see what this means going forward!
I'm thoroughly enjoying this series, and book two was a great addition. Trials, an academy, dragons, secrecy and twists, as well as new characters? This was an intriguing and fun read.
I'm conflicted with my opinions of the men in her life. Her relationships with each men is different, but they don't get along, and it seems like one would just prefer the others left her alone entirely (which I doubt would happen). It's not a harmonious relationship, that's for sure.
Now - that ending?! I need book three. I have to see what this means going forward!
April 4, 2025
Wow! This is the second book in the series, and man! Livia has really grown in this book. She's had to face fears and come to terms with who she is and what she needs to be. Septimus has done some growing in this book as well, although he still has a ways to go. Tarshi and Marcus are still as loving and supportive as in book 1. There are also some mystery men that come into her life, but I won't spoil it! Just watch that cliffy; it came out of nowhere and slapped me silly.
September 12, 2025
Livia escapes being a gladiator to become a cadet at the Dragon Elite Academy. She has one goal in mind: make the Emperor pay for what he did. Marcus, Septimus, and Tarshi are by her side, helping to protect and support her. Jalend is a noble she is attracted to, but can't afford to fall for. She will not let the Empire take anything else from her.
March 29, 2025
Wow, that ending! I literally don't know what to day, i need more!
Livia, Septimus, Marcus and Tarshi really developed in book 2. Their strength, stories and chemistry had me on the edge of my seats.
I'm so ready to see where book 3 takes us!!
Livia, Septimus, Marcus and Tarshi really developed in book 2. Their strength, stories and chemistry had me on the edge of my seats.
I'm so ready to see where book 3 takes us!!
April 6, 2025
Wow. This was a really good second book. Really makes you think you know what's going to happen next and try to figure it out for yourself. And the stuff she threw at us through this book I cannot wait to read the final book and find out what happens and how it ends up. I feel like this started with two men then we progressed the three men now we might be at 4 maybe 5 I don't know.
April 11, 2025
This is such a great Series!!! Livia, is such a strong FMC with flaws. Livia, and with the help of her men and Dragon they are determined to bring down those who have wronged her people.. I received a copy of a advanced reader copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 4, 2025
Oh my lanta, this is a fantastic addition and some of those twists, girl, they epically surprising! I enjoyedthe first book and loved book two and I cannot to see what is in store for us!
April 19, 2025
I did not see that ending coming 🤯🤯
August 11, 2025
Wow this series just gets better. I'm loving the character progression, but I wasn't expecting that ewownding, I can't wait to get stuck into the next book.
April 25, 2025
Where’s the rest of the book?!? Why did it just end like that?! Holy fucking shit, Batman!!! I freaking knew it!! Damn it, I need more! I freaking love this series, and you can’t tell me anything against that I will not hear it!! Seriously, read this series, and I’ll be contemplating life until book 3 hits 🙃
September 28, 2025
We start from where book 1 finished with Livia, Septimus & Tarshi riding on the back of a dragon and escaping the arena.
Livia ends up in an academy and there are trials she must face. She goes under a different name so she can get closer to the Emperor. She still wants revenge for her brothers death.
The relationships between the characters develop nicely. We meet new characters and we learn more about the Talfens.
The cliffhanger at the end leaves you wanting more.
Livia ends up in an academy and there are trials she must face. She goes under a different name so she can get closer to the Emperor. She still wants revenge for her brothers death.
The relationships between the characters develop nicely. We meet new characters and we learn more about the Talfens.
The cliffhanger at the end leaves you wanting more.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews