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The Golden Key Legacy #3
A Wizard Rises
The homecoming celebration held in honor of Princess Faedrah is fraught with perilous frustration. Her nightmares have returned thricefold and, to her horror, a horrendous blight has spread like a plague throughout the kingdom. Compounding her worries, Rhys’ arrival in her world has been welcomed with the exact horror-filled reaction she expected. Her beloved has been cast into the dungeons, and no amount of arguing with the king and queen will prove he’s her fated love.
Magical powers were supposed to be a gift, or so Rhys McEleod had always believed. Too bad the second he landed in Faedrah’s world the legacy he inherited slammed into his body like a weight. He’s got zero control and his constant visions of Faedrah fighting an evil entity aren’t helping. At least her parents made the right decision and stuck him away someplace safe. Until he can figure out his next move, prove himself an ally and uncover the clues to stopping Faedrah’s nightmares, he’s got no choice but to wait…and learn exactly what he’s become.
Magical powers were supposed to be a gift, or so Rhys McEleod had always believed. Too bad the second he landed in Faedrah’s world the legacy he inherited slammed into his body like a weight. He’s got zero control and his constant visions of Faedrah fighting an evil entity aren’t helping. At least her parents made the right decision and stuck him away someplace safe. Until he can figure out his next move, prove himself an ally and uncover the clues to stopping Faedrah’s nightmares, he’s got no choice but to wait…and learn exactly what he’s become.
106 pages, ebook
First published January 29, 2015
1 person is currently reading
175 people want to read
About the author
A.J. Nuest
20 books669 followersMulti-published, award winning author, AJ Nuest resides in a small farming community in NW Indiana. A wife, mother and freelance editor, she shares her home with a variety of spoiled-rotten pets. She and the cat are currently vying for dictatorship.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
January 17, 2015
I do love when the dashing knight in shining armor has a little tarnish on his breastplate! Oh wait; when Rhys meets Princess Faedrah’s parents, he isn’t wearing anything! Darn that dimension shift into the Austiere Kingdom. For Rhys and Faedrah, this turned out to be the least of their problems as Rhys’ legacy as a wizard roars to life with an uncontrollable blast. His evil father continues to batter and spread blight over the kingdom and Rhys must prove that he is NOT like his despicable father, if he isn’t killed, first. Even more important, he must prove his love for Faedrah to her family, one royal at a time.
Meanwhile, Faedrah is still suffering from the nightly assaults from Gaelleod as he pushes for his greatest prize, the key to controlling Austiere. Only one man can save her from her nightmares, only one man holds the secret to her protection. Could it be that a little wizardry and a whole lot of love is the real key to Austiere’s future?
From cover to cover A Wizard Rises by A. J. Nuest is going to toy with your heart. If you aren’t overheating from Rhys’ attitude, seeing him through Faedrah’s eyes or seeing him wear his heart on his sleeve, then the meltdown will come when these two set off enough sparks to light a roman candle! Speaking of sparks, Faedrah is one brilliantly brave young woman, a role model for princess-wannabes everywhere! Not only does Ms. Nuest take us through another dimensional journey, but we are actually inside the hearts and minds of her characters and I have to say, Rhys’ mind? Priceless! Pure testosterone driven hero, even if his heroine has to make the final save! Meeting the King and Queen? Gives a whole new twist to those worst nightmares, ever!
I laughed, I wanted to swoon, I chuckled, I got ticked, especially when the last page came up, so I read it again, just to prolong the story, prolong the journey and avoid reality for a little while longer. I think A.J. Nuest has found the KEY to my reader’s heart, cut to the chase, the romance, the tension, the heat, the fantasy, and oh yes, the romance!
I received an ARC edition from HarperImpulse in exchange for my honest review.
Series: The Golden Key Legacy - Book 3
Publication Date: January 29, 2015
Publisher: HarperImpulse
ISBN: 9780008123123
Genre: Romantic Fantasy
Print Length: 106 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Reviewed for: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Meanwhile, Faedrah is still suffering from the nightly assaults from Gaelleod as he pushes for his greatest prize, the key to controlling Austiere. Only one man can save her from her nightmares, only one man holds the secret to her protection. Could it be that a little wizardry and a whole lot of love is the real key to Austiere’s future?
From cover to cover A Wizard Rises by A. J. Nuest is going to toy with your heart. If you aren’t overheating from Rhys’ attitude, seeing him through Faedrah’s eyes or seeing him wear his heart on his sleeve, then the meltdown will come when these two set off enough sparks to light a roman candle! Speaking of sparks, Faedrah is one brilliantly brave young woman, a role model for princess-wannabes everywhere! Not only does Ms. Nuest take us through another dimensional journey, but we are actually inside the hearts and minds of her characters and I have to say, Rhys’ mind? Priceless! Pure testosterone driven hero, even if his heroine has to make the final save! Meeting the King and Queen? Gives a whole new twist to those worst nightmares, ever!
I laughed, I wanted to swoon, I chuckled, I got ticked, especially when the last page came up, so I read it again, just to prolong the story, prolong the journey and avoid reality for a little while longer. I think A.J. Nuest has found the KEY to my reader’s heart, cut to the chase, the romance, the tension, the heat, the fantasy, and oh yes, the romance!
I received an ARC edition from HarperImpulse in exchange for my honest review.
Series: The Golden Key Legacy - Book 3
Publication Date: January 29, 2015
Publisher: HarperImpulse
ISBN: 9780008123123
Genre: Romantic Fantasy
Print Length: 106 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Reviewed for: http://tometender.blogspot.com
November 27, 2014
Was honored to beta read this. Reviews to come once released.
January 21, 2015
This was an exciting read by an author that was new to me! I want to start off by saying that I had no idea that this was a serial before I started the book (my mistake) and so the first chapter I was playing catch up and trying to figure out what was going on. (I WILL be going back to read the first two installments because this one was so good.) That being said, I really enjoyed this book. It starts off exactly where I am assuming the last one left off, and we see Rhys & Faedrah in a bit of a perilous situation, and under duress. The story progresses from there and this installment finds Rhys understanding and honing his powers, Faedrah standing up to her family, and their love growing stronger. I always find myself drawn to a good love story, but I need hearty plot too or the book just feels too one-dimensional. In serials in the past I have found each installment has either love scenes or plot. This installment had it all, and well written to boot!
Even though this was my first foray into The Golden Key Legacy I fell in love with Rhys. He is a mans man. Strong, loyal, crass, but madly in love with his lady. He isn't a doormat for her to walk all over, but a true partner. Who doesn't love that?
Overall, if you like fantasy books, or enjoy serials I would check this series out! The installments themselves are priced very well and meaty as far as content and storyline goes. I'll definitely be checking out more books by A.J. Nuest.
Even though this was my first foray into The Golden Key Legacy I fell in love with Rhys. He is a mans man. Strong, loyal, crass, but madly in love with his lady. He isn't a doormat for her to walk all over, but a true partner. Who doesn't love that?
Overall, if you like fantasy books, or enjoy serials I would check this series out! The installments themselves are priced very well and meaty as far as content and storyline goes. I'll definitely be checking out more books by A.J. Nuest.
January 24, 2015
I just finished the ARC of the third installment of A.J. Nuest's The Gold Key Legacy Series - A Wizard Rises - and I've been in a right tailspin the last three days. I have two words about this tantalizing tale: PURE.GENIUS. Rhys and Faedrah jump back through the veil hoping to outrun the evil Galleod, and wouldn't you know? All hell breaks loose! However, there were twists and turns that I didn't see coming, and it kept me on the edge of my seat from start to finish. From the Golden Key Chronicles to the Golden Key Legacy, AJ's epic tale just keeps getting better, and she's thought of everything. The plot of this series is so well-thought out, when the author revealed Rhys' "epiphany" (no spoilers here), it was so enchantingly brilliant I nearly cried! That kind of love, the ultimate sacrifice Rhys is willing to make because he loves Faedrah with every breath of his beating heart...isn't that what we women want? When I got to the last page, I cried once more...because now I have to WAIT to find out what happens next. As I've posted before, I love this author's writing style; it's fast-paced, action-packed, and she develops these characters with such precision you become emotionally involved in their "lives". For me, character development makes or breaks a good book, and AJ Nuest is a master at drawing readers into her stories. And now, I await on tenterhooks for the final book in this series and the HEA that hopefully awaits Rhys and Faedrah in Austiere or beyond.
January 27, 2015
4.5 star review... This book not being a 5 star review is my fault, not the author's. This is actually the 3rd installment of the series. I have not read the first two installments (which I will be rectifying that!) so there's some back story that I didn't have... but it did not stop me from enjoying the book.
Rhys is a modern day gifted artist. Faedrah is a princess of an ancient time. Faedrah's kingdom is in true danger... from Ryhs's dad, Leo. He means to save her and help her save her kingdom. From the moment they arrived in her world, Rhys has had a hard time to say the least. It did not help that the first time he meets her parents he's wearing nothing but a bed sheet!
It's a quick read and it keeps you enthralled to every bit of her world and how does he fit in it. I loved that the author made Faedrah a strong female character and not someone that always needs saving. This book was great!
Rhys is a modern day gifted artist. Faedrah is a princess of an ancient time. Faedrah's kingdom is in true danger... from Ryhs's dad, Leo. He means to save her and help her save her kingdom. From the moment they arrived in her world, Rhys has had a hard time to say the least. It did not help that the first time he meets her parents he's wearing nothing but a bed sheet!
It's a quick read and it keeps you enthralled to every bit of her world and how does he fit in it. I loved that the author made Faedrah a strong female character and not someone that always needs saving. This book was great!
January 27, 2015
I received a arc copy of this book from the author for an honest review.
Faedrah and Rhys escape from Gaelleod with the help of Nate. Jumping through the mirror they return to Faedrah's home. Rhys knows it most likely not going to go well for him once they learn that he is the son of Gaelleod. It is going to take a lot to prove he is nothing like his father and that his love for Faedrah is real. Rhys quickly realizes he needs to go along with what ever they throw at him so he can get back to Faedrah. With Fandorn helping him control his magic and honing his skill with it, Rhys is slowly becoming a true wizard.
This series just blows me away. Such dimension in the characters. You have to love Rhys, what he will go through for Faedrah. Faedrah is more of a kick ass and ask questions late kind of women. Together there is no stopping them. Counting the days until the next book.
Faedrah and Rhys escape from Gaelleod with the help of Nate. Jumping through the mirror they return to Faedrah's home. Rhys knows it most likely not going to go well for him once they learn that he is the son of Gaelleod. It is going to take a lot to prove he is nothing like his father and that his love for Faedrah is real. Rhys quickly realizes he needs to go along with what ever they throw at him so he can get back to Faedrah. With Fandorn helping him control his magic and honing his skill with it, Rhys is slowly becoming a true wizard.
This series just blows me away. Such dimension in the characters. You have to love Rhys, what he will go through for Faedrah. Faedrah is more of a kick ass and ask questions late kind of women. Together there is no stopping them. Counting the days until the next book.
August 1, 2015
Nuest definitely tells this story with flair. Nuest’s vivid writing transports her readers into this absolutely magical fantasy world. The story is fast paced, exciting, and wildly imaginative. Nuest brings everything to life in a vividly real manner that is absolutely magical (excuse the pun). The author has such a natural writing style that she invites readers to take part in the story, rather than to simply read it. Her eloquent yet larger than life descriptions allow you to easily picture each and every aspect of this vividly colourful world.
I fully enjoyed the strength of character embodied by Rhys and Faedrah. The way that they stick to what they believe and stand with each other throughout, never losing faith. The chemistry & heat between the two also sizzle and pop. I love Rhys’ character. He’s such a pile of contradictions, and comes together in the ultimate bad-boy persona. Faedrah also really comes into her own during this one. Seeing her assert herself in a larger sense was fantastic. The secondary characters also helped make this story into what it was. The conflict and friendships, along with the individual personalities heighten the intensity of the story.
This novella was absolutely breathtaking and will be something that I re-read many times over. I can’t wait to see what comes next for my favourite fantasy couple. I’ll be pacing the floor waiting on the release of the final instalment in this unforgettable serial.
Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this work in exchange for an honest review.
I fully enjoyed the strength of character embodied by Rhys and Faedrah. The way that they stick to what they believe and stand with each other throughout, never losing faith. The chemistry & heat between the two also sizzle and pop. I love Rhys’ character. He’s such a pile of contradictions, and comes together in the ultimate bad-boy persona. Faedrah also really comes into her own during this one. Seeing her assert herself in a larger sense was fantastic. The secondary characters also helped make this story into what it was. The conflict and friendships, along with the individual personalities heighten the intensity of the story.
This novella was absolutely breathtaking and will be something that I re-read many times over. I can’t wait to see what comes next for my favourite fantasy couple. I’ll be pacing the floor waiting on the release of the final instalment in this unforgettable serial.
Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this work in exchange for an honest review.
January 29, 2015
If I could give this romance more than 5 stars I would. I can’t recommend this series highly enough. AJ Nuest’s voice blew me away in this magical adventure. I’m talking spellbound, folks. With an otherworld lilt that bordered on Shakespearean genius, the language seeped into my mind and transported me to a place of castles and magic, of honor and timeless love, and an evil that must be defeated. Go pick up your copy. You can thank me later.
March 5, 2015
NOW THE PORTAL OPENS FROM OUR WORLD TO AUSTIERE
so you think you are having a bad day--- ??? did you just take a leap of faith and follow your lady love through a magic mirror into a another world and time-- discover you are wearing not much more then a smile and hastily don a bed sheet as you meet her parents the king and queen of this land--- doing so with a headache that is clamping down like a vise and fingers feeling as though you had stuck them in an electrical socket- add wizard magic- you have no control over that activated soon as you arrived - throw in your father who is this realms biggest adversary and you have the next part of the golden key series legacy - in this book our hero rhys learns with the help of fandorn how to use and control his wizard powers-and slowly gains the trust of faedrah's family ---- meanwhile faedrah is still having disturbing night visions that have escalated into assaults - while trying to convince her parents to release rhys from the dungeon - so that they can determine a plan that will once and for all defeat his father gaellen- ------ that said i love aj's writing style... it is fast paced- with lots of action - hot and steamy romance with strong feisty females characters that do not need a man to save them but are smart enough to take help when offered- and strong honorable hunky men who will fight by their ladies side- --- aj nuest is able to pen a tale so involved and vivid that we want to be involved in her characters lives and want to know what happens to them - -- with descriptions of scenes so precise we can almost hear the clashing of steel and see the tapestries hanging on the castle walls- -- as usual the book ends with a cliffhanger- but happy to say -- a time of reckoning -- comes out feb- 26th which i have already pre -ordered for 99cent-- i will be sad this chapter of the golden legacy comes to an end but am hoping the series will continue- perhaps faedrah's brother vaighn will attract the attention of the mirror portal .
so you think you are having a bad day--- ??? did you just take a leap of faith and follow your lady love through a magic mirror into a another world and time-- discover you are wearing not much more then a smile and hastily don a bed sheet as you meet her parents the king and queen of this land--- doing so with a headache that is clamping down like a vise and fingers feeling as though you had stuck them in an electrical socket- add wizard magic- you have no control over that activated soon as you arrived - throw in your father who is this realms biggest adversary and you have the next part of the golden key series legacy - in this book our hero rhys learns with the help of fandorn how to use and control his wizard powers-and slowly gains the trust of faedrah's family ---- meanwhile faedrah is still having disturbing night visions that have escalated into assaults - while trying to convince her parents to release rhys from the dungeon - so that they can determine a plan that will once and for all defeat his father gaellen- ------ that said i love aj's writing style... it is fast paced- with lots of action - hot and steamy romance with strong feisty females characters that do not need a man to save them but are smart enough to take help when offered- and strong honorable hunky men who will fight by their ladies side- --- aj nuest is able to pen a tale so involved and vivid that we want to be involved in her characters lives and want to know what happens to them - -- with descriptions of scenes so precise we can almost hear the clashing of steel and see the tapestries hanging on the castle walls- -- as usual the book ends with a cliffhanger- but happy to say -- a time of reckoning -- comes out feb- 26th which i have already pre -ordered for 99cent-- i will be sad this chapter of the golden legacy comes to an end but am hoping the series will continue- perhaps faedrah's brother vaighn will attract the attention of the mirror portal .
January 29, 2015
Superb storyteller, word-weaving master A.J. Nuest has done it again…
Blown. Me. Away.
Her writing is poetic, and Faedrah is almost flowery in her speech, but its far from purple. I've mentioned before how much I love the MC's distinctive 14th / 15th century voice compared to the hero's 21st. Love!! And, it's always spot on.
Faedrah really steps up her game in this latest installment - stands up and lays down the law. Go girl! And Rhys the wizard. Sigh. What a bad ass. Love how he just accepts his lot - with laughter - and decides to own his heritage. Did I say bad ass? And yet he willingly submits to love, to Faedrah's desire and need for his protection.
Speaking of which, I had the solution to her dreams figured out almost from the beginning. I was a little disappointed both intelligent MCs took so long to grasp it, but I really can't complain. Didn't take away from the enrapturing story one bit.
Definitely recommend this read, of course! Wizard left me panting for A Time of Reckoning!!
Blown. Me. Away.
Her writing is poetic, and Faedrah is almost flowery in her speech, but its far from purple. I've mentioned before how much I love the MC's distinctive 14th / 15th century voice compared to the hero's 21st. Love!! And, it's always spot on.
Faedrah really steps up her game in this latest installment - stands up and lays down the law. Go girl! And Rhys the wizard. Sigh. What a bad ass. Love how he just accepts his lot - with laughter - and decides to own his heritage. Did I say bad ass? And yet he willingly submits to love, to Faedrah's desire and need for his protection.
Speaking of which, I had the solution to her dreams figured out almost from the beginning. I was a little disappointed both intelligent MCs took so long to grasp it, but I really can't complain. Didn't take away from the enrapturing story one bit.
Definitely recommend this read, of course! Wizard left me panting for A Time of Reckoning!!
January 30, 2015
Another masterpiece from AJ Nuest!!
This story starts where the previous one left off, so be sure to read the previous books (A Furious Muse and then The Sacrifice) so that this will make sense. In this book Rhys and Faedrah are faced with numerous obstacles, friends, family and of course Gaelleod and his many tricks. They are tested when they go to Faedrahs home, forced to show where Rhys' loyalty lies. Throughout it all, Faedrah is still being plagued by Gaelleod and decides that they need to go after him before he causes anymore destruction to her home and the surrounding lands.
I am quite sad that I have to wait for the next book to come out so that I can find out what happens next, but I'm sure that it will be worth the wait. Amazing work!!
This story starts where the previous one left off, so be sure to read the previous books (A Furious Muse and then The Sacrifice) so that this will make sense. In this book Rhys and Faedrah are faced with numerous obstacles, friends, family and of course Gaelleod and his many tricks. They are tested when they go to Faedrahs home, forced to show where Rhys' loyalty lies. Throughout it all, Faedrah is still being plagued by Gaelleod and decides that they need to go after him before he causes anymore destruction to her home and the surrounding lands.
I am quite sad that I have to wait for the next book to come out so that I can find out what happens next, but I'm sure that it will be worth the wait. Amazing work!!
February 7, 2015
This is the book I've apparently been waiting for. I love this series, but this book is my favorite. I can't say if it's the devotion of Rhys or the strength in Faedrah. I am for sure in love with Rhys though.
This book shows the struggles of the kingdom and how Rhys has his work cut out for him. He comes into his powers, the ones he genetically inherited but never knew. The fact that he is willing to risk everything for the woman he loves and continuously demonstrates this is the epitome of romance for me. The ending is still unresolved, but Rhys and Faedrah are together.
I can't say what i love best about this book. The book on a whole satisfies the part of me that wants to be a princess that needs a little saving, while being strong enough to make a stance for what matters most.
I can't wait for the last book.
This book shows the struggles of the kingdom and how Rhys has his work cut out for him. He comes into his powers, the ones he genetically inherited but never knew. The fact that he is willing to risk everything for the woman he loves and continuously demonstrates this is the epitome of romance for me. The ending is still unresolved, but Rhys and Faedrah are together.
I can't say what i love best about this book. The book on a whole satisfies the part of me that wants to be a princess that needs a little saving, while being strong enough to make a stance for what matters most.
I can't wait for the last book.
April 29, 2015
Review Courtesy of April Hollingworth
This is the third part in this phenomenal series and it is so good. Rhys’s and Faedrah’s relationship grows and evolves. The situations they find themselves in creates a bond of love and devotion to one another to blossom faster. Above all else, their desire to protect one another and the people of Faedrah’s kingdom is astounding and beautiful. I adore this series so much, and though I’m excited to read the final part next, at the same time, I almost don’t want to as I don’t want Faedrah’s and Rhys’s journey to end.
Opening Scene:
Far off in the distance, an eerie wail wound to a high-pitched shriek.
The Review:
The jump through the mirror is only the beginning of the perilous frustration Faedrah and Rhys deal with. Faedrah’s nightmares have not only returned they’ve intensified. Rhys arrival in her world is welcomed with the horror-filled reaction she’d expected, and cast into the dungeons. As for her beloved kingdom, the horrendous blight has spread like a rampant plague. Faedrah knows her kingdom needs her and Rhys to solve the problems, yet she can’t convince her parents the King and Queen to even release him from the dungeons.
Everything Rhys has ever believed has turned on its head and smacked him on the other side. The magical powers he’s been gifted with, he can’t control, a fact not helped by so much power slamming into him the second he arrived into Faedrah’s kingdom. It also doesn’t help that he’s having visions of Faedrah fighting an evil entity and he can’t help her or protect her. The only thing he’s thankful for is her parents made the decision to keep him in a safe place where he can’t do any harm. Now all he has to do is gain control of his powers, figure out his next move, somehow stop Faedrah’s nightmares and prove himself an ally, all while figuring out what exactly he’s become.
Notable Scene:
“Uh, oh…” Rhys smirked, shackled and strung up by heavy chains before a dark curtain shrouding the opposite wall, his teasing banter at complete odds with the unadulterated hatred in his eyes. “Sounds like the neighbors called the cops. You sure you want them busting in here to find you beating a defenseless woman?”
Faedrah widened her eyes, her jaw set to curtail an exasperated huff. What in all the sane reasoning was the bullheaded man doing? In his weakened state, any punishment he received could harm him thrice fold what she could endure.
Exactly as she’d feared, Gaelleod’s henchman altered his course, bore down upon Rhys and a loud crack tensed her muscles as he delivered a backhanded blow to her lover’s cheek. “Shut your fucking hole before I do it again.”
Rhys slowly turned his head to face the man, a droplet of blood beading on his bottom lip, and though his wrists remained bound overhead, his arms stretched to the limit of their extent, the man stumbled back from the weight of her beloved’s lethal gaze. “Hit me again, asshole. I dare you.”
FTC Advisory: A.J. Nuest provided me with a copy of A Wizard Rises by AJ Nuest. Published through Harper Impulse. Kindle Edition. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
This is the third part in this phenomenal series and it is so good. Rhys’s and Faedrah’s relationship grows and evolves. The situations they find themselves in creates a bond of love and devotion to one another to blossom faster. Above all else, their desire to protect one another and the people of Faedrah’s kingdom is astounding and beautiful. I adore this series so much, and though I’m excited to read the final part next, at the same time, I almost don’t want to as I don’t want Faedrah’s and Rhys’s journey to end.
Opening Scene:
Far off in the distance, an eerie wail wound to a high-pitched shriek.
The Review:
The jump through the mirror is only the beginning of the perilous frustration Faedrah and Rhys deal with. Faedrah’s nightmares have not only returned they’ve intensified. Rhys arrival in her world is welcomed with the horror-filled reaction she’d expected, and cast into the dungeons. As for her beloved kingdom, the horrendous blight has spread like a rampant plague. Faedrah knows her kingdom needs her and Rhys to solve the problems, yet she can’t convince her parents the King and Queen to even release him from the dungeons.
Everything Rhys has ever believed has turned on its head and smacked him on the other side. The magical powers he’s been gifted with, he can’t control, a fact not helped by so much power slamming into him the second he arrived into Faedrah’s kingdom. It also doesn’t help that he’s having visions of Faedrah fighting an evil entity and he can’t help her or protect her. The only thing he’s thankful for is her parents made the decision to keep him in a safe place where he can’t do any harm. Now all he has to do is gain control of his powers, figure out his next move, somehow stop Faedrah’s nightmares and prove himself an ally, all while figuring out what exactly he’s become.
Notable Scene:
“Uh, oh…” Rhys smirked, shackled and strung up by heavy chains before a dark curtain shrouding the opposite wall, his teasing banter at complete odds with the unadulterated hatred in his eyes. “Sounds like the neighbors called the cops. You sure you want them busting in here to find you beating a defenseless woman?”
Faedrah widened her eyes, her jaw set to curtail an exasperated huff. What in all the sane reasoning was the bullheaded man doing? In his weakened state, any punishment he received could harm him thrice fold what she could endure.
Exactly as she’d feared, Gaelleod’s henchman altered his course, bore down upon Rhys and a loud crack tensed her muscles as he delivered a backhanded blow to her lover’s cheek. “Shut your fucking hole before I do it again.”
Rhys slowly turned his head to face the man, a droplet of blood beading on his bottom lip, and though his wrists remained bound overhead, his arms stretched to the limit of their extent, the man stumbled back from the weight of her beloved’s lethal gaze. “Hit me again, asshole. I dare you.”
FTC Advisory: A.J. Nuest provided me with a copy of A Wizard Rises by AJ Nuest. Published through Harper Impulse. Kindle Edition. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
February 19, 2015
This novella picks up right where that shocking cliffhanger in novella two left us. Unfortunately, I would have like to see more action here at the beginning, don't get me wrong the novella takes a running start, I just felt like there was room for a bit more action. My favorite part about this novella is that we get to see a new level of devotion between Faedrah and Rhys. You can literally feel their relationship getting stronger. The development of Rhys as a character is really interesting. This novella feels like the middle of a book, but it should given the fact that this is a series. The novella is fast paced and thank the nine AJ included one of her staples, a steamy scene that makes you envious. The ending is perfect, leaves you wanting more and yet felt like a clean breaking point.
I received a copy of this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
I received a copy of this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
March 26, 2015
Faedrah and Rhys escape from Gaelleod with the help of Nate. Jumping through the mirror they return to Faedrah's home. Rhys knows it's not going to go well for him when they learn that he is the son of Gaelleod. It will take a lot to prove he is nothing like his father and that his love for Faedrah is real. Rhys quickly realizes he needs to go along with whatever they throw at him to prove his intentions are honorable. With Fandorn helping him control his magic and honing his skill with it, Rhys is slowly becoming a true wizard. Faedrah is still suffering from the nightly assaults from Gaelleod and only Rhys can help stop her nightmares.
January 25, 2015
Much more story progression and sexy times, and less of the annoying Rhys-snark.
April 27, 2015
So this is third installment of The Golden Key Legacy by A.J. Nuest. In this Faedrah and Rhys are going back to Faedrah's world and even if Rhys is doing everything possible to prove, that he is not a threat and all he wants to do is keep Faedrah safe and his father as far away as possible, almost nobody believes him and everybody expects him to be like his father. His only two ally are Faedrah and Fandorn, another wizard. While Faedrah is kept away from him, Fandorn tries to teach Rhys to learn and work with his magic that he has gotten from his father. But Leo has not left Faedrah alone. She still has extremely vivid nightmares and Rhys sees them with her, only he is awake at the time. The only thing that's protecting Faedrah is Rhys' signature and so Rhys covers her bedchamber walls with it. But since Leo has no more access to Faedrah he turns his malice elsewhere.
I would say it could be a good book, IF I could read all the parts together not months apart. The individual parts aren't so compelling that I would be willing to wait.
So not a bad read but not good either.
I would say it could be a good book, IF I could read all the parts together not months apart. The individual parts aren't so compelling that I would be willing to wait.
So not a bad read but not good either.
January 7, 2020
This review was originally posted on Star Crossed Reviews I received this book for free from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.Thank you to HarperImpulse for my copy of this book via Netgalley. I read parts 1 and 2 of this series in 2015 but I have only just managed to read part 3. As it has been such a long time I probably should have re-read them as I was struggling to remember what happened in the other 2 books.
In this book, I really felt for Faedrah and Rhys. Faedrah cannot sleep without terrible nightmares. The poor girl goes days without sleep because every time she closes her eyes she is tortured. If I do not get enough sleep I am a real grump so I can only imagine how Faedrah felt. Especially when everyone was ignoring her.
Rhys also had to endure Faedrah's nightmares through their connection but not only that he was locked in a cell through the whole thing. He couldn't even help her! I fell in love with Rhys all over again in this book. He is defiant in his mission to protect her.
This was a great addition to the series and I will definitely be finishing the final book before the end of the year.
In this book, I really felt for Faedrah and Rhys. Faedrah cannot sleep without terrible nightmares. The poor girl goes days without sleep because every time she closes her eyes she is tortured. If I do not get enough sleep I am a real grump so I can only imagine how Faedrah felt. Especially when everyone was ignoring her.
Rhys also had to endure Faedrah's nightmares through their connection but not only that he was locked in a cell through the whole thing. He couldn't even help her! I fell in love with Rhys all over again in this book. He is defiant in his mission to protect her.
This was a great addition to the series and I will definitely be finishing the final book before the end of the year.
August 26, 2015
I have to admit I’ve been a bit stuck on what to say for this review, because if you’ve already read Books 1 and 2, you pretty much just know Book 3 is going to be amazing. Nuest’s writing is flawlessly captivating, her characters are intricately woven and sexy as hell, the world building is fantastic in every sense of the word and the plot is the sort you couldn’t possibly put down even if an apocalypse was raging outside your bedroom window. Basically, I’m a rather big fan and Book 3 did not let me down.
In some ways, The Golden Key Legacy series is following a similar pattern to the Golden Key Chronicles, in so much as by Book 3, the honestly epic love between our hero and heroine has been well established by so much steamy, sexy, romantic deliciousness that one wonders whether one might need to see a doctor for all this swooning. Their internal crises appear(!) to have been dealt with and now they must contend with the building external drama – the plot of evil Gaelleod, driving Faedrah to sickness with nightmares as he gets closer to destroying the realm.
But Rhys has new problems. And this book is really all about Rhys. Is anyone complaining? Of course not. Because he is a sex god. Before Rhys and Faedrah can deal with Gaelleod and his approaching darkness, Rhys must learn to understand his new reality and work out how to control his suddenly extensive magical powers. It’s all very dramatic. Of course, being Rhys, he’s all up for being locked away for Faedrah’s protection until he can get himself sorted, which means that this is the first book we have more significant sections where Rhys and Faedrah are separated. I know! But don’t be sad because actually this book has two of my favorite scenes and the first is the most fabulous action scene as Rhys tries to utilize his powers in a duel with Vaighn. Oh Vaighn. So yes. That’s a thing that happens and it is amazing. The second of my favorite scenes I don’t want to spoil, but it’s so romantic and beautiful and magical and I was swooning all over again.
Usual warning for Nuestian Cliffhanger, but this time at least you know it’s coming.
I’m going to be devastated when this series is over.
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More reviews at: http://www.readingromance.com
In some ways, The Golden Key Legacy series is following a similar pattern to the Golden Key Chronicles, in so much as by Book 3, the honestly epic love between our hero and heroine has been well established by so much steamy, sexy, romantic deliciousness that one wonders whether one might need to see a doctor for all this swooning. Their internal crises appear(!) to have been dealt with and now they must contend with the building external drama – the plot of evil Gaelleod, driving Faedrah to sickness with nightmares as he gets closer to destroying the realm.
But Rhys has new problems. And this book is really all about Rhys. Is anyone complaining? Of course not. Because he is a sex god. Before Rhys and Faedrah can deal with Gaelleod and his approaching darkness, Rhys must learn to understand his new reality and work out how to control his suddenly extensive magical powers. It’s all very dramatic. Of course, being Rhys, he’s all up for being locked away for Faedrah’s protection until he can get himself sorted, which means that this is the first book we have more significant sections where Rhys and Faedrah are separated. I know! But don’t be sad because actually this book has two of my favorite scenes and the first is the most fabulous action scene as Rhys tries to utilize his powers in a duel with Vaighn. Oh Vaighn. So yes. That’s a thing that happens and it is amazing. The second of my favorite scenes I don’t want to spoil, but it’s so romantic and beautiful and magical and I was swooning all over again.
Usual warning for Nuestian Cliffhanger, but this time at least you know it’s coming.
I’m going to be devastated when this series is over.
---
More reviews at: http://www.readingromance.com
October 1, 2015
* Warning: book 3 & they must be read in order. Possible spoilers *
Faedrah and Rhys journey back to her time, albeit with trepidation. Rhys isn't exactly welcome with open arms; he is the son of the evil wizard, Galleod. And Rhys himself is a wizard, although he gets that bombshell dropped on him upon arrival.
I love the direction this series has taken. I didn't like Rhys in book 1, but he's proven himself to be honorable after all. He not only proves to Faedrah's (adopted) brother (technically cousin) Vaighn that he IS worthy of Faedrah after all. To be honest put in Vaighn's position I'd have made Rhys prove himself, too. I mean he just shows up from 500 yrs in the future and he's the son of THE enemy wizard. This book does, however question the ideal that the sins of the father are not necessarily the sins of the offspring.
While the queen is in Rhys's corner, the king is not. Of course he's overprotective of his daughter, but again, the sins of the father come into question. But Rhys and Faedrah's love for one another is never in question. In fact Rhys would rather die than let anything happen to her. She feels the same, and takes matters into her own hands.
That's another thing I love about these books. Faedrah (taking after her mother) isn't some weak, sniveling damsel in distress. F that! She puts everyone in their place, with words as well as actions. Most "heroines" in romance novels don't know Uranus from their own anus!
Rhys, unlike most alpha jerks in a lot of books nowadays, is proud of Faedrah's spine. He's proud to be by her side. Now THIS is how men should act. Send this series to students of "manhood 101"!
When he comes up with a sure fire way to protect Faedrah, his father goes after the people of the kingdom instead. Since Galleod is now drawing out the enemy, one only needs to move onto book 4 to see where it goes!
Faedrah and Rhys journey back to her time, albeit with trepidation. Rhys isn't exactly welcome with open arms; he is the son of the evil wizard, Galleod. And Rhys himself is a wizard, although he gets that bombshell dropped on him upon arrival.
I love the direction this series has taken. I didn't like Rhys in book 1, but he's proven himself to be honorable after all. He not only proves to Faedrah's (adopted) brother (technically cousin) Vaighn that he IS worthy of Faedrah after all. To be honest put in Vaighn's position I'd have made Rhys prove himself, too. I mean he just shows up from 500 yrs in the future and he's the son of THE enemy wizard. This book does, however question the ideal that the sins of the father are not necessarily the sins of the offspring.
While the queen is in Rhys's corner, the king is not. Of course he's overprotective of his daughter, but again, the sins of the father come into question. But Rhys and Faedrah's love for one another is never in question. In fact Rhys would rather die than let anything happen to her. She feels the same, and takes matters into her own hands.
That's another thing I love about these books. Faedrah (taking after her mother) isn't some weak, sniveling damsel in distress. F that! She puts everyone in their place, with words as well as actions. Most "heroines" in romance novels don't know Uranus from their own anus!
Rhys, unlike most alpha jerks in a lot of books nowadays, is proud of Faedrah's spine. He's proud to be by her side. Now THIS is how men should act. Send this series to students of "manhood 101"!
When he comes up with a sure fire way to protect Faedrah, his father goes after the people of the kingdom instead. Since Galleod is now drawing out the enemy, one only needs to move onto book 4 to see where it goes!
August 29, 2015
What's worse than having to travel to your muse's world via a magical armoire after running to fight another day from your maniacal father? Arriving naked and being arrested upon arrival. Rhys and Faedrah escaped to her world with the help of long time friend and art curator, Nate. Having no other choice but to travel once again through the magical armoire, Rhys hopes to earn the trust of the king and queen by using the map he memorized to find Gaelleod's tomb. Unfortunately it's going to take more than what he thought.
Fandorn the Wizard offers to take Rhys under his wing to train him to control and hone his powers. Rhys will do anything it takes to be able to be reunited with his muse, Faedrah.
The interaction between the king and queen is hilarious! The princess is cut from the same cloth as her strong willed mother and the combination of all the personalities of the characters play out and imaginative and addictive story line.
I stayed awake until the last word for the novella. I am crazy addicted to the series and when finished with this series, I'm going to read the Golden Key Chronicles.
AJ Nuest is a master of writing! Her words create a stunning picture in your mind of the magical world of the past and the struggle to conquer the darkness overtaking her beautiful land.
Bravo!!!
Fandorn the Wizard offers to take Rhys under his wing to train him to control and hone his powers. Rhys will do anything it takes to be able to be reunited with his muse, Faedrah.
The interaction between the king and queen is hilarious! The princess is cut from the same cloth as her strong willed mother and the combination of all the personalities of the characters play out and imaginative and addictive story line.
I stayed awake until the last word for the novella. I am crazy addicted to the series and when finished with this series, I'm going to read the Golden Key Chronicles.
AJ Nuest is a master of writing! Her words create a stunning picture in your mind of the magical world of the past and the struggle to conquer the darkness overtaking her beautiful land.
Bravo!!!
June 6, 2016
It's Rhys's turn to now travel back in time to Faedrah's homeland. All I can say about this is The title threw me off a bit. Knowing the evil they must face, made me assume it was an evil wizard. I can't say too much without giving hints away. Just know this has every bit of intrigue, wit, and face pace as the ones previous to it. Love!!! 5/5 cross posting to My Reading REality
December 4, 2015
This book so far is my favorite. Rhys has to prove himself not to be like his father and still keeps protecting Faedrah. He learns more about himself and his powers and learns to use them to help her. Amazing story. Again such a fast pace book.
May 22, 2019
Maybe it’s just the series itself, because once again I’m left speechless about just how much I was mesmerized by this book. Faedrah and Rhys have returned to her time in an effort to stop the blight. Being in Austiere unleashes new complications the pair weren’t expecting along with all the ones they thought they were prepared for. This story gets more complex and compelling with every page and I’m desperate to find out how it all comes together.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author.
September 23, 2015
I would like to thank Harper Impulse for approving me to review this on NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
I read all four of these books in the space of four nights and AJ dragged me into the the world of Faedrah and Rhys and I had to keep reading until I finished them all, I was that engrossed in this series. I love them both and really wanted everything to work out for them both. Although through the books I clicked a few things that were cliff hangers I think that comes more from me reading lots of AJ's books rather then the threads being obvious.
In this book things aren't quite working out how Faedrah and Rhys expect and this gripped me and I would cry nnoooo in parts and yeaahhh in others. This series really does show that love literally conquers all.
I read all four of these books in the space of four nights and AJ dragged me into the the world of Faedrah and Rhys and I had to keep reading until I finished them all, I was that engrossed in this series. I love them both and really wanted everything to work out for them both. Although through the books I clicked a few things that were cliff hangers I think that comes more from me reading lots of AJ's books rather then the threads being obvious.
In this book things aren't quite working out how Faedrah and Rhys expect and this gripped me and I would cry nnoooo in parts and yeaahhh in others. This series really does show that love literally conquers all.
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