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Castles of The Eyrie #2
Scarbound
Duty comes before love . . . or does it?
Bryn has been thrust into the center of attention—and danger—as the heir to the Mir throne. She struggles with placing duty above love, as the entire Baer kingdom must reckon with Rangar’s wrath at her decision.
But winter brings a shocking tragedy that forces Bryn and Rangar apart. As he denies vicious accusations, Bryn must disguise herself as a commoner and flee the Baersladen, posing as newlyweds with Valenden for protection.
Bryn and Rangar’s paths return them separately to Castle Mir: one as a prisoner, one as a queen, on a collision course to overthrow the usurper Captain Carr and win back her kingdom.
SCARBOUND is Book Two in the Kindle Vella sensation beginning with SCARLIGHT--now available as an ebook and in paperback!
Bryn has been thrust into the center of attention—and danger—as the heir to the Mir throne. She struggles with placing duty above love, as the entire Baer kingdom must reckon with Rangar’s wrath at her decision.
But winter brings a shocking tragedy that forces Bryn and Rangar apart. As he denies vicious accusations, Bryn must disguise herself as a commoner and flee the Baersladen, posing as newlyweds with Valenden for protection.
Bryn and Rangar’s paths return them separately to Castle Mir: one as a prisoner, one as a queen, on a collision course to overthrow the usurper Captain Carr and win back her kingdom.
SCARBOUND is Book Two in the Kindle Vella sensation beginning with SCARLIGHT--now available as an ebook and in paperback!
428 pages, ebook
Published February 21, 2023
485 people are currently reading
751 people want to read
About the author
Evie Marceau
15 books861 followersIt's possible I was born in the wrong time. I've always been drawn to the past, the future, other worlds—basically anywhere but the here and now. I write fantasy to satisfy my nagging curiosity that there is more out there, just beyond the veil.
Until I find a portal through a magical armoire, I'll continue writing romantic fantasies with a touch of darkness and hint of magic.
I'm the author of fantasy romance sagas include The Godkissed Bride series and The Castles of the Eyrie series.
Until I find a portal through a magical armoire, I'll continue writing romantic fantasies with a touch of darkness and hint of magic.
I'm the author of fantasy romance sagas include The Godkissed Bride series and The Castles of the Eyrie series.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
October 18, 2025
Much of this book dragged because the two LIs spent a lot of time apart and I almost always hate that. It’s a good plot device to build tension and make them pine for each other but I find myself just having to get through it until they’re reunited. Thankfully they were together again fairly quickly and the story moved on to exciting bits. I loved the secret journey with Val when he was pretending to be our husband. And then the devious plot to break Rangar out of prison. That was fun. Fuck that old man in the ass fr, what a scumbag.
Anyway Rangar is a wonderful man and I love him and the ANGST at the start of this book was absolutely delicious, it was so fucking painful. Just imagining Rangar riding at top speed through the woods to get to his love in time to stop the wedding and then not making it in time 😭 it hurt so good. I also enjoyed the plot twists and reveals. I too want to relinquish my throne and return to the wildlands with a sexy barbarian. This is such an excellent trope. I’m just loving these books and the imagination of the author, there’s a few things I would add or change if I could, like sometimes I felt like particularly in the first book that the pacing was a bit off. But the direction we’re heading in is more than solid and I’m excited to see what’s coming next. I do feel like the spice could be better but I also feel like it was an intentional choice to make it the way that it is
Anyway Rangar is a wonderful man and I love him and the ANGST at the start of this book was absolutely delicious, it was so fucking painful. Just imagining Rangar riding at top speed through the woods to get to his love in time to stop the wedding and then not making it in time 😭 it hurt so good. I also enjoyed the plot twists and reveals. I too want to relinquish my throne and return to the wildlands with a sexy barbarian. This is such an excellent trope. I’m just loving these books and the imagination of the author, there’s a few things I would add or change if I could, like sometimes I felt like particularly in the first book that the pacing was a bit off. But the direction we’re heading in is more than solid and I’m excited to see what’s coming next. I do feel like the spice could be better but I also feel like it was an intentional choice to make it the way that it is
July 17, 2023
I did not enjoy this book as much as the first. It felt a bit underdeveloped and typos were very apparent. It dragged in places as well. Especially the forest/bandit plot. Many scenes could have been shortened or removed to make way for more world-building and relationship development.
Speaking of Captain Carr, he was a flat villain. I didn't see any layers to his personality. We at least got to learn about Mars's personality as a brother and a monarch. Every move and decision Carr made was bad just because he's the villain character. There was no middle ground or gray area between good and bad. Nothing made us question his motives or inner thoughts. I believe his character could have benefited from learning more about his role in Bryn's childhood and interactions with her parents.
Bryn and Rangar's intensity broke down for me. Their chemistry in the first book was magnetic; however, their connection fizzled out in this book. There was too much time spent apart and when they did finally reconnect, it was underwhelming and sort of gross. Rangar had been imprisoned without bathing for weeks and almost died on the gallows. He could barely speak yet they were immediately having sex in a dank, dark secret passage. That's not attractive nor is it realistic in a physical sense.
There were a lot of smaller, loose threads left hanging. While these weren't game changers for the overall plot, connecting those small strings would have made the book feel more real, more alive, and the world more substantial. For example, Bryn snuck out to the herb garden after telling the guards she was picking lavender for a bath. This was an important aspect of the scene that allowed Bryn to meet with another character in secret. Yet, she never once went to the lavender or brought any back with her. It was just stated that she "made her way back to her room." That was it. No journey back for us. Not even a mention of purposefully carrying lavender past the guards.
All in all, this book has a good story and plot, but the execution could have improved some. The world-building and putting more thought into details would have helped enrich the story rather than just mentioning places, names, and brief actions.
Speaking of Captain Carr, he was a flat villain. I didn't see any layers to his personality. We at least got to learn about Mars's personality as a brother and a monarch. Every move and decision Carr made was bad just because he's the villain character. There was no middle ground or gray area between good and bad. Nothing made us question his motives or inner thoughts. I believe his character could have benefited from learning more about his role in Bryn's childhood and interactions with her parents.
Bryn and Rangar's intensity broke down for me. Their chemistry in the first book was magnetic; however, their connection fizzled out in this book. There was too much time spent apart and when they did finally reconnect, it was underwhelming and sort of gross. Rangar had been imprisoned without bathing for weeks and almost died on the gallows. He could barely speak yet they were immediately having sex in a dank, dark secret passage. That's not attractive nor is it realistic in a physical sense.
There were a lot of smaller, loose threads left hanging. While these weren't game changers for the overall plot, connecting those small strings would have made the book feel more real, more alive, and the world more substantial. For example, Bryn snuck out to the herb garden after telling the guards she was picking lavender for a bath. This was an important aspect of the scene that allowed Bryn to meet with another character in secret. Yet, she never once went to the lavender or brought any back with her. It was just stated that she "made her way back to her room." That was it. No journey back for us. Not even a mention of purposefully carrying lavender past the guards.
All in all, this book has a good story and plot, but the execution could have improved some. The world-building and putting more thought into details would have helped enrich the story rather than just mentioning places, names, and brief actions.
April 23, 2025
Evie doesn't just write stories, she throws you into them and doesn't let you come up for air. The way she builds tension and slow-burning angst? next level
I was completely captivated from the very first page, and by the end? Utterly consumed. This book had me holding my breath with every chapter. The atmosphere, the stakes, the pacing? flawless + And the plot twists? Absolutely wild. I didn't see a single one coming. Every reveal had me wide-eyed, flipping pages like my life depended on it.
Every move felt calculated, and watching it all unfold was addictive. I loved trying to piece it all together, only to be outplayed every single time.
so excited to see where the last and final book takes me!
I was completely captivated from the very first page, and by the end? Utterly consumed. This book had me holding my breath with every chapter. The atmosphere, the stakes, the pacing? flawless + And the plot twists? Absolutely wild. I didn't see a single one coming. Every reveal had me wide-eyed, flipping pages like my life depended on it.
Every move felt calculated, and watching it all unfold was addictive. I loved trying to piece it all together, only to be outplayed every single time.
so excited to see where the last and final book takes me!
April 13, 2025
Literally read this book in a day. I love their story and I love their love. All they did to get back to eachother. The scheming and plotting was phenomenal and gosh Carr was so disgusting. I love Evie’s writing and story telling. I’m so happy I found her and I will be reading her books forever!!
April 21, 2025
I'm really enjoying this series on audiobook. I liked Valendan a lot in this book. Immediately starting the third book.
January 5, 2026
⭐⭐⭐.5
I fully expect the next book to be so SO much of a tumultuous ride to an amazing finale – and if happens to be on the back of a stallion, racing across the countryside being held by a so-called “barbarian” who will go scorched earth for me… then so be it!
The duplicitous lifestyle Bryn had to maintain to see the plans come to fruition was other-worldly and an exercise in patience and trust I’m not sure I’d possess. The way the two MC’s had to spend time apart was agonizing with not one, but TWO dungeons – I did roll my eyes with a “are you f’n kidding me” kinda way with the second… but when they finally reunited –I about DIED! Talk about Tension! Ungh!
And I don’t care how much I love you – weeks in a dungeon, I'm on a quest for a bath, and a toothbrush – I am talking all things hygienic here. Sorrynotsorry.
This led to some unlikely allies – who doesn’t want to befriend a bandit?
And don’t get me started on the smarmy Carr. Complete and utter ilk. I wanted to roundhouse kick his nasty, disgusting, filthy face myself!
I’m still super curious as to the intentions of the king and his betrothed as well as if the last message received was authentic or if this is yet another twist. Because this kingdom is in a constant state of flux.
But, again, give me the savage barbarian who will go scorched earth, ride across the countryside at breakneck pace, only to have his heart ripped out before his entire kingdom, and still be capable of love. What a man!
I’d anticipated at least of the plot twists – I just didn’t know how they would be revealed. Delivery was chef’s kiss. Will absolutely be looking forward to the next one.
Memorable quotes:
“You feel it too, don’t you?” he whispered, opening his eyes to study hers. Her lips were shaking as she said, “The bond?” “I don’t care what you call it. Just that you feel it. For me, not for anyone else.”
“Isn’t she?” (if you know the scene…. You just KNOW!!! HAHAHAHHA)
“Don’t let anyone tell you that a princess cannot also be a savage.”
I fully expect the next book to be so SO much of a tumultuous ride to an amazing finale – and if happens to be on the back of a stallion, racing across the countryside being held by a so-called “barbarian” who will go scorched earth for me… then so be it!
The duplicitous lifestyle Bryn had to maintain to see the plans come to fruition was other-worldly and an exercise in patience and trust I’m not sure I’d possess. The way the two MC’s had to spend time apart was agonizing with not one, but TWO dungeons – I did roll my eyes with a “are you f’n kidding me” kinda way with the second… but when they finally reunited –I about DIED! Talk about Tension! Ungh!
And I don’t care how much I love you – weeks in a dungeon, I'm on a quest for a bath, and a toothbrush – I am talking all things hygienic here. Sorrynotsorry.
This led to some unlikely allies – who doesn’t want to befriend a bandit?
And don’t get me started on the smarmy Carr. Complete and utter ilk. I wanted to roundhouse kick his nasty, disgusting, filthy face myself!
I’m still super curious as to the intentions of the king and his betrothed as well as if the last message received was authentic or if this is yet another twist. Because this kingdom is in a constant state of flux.
But, again, give me the savage barbarian who will go scorched earth, ride across the countryside at breakneck pace, only to have his heart ripped out before his entire kingdom, and still be capable of love. What a man!
I’d anticipated at least of the plot twists – I just didn’t know how they would be revealed. Delivery was chef’s kiss. Will absolutely be looking forward to the next one.
Memorable quotes:
“You feel it too, don’t you?” he whispered, opening his eyes to study hers. Her lips were shaking as she said, “The bond?” “I don’t care what you call it. Just that you feel it. For me, not for anyone else.”
“Isn’t she?” (if you know the scene…. You just KNOW!!! HAHAHAHHA)
“Don’t let anyone tell you that a princess cannot also be a savage.”
October 25, 2023
✨️Political Intrigue
✨️Rearranged Marriages
✨️Bonded Mate
✨️Duty over Love
✨️Plot Twists
✨️3rd POV
✨️To be continued cliffhanger
Not as good as the first book, but a solid 2nd book. There were a few moments where it dragged, and a few characters I would have loved to be developed more.
I still look forward to reading the next book in the series to see if the main characters finally get married!
✨️Rearranged Marriages
✨️Bonded Mate
✨️Duty over Love
✨️Plot Twists
✨️3rd POV
✨️To be continued cliffhanger
Not as good as the first book, but a solid 2nd book. There were a few moments where it dragged, and a few characters I would have loved to be developed more.
I still look forward to reading the next book in the series to see if the main characters finally get married!
May 5, 2023
I read the first book/story through Kindle Vella and loved it. So, I was excited for the continuation and Scarbound does not disappoint. It has action, adventure, intrigue, and love. I thought it was a bonus that the love wasn't just about the hero and heroine. There are many players on the map, and it's a tale about family too.
There is another book and I'm looking forward to it. Oh, and another bonus is the great world building.
There is another book and I'm looking forward to it. Oh, and another bonus is the great world building.
February 24, 2025
reading this was like my experience watching pretty little liars with all the back and forth and plot twists and seeing them coming but also being shocked and satisfied but also not at the same time.
February 4, 2024
Could not put this book down! Great second installment to this series 👏. Ranger is morally grey to the "T"!
April 28, 2025
There were SO many surprises I didn't see coming! Parts of this one ripped my heart out and absolutely stomped on it. I am DYING to dive into book 3!
September 16, 2024
Enjoyable, it reminded me of something I couldn’t quite put my finger on. But brutish princes and I’m in.
May 31, 2023
I enjoyed the first book but struggled to stay interested throughout the second book. I was happy about most of how book 2 ended but don't foresee myself reading book 3. There are a lot of things that are repeated throughout the book. I honestly feel like book 2 would have been way shorter if certain character backgrounds were not repeated 2-3+ times. Unfortunately it just got repetitive for me.
February 22, 2023
Better than the first!
I really enjoyed the first story and was excited to read this one. There were lots of twists that I didn’t see coming and ended up reading it in two days!
I really enjoyed the first story and was excited to read this one. There were lots of twists that I didn’t see coming and ended up reading it in two days!
January 21, 2024
It was a mess, proverbially!
and a lot of what happend didn't at up, for me the story really didn't work…
and a lot of what happend didn't at up, for me the story really didn't work…
April 15, 2025
I read Scarbound and I absolutely loved it! It was so much fun and I could not put it dow. It was so much fun to read. And I cannot wait to read the third and final installment in this series.
⠀
In this installment we follow Bryn as she is faced with the difficult question of whether duty comes before love? There is a decision she made on book one that could impact the fate of all the kingdom and more so when winter brings a shocking tragedy and she and Rangar are force apart. Will they be able to save the Mir and the Baersladen?
⠀
As I mentioned back when I was reading the book. I was pretty confident I would love this book, as Evie Marceau tends to write awesome second parts. And she did not disappointed. This book was everything I was hopping for and then some.
⠀
One of the best part was the expansion that there is of this universe and its rules. I loved to see the fantasy elements incorporated in such an organic way and it was really interesting to read. As I mentioned, the fact that Bryn has been so sheltered though out all of her life, makes her ideal to learn the world from. She is discovering many of the things as we do as readers. And this creates an environment of trust with the narrator that makes you empathize with Bryn so much more and makes her such an interesting character.
⠀
Other thing that I really enjoyed was the character development that we have seen from book one onto this one. Bryn starts being extremely naive and as the story progresses we are seeing her growing. of course she makes some mistakes. But it only makes her an even more character to read from.
⠀
And regarding the character development of the rest of the cast I think it was really cool to see Valendan so much more on this book. He is the perfect secondary character that we all love. He is flawed but at the same time he is lovable and I really enjoy him being such an important part of this book. Cannot wait to se more of him on book 3.
⠀
As for the romance I adore the romane in this is story. It is so well done. Best part is that even when this is a romantasy book, there is so much focus on the yearning and the characters having to go through so many things that made it all the better. And I did enjoy this one so much more, specially after reading a couple of books with romances that were not as organically done as this one.
⠀
However, and even when I loved all the elements that I have just mentioned, I think the best part of this book was however, the plot. The political tension was so tastefully done that even when you are rooting for things to happen you are so invested in knowing what is going to happen. I love how the stakes are getting higher and higher. And you are always left wanting more.
⠀
Overall it is an awesome read and I don’t know what are you doing if you have not yet picked it up.
⠀
In this installment we follow Bryn as she is faced with the difficult question of whether duty comes before love? There is a decision she made on book one that could impact the fate of all the kingdom and more so when winter brings a shocking tragedy and she and Rangar are force apart. Will they be able to save the Mir and the Baersladen?
⠀
As I mentioned back when I was reading the book. I was pretty confident I would love this book, as Evie Marceau tends to write awesome second parts. And she did not disappointed. This book was everything I was hopping for and then some.
⠀
One of the best part was the expansion that there is of this universe and its rules. I loved to see the fantasy elements incorporated in such an organic way and it was really interesting to read. As I mentioned, the fact that Bryn has been so sheltered though out all of her life, makes her ideal to learn the world from. She is discovering many of the things as we do as readers. And this creates an environment of trust with the narrator that makes you empathize with Bryn so much more and makes her such an interesting character.
⠀
Other thing that I really enjoyed was the character development that we have seen from book one onto this one. Bryn starts being extremely naive and as the story progresses we are seeing her growing. of course she makes some mistakes. But it only makes her an even more character to read from.
⠀
And regarding the character development of the rest of the cast I think it was really cool to see Valendan so much more on this book. He is the perfect secondary character that we all love. He is flawed but at the same time he is lovable and I really enjoy him being such an important part of this book. Cannot wait to se more of him on book 3.
⠀
As for the romance I adore the romane in this is story. It is so well done. Best part is that even when this is a romantasy book, there is so much focus on the yearning and the characters having to go through so many things that made it all the better. And I did enjoy this one so much more, specially after reading a couple of books with romances that were not as organically done as this one.
⠀
However, and even when I loved all the elements that I have just mentioned, I think the best part of this book was however, the plot. The political tension was so tastefully done that even when you are rooting for things to happen you are so invested in knowing what is going to happen. I love how the stakes are getting higher and higher. And you are always left wanting more.
⠀
Overall it is an awesome read and I don’t know what are you doing if you have not yet picked it up.
February 1, 2025
Between 3.5 and 4 ⭐️ I can’t decide 😅
This was good and enjoyable but a little less than the first one 📖. and these are my reasons why : ( obviously this is just my opinion)
- 💭 I found the FMC overthinking the same thoughts often. I had to skip some parts.., I got tired of reading over and over again the same explanation just written slightly differently. 😅
—I didn’t find the plot twist about the FMC’s brother and sister being "good people" and being actually on her side believable.. It just didn’t feel right ..
- 👸for the sister: If think, I would have found it more interesting that the FMC goes and meets her sister at the duke’s estate and see the luxurious life she was leading instead. ( with the same traits as what she was portrayed in the first book ). I think It would have been more interesting to have the sister not particularly on her side, but just caring for her own interest.
Why make every one "good" ?
- 🤴For the brother: the plot was good but again I wouldn’t have bothered was the scenario that he was actually "good" since the beginning, i think it would have been more interesting to have him become nice from his experience of being stuck in the tunnels, with the commoner girl that saved him . ( basically like how it was already portrayed in the book but without the "good from the beginning part")
- 🌶️( this one is more about my likes and dislikes than anything) The spice scene between the FMC and MMC in the tunnels ( their real first time ) kind of grossed me out.. it wasn’t how it was written! It was more of the fact that Rangar was filthy from being captured and stuck in the dungeon for several weeks .. he didn’t have a bath beforehand.. 🫣🤢 I mean I get the point that they hadn’t seen each other in awhile and it’s passionate and all that BUT it’s gross when you think about it.
Isn’t it ?!! 🫠🫣😱
The only "cleaning" that Rangar got before the spice scene was a gentle wiping with a cloth and clean water from a bucket 🪣 ( which was quickly described as murky water after a few wipes and yes she didn’t get around to clean the whole body ! 🍆) 😱😶 I couldn’t help myself but wonder how they didn’t get any illnesses/ virus 🦠 after that scene. 🫥🤔 .
And so basically, I didn’t get the pleasure of enjoying reading this scene because of all that.. 😓🥲
I know this is not really a valid point but it did influence my overall experience..
📕 Apart from the point above this second book was enjoyable, the plot , the slow burn romance, the characters, the writing style. I would recommend this book 👏🏻
This was good and enjoyable but a little less than the first one 📖. and these are my reasons why : ( obviously this is just my opinion)
- 💭 I found the FMC overthinking the same thoughts often. I had to skip some parts.., I got tired of reading over and over again the same explanation just written slightly differently. 😅
—I didn’t find the plot twist about the FMC’s brother and sister being "good people" and being actually on her side believable.. It just didn’t feel right ..
- 👸for the sister: If think, I would have found it more interesting that the FMC goes and meets her sister at the duke’s estate and see the luxurious life she was leading instead. ( with the same traits as what she was portrayed in the first book ). I think It would have been more interesting to have the sister not particularly on her side, but just caring for her own interest.
Why make every one "good" ?
- 🤴For the brother: the plot was good but again I wouldn’t have bothered was the scenario that he was actually "good" since the beginning, i think it would have been more interesting to have him become nice from his experience of being stuck in the tunnels, with the commoner girl that saved him . ( basically like how it was already portrayed in the book but without the "good from the beginning part")
- 🌶️( this one is more about my likes and dislikes than anything) The spice scene between the FMC and MMC in the tunnels ( their real first time ) kind of grossed me out.. it wasn’t how it was written! It was more of the fact that Rangar was filthy from being captured and stuck in the dungeon for several weeks .. he didn’t have a bath beforehand.. 🫣🤢 I mean I get the point that they hadn’t seen each other in awhile and it’s passionate and all that BUT it’s gross when you think about it.
Isn’t it ?!! 🫠🫣😱
The only "cleaning" that Rangar got before the spice scene was a gentle wiping with a cloth and clean water from a bucket 🪣 ( which was quickly described as murky water after a few wipes and yes she didn’t get around to clean the whole body ! 🍆) 😱😶 I couldn’t help myself but wonder how they didn’t get any illnesses/ virus 🦠 after that scene. 🫥🤔 .
And so basically, I didn’t get the pleasure of enjoying reading this scene because of all that.. 😓🥲
I know this is not really a valid point but it did influence my overall experience..
📕 Apart from the point above this second book was enjoyable, the plot , the slow burn romance, the characters, the writing style. I would recommend this book 👏🏻
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 10, 2025
2.5 stars
This books starts off where book one ended so if you haven’t read book 1 don’t read this review because there will be spoilers for book 1.
This book should’ve been titled, ‘how many times can Ranger be thrown in the dungeon’, because literally that’s all that kept happening. Once after he attacked Trei, once after that unaliving (not saying who because I don’t want to spoil it) and another time after the bandits literally JUST freed him 🤦🏻♀️
I cannot believe Bryn went through with the wedding. Yeah I get it duty over love, blah blah blah. Fuck that, run away with that man. Damn. He doesn’t get her first kiss because she lets Val take that. Then she marries his other brother WHILE HES AWAY AT WAR. EXCUSE ME. I’m like shit at least let him have the vcard girl. Then mage Marna just had to interrupt them. Be so for real. The amount of times these two have been interrupted in this series is crazy.
How was Val speaking to the bandit king (iykyk) when in book one he only understood a little Mir but now hes suddenly fluent?
Everyone kept coming back from the dead 🤦🏻♀️ then the king is randomly sick although he had been in perfect health when they left 😒 the plot felt so back and forth it gave me whiplash.
This book wasn’t as good as book one. I rage read the first 30% because I was so mad at Bryn and then I just needed to see how this ended. I’m so confused why this series goes further than this? I read the blurb for the next book and laughed at the line that said ‘cursed wolf pack terrorizes villages’ 🙄. I will not be reading that and I’m going to pretend they lived happily ever after.
This books starts off where book one ended so if you haven’t read book 1 don’t read this review because there will be spoilers for book 1.
This book should’ve been titled, ‘how many times can Ranger be thrown in the dungeon’, because literally that’s all that kept happening. Once after he attacked Trei, once after that unaliving (not saying who because I don’t want to spoil it) and another time after the bandits literally JUST freed him 🤦🏻♀️
I cannot believe Bryn went through with the wedding. Yeah I get it duty over love, blah blah blah. Fuck that, run away with that man. Damn. He doesn’t get her first kiss because she lets Val take that. Then she marries his other brother WHILE HES AWAY AT WAR. EXCUSE ME. I’m like shit at least let him have the vcard girl. Then mage Marna just had to interrupt them. Be so for real. The amount of times these two have been interrupted in this series is crazy.
How was Val speaking to the bandit king (iykyk) when in book one he only understood a little Mir but now hes suddenly fluent?
Everyone kept coming back from the dead 🤦🏻♀️ then the king is randomly sick although he had been in perfect health when they left 😒 the plot felt so back and forth it gave me whiplash.
This book wasn’t as good as book one. I rage read the first 30% because I was so mad at Bryn and then I just needed to see how this ended. I’m so confused why this series goes further than this? I read the blurb for the next book and laughed at the line that said ‘cursed wolf pack terrorizes villages’ 🙄. I will not be reading that and I’m going to pretend they lived happily ever after.
April 29, 2025
Book two doesn't waste time—it dives straight back into the chaos where the first left off. Bryn is now engaged to Trei, not Ragnar—the prince who literally saved her life. The problem? She doesn’t love Trei, and he’s in love with someone else. But duty trumps desire in this world, and both are forced to play their parts in a political game neither of them truly wants.
Ragnar’s fury is palpable when he discovers Bryn is marrying his brother. He’s hurt, betrayed, and angry at everyone. The emotional stakes skyrocket, and conflict simmers on every page. But while the politics rage around them, Bryn is quietly growing stronger—more confident in herself, her magic, and her worth.
Bryn and Ragnar are torn apart for most of the book, but their connection never wavers. No matter what they go through—or who tries to keep them apart—the bond between them is unbreakable. It’s the kind of love that simmers beneath the surface, fierce and undeniable.
The tension? Off the charts. The slow-burn between Bryn and Ragnar is frustrating in all the best ways. Every glance, every moment apart is loaded with emotion. And yet, the romance doesn’t overshadow the story—it deepens it. Bryn’s transformation from a sheltered princess to a woman who refuses to be controlled is one of the best parts of this book.
Bottom line: this sequel hits harder, digs deeper, and leaves you desperate for the final chapter. I devoured it—and now I need more.
Ragnar’s fury is palpable when he discovers Bryn is marrying his brother. He’s hurt, betrayed, and angry at everyone. The emotional stakes skyrocket, and conflict simmers on every page. But while the politics rage around them, Bryn is quietly growing stronger—more confident in herself, her magic, and her worth.
Bryn and Ragnar are torn apart for most of the book, but their connection never wavers. No matter what they go through—or who tries to keep them apart—the bond between them is unbreakable. It’s the kind of love that simmers beneath the surface, fierce and undeniable.
The tension? Off the charts. The slow-burn between Bryn and Ragnar is frustrating in all the best ways. Every glance, every moment apart is loaded with emotion. And yet, the romance doesn’t overshadow the story—it deepens it. Bryn’s transformation from a sheltered princess to a woman who refuses to be controlled is one of the best parts of this book.
Bottom line: this sequel hits harder, digs deeper, and leaves you desperate for the final chapter. I devoured it—and now I need more.
June 7, 2023
This book was everything I was hoping for after finishing the first book in the series. The book was well written, and I only noticed a few typos, though none of those were jarring enough to take me out of the narrative. The story flowed well, and the characters were likable.
It was interesting to see how the main character, Bryn, evolved throughout the story. I had to keep reminding myself that she was only 16. She was smart, kind-hearted, and had a strong sense of duty and love for her kingdom, despite the horrors that had been perpetrated against her. It was nice to see her finally come into her own as a young woman with a sense of strength of mind after suffering so badly from her naivete in the first book. I've grown to love Bryn as a character, and never found myself cringing at her decisions or questioning her intelligence as often happens in Young Adult books.
There was a lot of tragedy in this book - betrayals, lies, deaths, battle, and loss, and it was sometimes hard to read. I do want to warn future readers that there are moments of sexual violence in this story, and while not graphic, it may be triggering to some readers. Don't let it scare you off. It's a very small part of the book.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I'm looking forward to the final book in the series.
It was interesting to see how the main character, Bryn, evolved throughout the story. I had to keep reminding myself that she was only 16. She was smart, kind-hearted, and had a strong sense of duty and love for her kingdom, despite the horrors that had been perpetrated against her. It was nice to see her finally come into her own as a young woman with a sense of strength of mind after suffering so badly from her naivete in the first book. I've grown to love Bryn as a character, and never found myself cringing at her decisions or questioning her intelligence as often happens in Young Adult books.
There was a lot of tragedy in this book - betrayals, lies, deaths, battle, and loss, and it was sometimes hard to read. I do want to warn future readers that there are moments of sexual violence in this story, and while not graphic, it may be triggering to some readers. Don't let it scare you off. It's a very small part of the book.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I'm looking forward to the final book in the series.
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January 2, 2024Somehow everything and nothing was happening at the same time. I liked how the first book ended -it added a great twist to the story but that twist was untwisted very sloppily; almost to get it out of the way or to further the new plot which is why I didn't feel like finishing or continuing after THE Tragedy hit the castle. I understand that it had a function for the story but I believe that it could've been solved differently and effectively better.
Ragnar *sigh* was so difficult to like in these 100 pages and I did not feel like reading his appeal and defences. Don't even get me started about him liking Bryn as a soft being, while she liked being challenged and grew as a young woman, very much adored her. In a perfect world, they would understand that they do not belong together. Ragnar fell in love with an idealised idea about Bryn and Bryn I don't know if she was and still is in a vulnerable situation I don't think she is that much in love with him.
also
Valenden and Trei are my sweethearts. Honestly, I might come back to finish this series just for
It is a very interesting story and like I said I will come back to it but for now, I need a break.
It's a DNF for now.
Ragnar *sigh* was so difficult to like in these 100 pages and I did not feel like reading his appeal and defences. Don't even get me started about him liking Bryn as a soft being, while she liked being challenged and grew as a young woman, very much adored her. In a perfect world, they would understand that they do not belong together. Ragnar fell in love with an idealised idea about Bryn and Bryn I don't know if she was and still is in a vulnerable situation I don't think she is that much in love with him.
also
Valenden and Trei are my sweethearts. Honestly, I might come back to finish this series just for
It is a very interesting story and like I said I will come back to it but for now, I need a break.
It's a DNF for now.
August 15, 2025
Great series! Loved the MMC!!
Castles of the Eyrie Series (Evie Marceau): "Viking" like, FMC saved as a young girl from wolves by a "wild" prince from another kingdom, MMCs family claims she belongs to him by the fralen bond ("A soul saved is a soul owned") after but then they're sent away and not seen for years - however, both MCs think about each other and wish to see each other constantly all those years, 10 years later there's an event/10 day feast and during one night an attack happens at the FMCs palace, betr@yals, longing/pining/tension/stolen moments, really passionate kisses along with a "stolen" first kiss for the FMC, jealousy between brothers, a funny flirt (and cad and "drunk") of a prince (MMC2), magic/mages, broody/pøssessive MMC who is also head over heels in love with the FMC and makes it so secret how he feels towards her and is so sweet to her (MMC1), w@r, FMC learns how naive/sheltered she's been, a marriage leading to extreme tension and consequences, broken hearts, secret meetings, mûrdêr(s), attempted hanging, hiding/running, capture, bandits, a rebellion, a lying/slimy captain hoping to become king, attempted SA, loss of loved ones, found family, cursed wolves, HEA.
Castles of the Eyrie Series (Evie Marceau): "Viking" like, FMC saved as a young girl from wolves by a "wild" prince from another kingdom, MMCs family claims she belongs to him by the fralen bond ("A soul saved is a soul owned") after but then they're sent away and not seen for years - however, both MCs think about each other and wish to see each other constantly all those years, 10 years later there's an event/10 day feast and during one night an attack happens at the FMCs palace, betr@yals, longing/pining/tension/stolen moments, really passionate kisses along with a "stolen" first kiss for the FMC, jealousy between brothers, a funny flirt (and cad and "drunk") of a prince (MMC2), magic/mages, broody/pøssessive MMC who is also head over heels in love with the FMC and makes it so secret how he feels towards her and is so sweet to her (MMC1), w@r, FMC learns how naive/sheltered she's been, a marriage leading to extreme tension and consequences, broken hearts, secret meetings, mûrdêr(s), attempted hanging, hiding/running, capture, bandits, a rebellion, a lying/slimy captain hoping to become king, attempted SA, loss of loved ones, found family, cursed wolves, HEA.
March 24, 2025
I devoured this book in a single afternoon—I just couldn’t wait for the next ARC! (I’ll be posting about the whole series on my bookstagram soon.) Evie has a way of pulling you so deep into her stories that putting the book down feels impossible. Every book in this series has been a ride, but this one? It consumed me. I’m still not over what happened in the first act—WHY, EVIE, WHY?! The twists, the tension, the absolute heartbreak—I felt everything.
But what I love most is how much Bryn has grown since book one. Her journey has been so satisfying to witness, and it’s no surprise—Evie writes FMC character development so well. She doesn’t just create strong heroines; she crafts layered, complex, and deeply human ones. Pair that with the masterful political intrigue woven throughout the book, and you get a story that’s equal parts thrilling and emotional.
Evie is truly one of the reasons I adore romantasy. She never fails to deliver, and I already know I’ll be thinking about this book for a long time.
But what I love most is how much Bryn has grown since book one. Her journey has been so satisfying to witness, and it’s no surprise—Evie writes FMC character development so well. She doesn’t just create strong heroines; she crafts layered, complex, and deeply human ones. Pair that with the masterful political intrigue woven throughout the book, and you get a story that’s equal parts thrilling and emotional.
Evie is truly one of the reasons I adore romantasy. She never fails to deliver, and I already know I’ll be thinking about this book for a long time.
April 8, 2025
What a journey!
I decided to read this series because the wait for the last two in the Godkissed Bride series has been brutal. I decided a completed series from the author was in order.
The publisher sent me this ARC to review while waiting to release the brand new covers, and my review is voluntary.
Whew. This was an emotional roller coaster that I couldn’t put down. Bryn is forced into a complicated lesson of duty over love as she vows to rescue her people.
The whole “Goldilocks and the three bears; who does she end up with” deal, yeah. Girl is forced into experiences with all three brothers that wouldn’t have been her first choice. Her magical abilities grow, friendships grow and are tested.
Trei was raised to put duty over love and discovers he has no actual choice in the matter.
Rangar finds himself in not one, but TWO kingdoms dungeons.
Val is stuck pretending to be married instead of finding the prettiest maidens in the town.
Unexpected encounters.
Exciting reunifications.
Loves lost and found.
I decided to read this series because the wait for the last two in the Godkissed Bride series has been brutal. I decided a completed series from the author was in order.
The publisher sent me this ARC to review while waiting to release the brand new covers, and my review is voluntary.
Whew. This was an emotional roller coaster that I couldn’t put down. Bryn is forced into a complicated lesson of duty over love as she vows to rescue her people.
The whole “Goldilocks and the three bears; who does she end up with” deal, yeah. Girl is forced into experiences with all three brothers that wouldn’t have been her first choice. Her magical abilities grow, friendships grow and are tested.
Trei was raised to put duty over love and discovers he has no actual choice in the matter.
Rangar finds himself in not one, but TWO kingdoms dungeons.
Val is stuck pretending to be married instead of finding the prettiest maidens in the town.
Unexpected encounters.
Exciting reunifications.
Loves lost and found.
April 21, 2024
>Book Review – Scarbound
>I am an independent reviewer. This book is the 2nd in the Castles of the Eyrie series and ends in a cliffhanger. This book will tear at your heartstrings. I don’t want to ruin anything, so I will be vague. Bryn is forced to do something that will hurt Rangar. Once the news gets out that Bryn lives, assassins still upset over her royal family, target Bryn.
>The three brothers play such a large part in this book. Their surname is like Bear, so the 3 brothers feel like the 3 bears! The second brother, Val, takes Bryn to hide. They have a far-fetched plan to return to her home country and try to retake it.
>This book is appropriate for an adult audience. I am giving this book 5 stars. This book has a ton of shocks, surprises and true love. Magic really takes center stage.
>I am an independent reviewer. This book is the 2nd in the Castles of the Eyrie series and ends in a cliffhanger. This book will tear at your heartstrings. I don’t want to ruin anything, so I will be vague. Bryn is forced to do something that will hurt Rangar. Once the news gets out that Bryn lives, assassins still upset over her royal family, target Bryn.
>The three brothers play such a large part in this book. Their surname is like Bear, so the 3 brothers feel like the 3 bears! The second brother, Val, takes Bryn to hide. They have a far-fetched plan to return to her home country and try to retake it.
>This book is appropriate for an adult audience. I am giving this book 5 stars. This book has a ton of shocks, surprises and true love. Magic really takes center stage.
April 11, 2025
As a writer myself, I'm always impressed at how Evie Marceau is able to weave all of the different parts of her stories together while world-building in a way that seamlessly weaves into the story without pausing the plot. She's also fantastic at writing surprising plot twists that you won't see coming! I always feel all of the emotions when reading an Evie Marceau book and Scarbound is no exception to that.
Scarbound picks up where Scarlight left off. If you haven't read Book 1 you will definitely want to start there or you will be lost - there's a LOT that happens in the first book! Scarbound is also packed with action, but some of it won't make sense if you haven't started at the beginning of the series. I don't want to give away spoilers, so I'll just leave it at Bryn continues to develop as a strong female character. Her story with Rangar will make you cry in all the ways. At the end of the book, you find yourself just waiting for that other shoe to drop. I can't wait to see what Book 3 has in store for us!
Also, these new covers are gorgeous!!
Scarbound picks up where Scarlight left off. If you haven't read Book 1 you will definitely want to start there or you will be lost - there's a LOT that happens in the first book! Scarbound is also packed with action, but some of it won't make sense if you haven't started at the beginning of the series. I don't want to give away spoilers, so I'll just leave it at Bryn continues to develop as a strong female character. Her story with Rangar will make you cry in all the ways. At the end of the book, you find yourself just waiting for that other shoe to drop. I can't wait to see what Book 3 has in store for us!
Also, these new covers are gorgeous!!
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April 15, 2025I need to learn to never let my guard down while reading one of Evie’s books. I should know better by now. My heart has broken so many times in this book for Bryn and the Baersladen people. I just want everyone to live a happily ever after. Is that too much to ask?!
I was very scared for Bryn returning back to castle Mir. And good god I just want to beat the sh*t out of Captain Carr. He is disgusting.
Mars showing back up had me a bit skeptical but of course having a strong woman like Illiana guiding him helped me see him as a changed man.
I’m hoping all the loose ends start coming to a close in the next installment. I need to know EVERYTHING.
I felt like the ending of this book was a bit softer than the first and I really appreciate that. It was a nice transition into the final book.
I was very scared for Bryn returning back to castle Mir. And good god I just want to beat the sh*t out of Captain Carr. He is disgusting.
Mars showing back up had me a bit skeptical but of course having a strong woman like Illiana guiding him helped me see him as a changed man.
I’m hoping all the loose ends start coming to a close in the next installment. I need to know EVERYTHING.
I felt like the ending of this book was a bit softer than the first and I really appreciate that. It was a nice transition into the final book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 20, 2025
This was a fabulous second instalment to the series and I had a great, fun time with Scarbound. Here, we don’t get many interactions between Bryn and Rangar due to Reasons but that didn’t take away my liking to the story as a whole. Bryn is forced into situations that are both questionable and tragic yet she handles them all with such determination and loyalty that felt inspiring, somehow.
Without spoiling too much, the found family here was so unexpected and a very nice touch to Bryn’s growth. Some scenes felt rushed and underfleshed and BOY were there shock values here and there and forced me to keep going very deep into the nights. I also uncovered a new microtrope that I, uh, haha… really enjoyed. (Evie, you’re evil for leaving a girl gasping for a between prison bars scene!)
Can’t wait to dig into the third book!
Without spoiling too much, the found family here was so unexpected and a very nice touch to Bryn’s growth. Some scenes felt rushed and underfleshed and BOY were there shock values here and there and forced me to keep going very deep into the nights. I also uncovered a new microtrope that I, uh, haha… really enjoyed. (Evie, you’re evil for leaving a girl gasping for a between prison bars scene!)
Can’t wait to dig into the third book!
January 19, 2024
This book wasn't as enjoyable as the first one for me. I found myself skimming quite a bit. The beginning broke my heart!, but I did enjoy the ending. This was a good second installment to the series, and I will continue with it.
Marceau has a beautiful way of writing character driven stories, and she did not disappoint here. Rangar and Bryn 💓
It's another easy to follow, light read, with swoon worthy love interests. I hope to see more of Rangar and Bryn actually together in the next book.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ - well written, with nice pacing. As with the first, it's a low commitment, easy read.
🌶.5- It's giving black peppercorns
Infinite 🔥 - not just for the MCs but *surprise* characters, too! 🥰 EM knows what she is doing when it comes to writing swoon worthy all-your-fav-trope moments
Marceau has a beautiful way of writing character driven stories, and she did not disappoint here. Rangar and Bryn 💓
It's another easy to follow, light read, with swoon worthy love interests. I hope to see more of Rangar and Bryn actually together in the next book.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ - well written, with nice pacing. As with the first, it's a low commitment, easy read.
🌶.5- It's giving black peppercorns
Infinite 🔥 - not just for the MCs but *surprise* characters, too! 🥰 EM knows what she is doing when it comes to writing swoon worthy all-your-fav-trope moments
April 18, 2025
This series gets more interesting as it goes on. Scarbound had a lot more action and WTF moments than Scarlight. I would have rated it higher but I feel like some of the situations were resolved too quickly and easily.
That's not to say I didn't enjoy this book because I did. I love The Baer brothers and the friendship between Bryn and Saraj even through the circumstances that should have shaved a wedge between them.
Mars...I'm on the fence here...time will tell
val is a massive flirt and womanizer, but his heart is in the right place and he does the right thing when it counts!
Overall I recommend this series and am excited to see what the outcome will be in the next book, Scarcrossed.
That's not to say I didn't enjoy this book because I did. I love The Baer brothers and the friendship between Bryn and Saraj even through the circumstances that should have shaved a wedge between them.
Mars...I'm on the fence here...time will tell
val is a massive flirt and womanizer, but his heart is in the right place and he does the right thing when it counts!
Overall I recommend this series and am excited to see what the outcome will be in the next book, Scarcrossed.
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