Raine has always been more of a warrior than a diplomat, but now she must use all of her charisma to bring the rivals of Arianthem together. Her close bonds with the all-female race of the Ha’kan ensure that alliance, but negotiations with the Empire go poorly until they receive an unexpected boost from a sultry ally. The reserved elven leader of the Alfar hints to Raine of cooperation, yet also hints that sexual conquest might be her price.
Events seem to sabotage the alliance as the Alfar leader kidnaps an imperial, the daughter of the wealthiest landholder in Arianthem. Raine is baffled by the strange actions of the elven noblewoman, actions that bring the entire land to the brink of war. The concord truly unravels when Skye, the young leader of the Tavinter, manifests magical abilities and unintentionally attracts monumental evil. Raine’s only hope is that her dragon lover will return from the Empty Land before all is lost and the evil that stalks Skye comes for her.
4.5 star rating First book in the series ending with a cliffhanger and I like it. This story had less scenes of sexual exploits compared to its predecessors but still maintained its fascinating tales of it and every other, making it another good story telling overall in the series. Look forward to what's next.
This was great as per usual. I loved Raine's easy demeanor and her special way of diplomacy amongst the different clans. She's so blase it cracks me up. The rape of Kiren was disgusting though, and I hope we never encounter such scenes again in future books. Other than that... I love these group of strong, kick arse and sensual women.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
As much as I enjoyed the initial books in the series, I can't help but be dismayed by the increasing episodes of non-consensual sex, and the implication that the girls being abused (some very young) are convinced that this is an expression of their withheld desires. The books also seem to be getting shorter in length, so the story does not move very far in each book. Lovely to meet some of the old characters from the first book. Would have loved to see some deeper relationship & friendship building instead of
I have really enjoyed this series, but I am beginning to worry about some aspects of the books. They seem to advocate that kidnapping, rape, abuse and blackmail are OK if the abused person eventual comes to like them. I realise I don’t really understand BDSM, but the lack of initial consent and the rewarding of abusers in some of these stories, does make me feel uncomfortable.
I am concerned by some of the themes starting to grow through this series particularly in relation to lack of consent, it seems to be communicating that rape, date rape, and sex without consent is perfectly fine. It really is quite troubling. This is not okay regardless of the type of relationship- even a dom/sub relationship. I felt quite uncomfortable in the second book and this book #3 in the series seems to have taken it to a very disturbing place. In the world we live in, anything that promotes sex without consent is just not okay. Also, this book seemed to have no storyline at all until around 45% into the book, even at that point there was a real lack of direction. Definitely the worst in the series so far.
A deeper look into two additional characters Maeva and Kiren. Yes, there are trigger warnings. Those continue throughout the series. If you cannot comprehend that this is a fictional book, with fictional characters, in a fictional world, then this series and other dark fantasy books are not for you.
Maeva might have thought her encounter with Kiren was a one time thing but Kiren is much more than just a minor character. Not only does she possess Arlanian blood, but she is an absolute genius and the further this series progresses, the more we learn how important Kiren really is.
I was so excited when Skye and Sena had sex! I was waiting for it! I mean, that kiss in book two....the look Sena gave Skye....it was coming! it made me happy. in this book, we bounced through a lot of people... which was nice....ish. I don't know if I like Feyden's sister, though. The Alfar Ambassador. idk. BUT it was a good book
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Had to mark this down for two reasons. Firstly, like many other reviewers I am not real happy with some of the lack of consent/rape depicted - never good, never. Secondly, books are too short so nothing really happens - the story arc moves at a glacial pace. Losing enthusiasm for the series
This author has really improved since writing the first book in this series, which I also enjoyed, though not as much as subsequent titles. The Chronicles of Arianthem just keep getting better and better; the writing quality, the depth of the plot, the development of the characters. It's satisfying to witness the skill level just continuously rise. I highly recommend it for anyone who has read the previous books and is looking for a hot and steamy fantasy fix. I eagerly await the next installment! Can't wait to see what happens.
Things are starting to converge. Different talented and strong women are coming together and they are realizing that they need to prepare for what is coming. I don't know how they will defeat an evil goddess but I can't wait to read how they'll do it.