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Cyclones and Daggers: Powerful Pawns: Book Two

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I have been captured, separated from my men, but not defeated.

A voice inside of me grows hungry for revenge as the days pass in this gilded prison, but whether I shall give in to its haunting voice or not is yet to be known.

As these trials get more and more intense I cannot help but wonder two

How far will these kings go to keep me in check?
How far will I go to escape?


May the winds of Ptheryeth forever guide me...

Cyclones and Daggers is book two in the powerful pawns series (a reverse harem romantasy) and the sequel to Vines and Daggers.

366 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 15, 2025

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14 people want to read

About the author

Rauri Rose

2 books9 followers
I love all things romance. I have been writing ever since I was a teen, and have always found beauty in the way throwing oneself into a book lets them experience the world around them and worlds unknown in the safety of their reading nook. At home I spend my time writing and keeping up with my four cats Atticus, Shadow, Midnight and Belle. I have a ton of ideas to share and hope that you enjoy this wild ride with me. Thank you for visiting my page.

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5 stars
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8 (34%)
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
Profile Image for Rachel.
50 reviews9 followers
November 12, 2025
This was the perfect sequel! I loved diving back into this world; Cyclones and Daggers is book 2 in the Powerful Pawns series and I loved every second of it. We start off right where Vines and Daggers ended with that dreadful cliffhanger, I was going insane waiting to know what happened!

I experienced so many emotions while reading this, I definitely laughed alot at the banter, I swooned SO many times, I was on the verge of tears a few times (my heart ached for Lace a couple times there), but I was also at the edge of my seat pretty much the whole book, it was intense but so fun!

The world building is incredible, the descriptions are super vivid. And the magic system is unique but easy to understand. All of the characters are so well written.
I loved watching Alaceandra grow in this one, she really came to understand her powers more. I also adored getting to know the mysterious prince better, he has grown on me.

And let's not forget the spice, it was definitely spicing and it was hottt. And I still say that the why-choose in this series is super well done, I love all of the mmc's so much! But I will always have a soft spot for Sorin.

I just can't wait for book 3 now, that ending was definitely shocking but left me excited too! I need answers!
Profile Image for Fantasy Fables.
111 reviews3 followers
November 16, 2025
4.5⭐️ - What a solid sequel! We picked up right where we left off at the end of Book 1, and poor Lace has been through it. She’s been captured and separated from her men, and she’s not happy about it.

The kings have plans for her, and until she can escape, Lace decides to play nice in order to grow stronger since they want her to train. I was really impressed with her growth in this book, especially in her willingness to play the game on her own terms.

You would think being separated from her men would mean we’d get less spice in this book. Luckily for us, ‘twas not the case. 🌶️

We also got to meet some new people in this book that I’m really excited to see more of. We also got more Baldar in this one, and I LOVED every scene that little guy was in. He was a hoot in this book!

Be prepared for an action packed ending with another cliffhanger! This one is thankfully less gut wrenching than the ending of Vines and Daggers, but it still leaves us with so many questions. I cannot wait to see what happens next for our favorite princess and all her men.

Thank you so much to Rauri Rose and Crowns and Chaos PR for the gifted copy of this book! 🌀🗡️
Profile Image for ThatBook Girl.
144 reviews17 followers
October 18, 2025
While I was hoping to fall head-over-heels for this book like I did with Vines and Daggers, it just didn’t sweep me off my feet this time. Sure, I enjoyed it, but some things left me wanting.

Maybe my disappointment stems from what made book one so special: Sam and Sorin! Their friendship and blossoming connection with Lace were so fun to read, but this sequel barely gives them any screen time. Instead, the spotlight shifts to Lace and the Prince who, unfortunately, has very little growth in his arrogant, often dismissive personality.

Lace didn’t help matters, either. Her choices and reactions were often a little baffling. Sometimes she seemed so clueless and naïve that I just wanted to shake my Kindle. And those one-word question repeats drove me nuts. (One character says something, and she repeats back one of their words as a question. Over and over and over again.)

The strangest moment had to be the riddle scene. The first part was easy, something everyone should know, but Lace was totally stumped and needed a book to figure it out. Then the next part was a wild, tangled mess – so convoluted even the explanation was confusing. And that’s the part Lace somehow solves without much of an issue. It felt very bizarre to me, as did the answer to the riddle and what it meant. Not a fan of that one.

On the bright side, this story introduces a bunch of new characters, and three of them were a blast to meet! My favourite? Lace’s enigmatic and fiercely protective guard, who adds some serious intrigue and charm.

Buckle up for the ending though, because the last chapters are a whirlwind! The pace picks up, and suddenly it’s Lace, her friends, and their captors in an epic showdown, with some surprise allies joining the fray. Mysteries unravel, secrets spill, and just when you think you can breathe… the gang dives right off a cliffhanger, dragging you with them for the next adventure!

Overall, I'd say this is a 3.5 star read for me.
77 reviews14 followers
November 15, 2025
If you’re looking for your next wild ride in a romantasy world, here’s your stop: 𝘊𝘺𝘤𝘭𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘋𝘢𝘨𝘨𝘦𝘳𝘴, Book Two of the 𝙋𝙤𝙬𝙚𝙧𝙛𝙪𝙡 𝙋𝙖𝙬𝙣𝙨 𝙨𝙚𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙨 by Rauri Rose. This sequel takes everything that made 𝘝𝘪𝘯𝘦𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘋𝘢𝘨𝘨𝘦𝘳𝘴(Book one) addictive—court intrigue, morally gray characters, dangerous alliances—and cranks it up. It’s darker, steamier, and emotionally sharper, yet still layered with that enchanting world Rauri Rose is becoming known for.

From the first chapter, you’re pulled back into a realm of royal games and hidden daggers—where trust is a luxury and every choice could tip the balance of power. 𝙰𝚕𝚊𝚌𝚎𝚊𝚗𝚍𝚛𝚊’s journey stands out most: she’s no longer the pawn. She’s learning to play the game on her own terms, and watching her evolution is pure satisfaction.

The worldbuilding is lush and cinematic—full of storms, shadows, and power struggles. Each love interest brings something different to the table, giving the romance an addictive push-and-pull. While the story leans into its darker themes, it still finds moments of softness that hit right in the heart.

What stood out most to me was how Cyclones and Daggers balances heat with heart. The spice is there (definitely enough to raise the temperature), but it never overshadows the emotional core of the story. Instead, it adds depth and tension that feel earned.

Rauri Rose continues to build a world that’s intoxicating, romantic, and just the right amount of dangerous. I finished this one already craving the next installment—and honestly, that’s the best kind of book hangover.
Profile Image for Nikolett Berkiné Varga.
155 reviews7 followers
November 19, 2025
This was such a strong second book. We pick up right after the cliffhanger from book one, and the pacing does not let up. Lace has been captured and separated from the guys, and she is absolutely furious and rightfully so. Her anger, her determination made her even more compelling in this instalment.

The amount of secrets in this series is wild. I still need so many answers, but I loved that a few big ones were finally revealed here. And ohh Lace is no longer just a pawn on the board she’s actively playing the game now, and watching her step into that role was one of my favourite parts of the book.

We also get new characters introduced, and I’m really intrigued to see where Rauri is going with all of them. I have theories about the MMCs and the overall series arc, but when it comes to the actual plot? I won’t lie I have absolutely no idea what’s coming next, and I’m convinced Rauri is the only one who does. This story is a rollercoaster in the best way.

The spice was hot and hit the perfect balance with the plot. We also get more depth to the Prince, and I adore him… even if he makes me want to kick him sometimes. And Sam please, I need more of him. I’m hoping book three gives us more insight into his character.

That ending, though. Another cliffhanger, and a mean one at that. Now I’m desperate for book three to see how everything unfolds.

Overall, an exciting, chaotic, addictive continuation of the series. Thank you to Rauri Rose for the ARC!
Profile Image for Jamie.
3 reviews
October 27, 2025
Really captivating read! I got an arc copy of Ebook directly from the author after being on the arc team for the first book Vines and Daggers. I’ll try to avoid any spoilers, but not promises! Cyclones and Daggers picks up right where we were dropped at the end of the last book; a giant cliffhanger. There are some answers, heaps more mysteries, new characters (maybe a new love interest?!?), and new enemies to face. We see our beloved misfits from book 1 all in new positions of power and shifted dynamics. There’s a lot of world building and details in this book that I was yearning for. Don’t be fooled though, in classic Rauri style there are a lot more questions and mysteries too. The spicy scenes are great, about equal in frequency to the first book, if not slightly less intense. This is mainly a plot building trainer book helping the princess develop her powers and relationship with the prince. Though he wasn’t one of my favourites at first he grew a lot and I have a deeper understanding of why he acts the way he does. I can’t wait for the next book in the series! (There better be another book!!!!)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Amanda Lynch.
43 reviews2 followers
November 12, 2025
Cyclones and Daggers is book 2 in the Powerful Pawns series by Rauri Rose.

This is the continuation of Alaceandra, Sam, Soren and the Prince’s story. It is a why choose, romantasy adventure with a unique magic system.

It picks up where book one left off and I love that! Alaceandra is not a complacent, weak willed princess with no fight in her. She’s the exact opposite which enthralls me with her character.

We have several questions from the first book answered in this one but more questions arise that I’m hoping will be answered in book 3. I found myself yelling at the MMCs more often than not and cheering Alaceandra on as she proved herself confident and powerful time after time.

The banter is wonderful between the characters and the world building is awesome. I can see the story unfold in my mind in a way I haven’t experienced before.

I highly recommend reading Vines and Daggers to see the start of their story. Sam, Soren, The Prince and Alaceandra have a long way to go and I’m excited to see where they go in the next book!
Profile Image for JPreads7.
150 reviews11 followers
November 15, 2025
Thank you to the author and Crowns and Chaos for the ARC!

I do think the writing improved in this second book! This one starts off right where the first book ended and we are thrown into the plot. I definitely think the book was paced well and the timing of things didn’t feel too rushed or too slow. There was not really any new world building so I think that helped with the easily digestible plot.

I feel like the for the most part we had a good balance of plot and romance in this one. We got all of our character from the last book as well as some new ones and another possible love interest 👀 some things were predictable, but I still enjoyed learning the information as well as new info and getting questions I had from the first book. I do think the spice was good in this one and was not too overwhelming, if anything I think there was less spice in this book than the first one.

I am guessing each one of these books is going to do it on one of the MMC’s and I am so excited for the next one if it’s going to be about Sam! Overall I did enjoy this book, it was an easy read.
Profile Image for Courtney.
53 reviews1 follower
November 15, 2025
🌪️🗡️ BOOK REVIEW: Cyclones and Daggers by Rauri Rose

@raurirose did not come to play with this one. Cyclones and Daggers is a whirlwind of sharp edges, slow-burn tension, and worldbuilding that grabs you by the collar and refuses to let go. From the very first chapter, the stakes hit hard, the emotions hit harder, and the characters? Absolutely feral in the best possible way.

I loved how the plot moved like its namesake: fast, twisting, unpredictable…but still anchored by characters with real depth and hurt and hope. The banter? Top tier.

If you want a fantasy that blends danger, desire, and deliciously dark vibes, this one belongs on your shelf immediately.

Would I read it again? Absolutely.
Would I survive in this world? Absolutely not—and that’s why I loved it. Thank you for the opportunity to read @crownsandchaos_pr

Have you picked this one up yet? 🌪️🗡️💙
Profile Image for Curtis.
37 reviews1 follower
October 27, 2025
Disclaimer: I received an E-book ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This book kicks right back up after the events of book one which I always appreciate. We got to see more of the prince and a new character who was intriguing and of course Alaceandra.
The plot was more developed in this book two which it really needed, but still had a few too many gapes for me. It's hard to keep a reader engaged when a lot of the plot revolves around everyone knowing the information except the main character (and reader). I still feel it sacrifices plot of the sake of spicy BUT I know a lot of people read romantasy for that alone so if that's your jam then this would be for you!
Overall it improves in some areas from book one but could use more structure.
Profile Image for Krista Nicole.
250 reviews20 followers
November 10, 2025
This book picks right up where the first left off, following the FMC as she’s been captured and forced to return to the kingdoms and face the kings who have banded together to control her and her newfound powers. She must play a delicate game of giving them enough of what they want while stopping them from corrupting their kingdom, and save her childhood friend that they have hanging over her head. She also must learn if she can trust the prince who may have betrayed her and this new male who is following her around.

Overall this book was an exciting next step in the story. It was fun following as the FMC grew in both her powers and her relationships with the men around her, while balancing her concern for her two childhood friends/love interests. There were plenty of reveals and betrayals that had me shocked and on the edge of my seat and of course an ending that has me wanting the next book like ASAP because I need to know what this crew gets up to! My rating 4.7/5!

Thanks to the author and Crowns and Chaos PR for the gifted copy, all opinions given are my own!
Profile Image for Ashlyn Tickle.
125 reviews2 followers
November 18, 2025
What a great sequel! This why choose Romantasy is everything I’m looking for and there were two VERY pleasant surprises in book 2!! For one we find out the princes true name and there’s an introduction of a character that I feel couldn’t definitely elevate the story and I’m super excited to see where that goes! Alaceandra really starts to come into her own this book after having some growth in book 1. I enjoyed reading about her powers developing especially because there’s such a unique magic system here. They boys were amazing of course but I like that the focus here was primarily on the prince since we don’t know much about him. I know this book just released but I’m so ready for the next one!
Profile Image for Holly Howard.
116 reviews5 followers
November 13, 2025
Just when you think the first book couldn't get any more richer and suspenseful- Cyclones and Daggers said hold my beer.

The worldbuilding was easy to digest and made visualizing effortless.

This book definitely has you feeling though. All the emotions were covered from frustration to kick your feet banter.

There's so much happening at the end of the book that it felt like a reward for the whole journey.

This for sure was a well done spicy why choose fantasy with an epic adventure and charachters with depth.
Profile Image for Nicole.
593 reviews10 followers
November 20, 2025
I really enjoyed this sequel to Vines and Daggers. The world building continued and I love the magic system. But this book had a lot more spice and the why choose aspect was great! I don’t know which MMC I would pick if I had to! I also really think the FMC came into her own with this book. I know there is more to come with book 3 - but this was a really great 2nd book.
Profile Image for Heather Becht (fantasyromantasy).
319 reviews50 followers
November 20, 2025
*** Review to come!

𝓣𝓻𝓸𝓹𝓮𝓼 & 𝓥𝓲𝓫𝓮𝓼:
🗡️Romantasy
🗡️Spicy Reverse Harem
🗡️Royalty & Courtly Intrigue
🗡️Enemies to Lovers
🗡️Unique Magic System
🗡️Action & Adventure
🗡️Animal Sidekick
🗡️Fierce FMC
🗡️Hilarious Banter
🗡️Combat & Training
🗡️Magic & Magical Flying Creatures
🗡️Prophecies
2 reviews
October 17, 2025
This is such a good sequel! I couldn’t stop reading and I never expected the ending.
Profile Image for Caitlin.
862 reviews10 followers
November 14, 2025
This series is so good and I love where it is going! I can't wait for book 3
Profile Image for Torie Raven.
118 reviews1 follower
October 29, 2025
💫✨️Cyclones and Daggers throws us right back into the chaos, picking up exactly where that jaw-dropping Vines and Daggers cliffhanger left off. We finally get some answers, but true to form, even more mysteries start unraveling, and I’m completely hooked all over again.✨️💫

💫The new characters bring so much life and tension to the story (so excited to see where that goes), and the fresh wave of enemies definitely ups the stakes. Our favorites are back too, only now they’re navigating positions of power that test their loyalties, friendships, and hearts. The world feels bigger, richer, and more dangerous than ever packed with the kind of lore and detail I was craving from book one.💫

✨️The final chapters hit like a storm surge fast, fierce, and unforgettable. I closed the book with my jaw on the floor and am so excited to see what comes next.✨️
Profile Image for Ruth.
24 reviews3 followers
November 22, 2025
I love the characters Rauri has created and I am Absolutely invested after reading Vines and Daggers! I was just surprised by how disappointed I was with how much of Cyclones was spent stuck. I was hoping to see more growth between the characters and individual as well.
That being said I still love the characters, the magic system and the world and can’t wait to see what happens next!
1 review
November 17, 2025
Wow! It has taken a couple of days to get all of my thoughts in order to write this review.

First of all, I adored the first book, Vines and Daggers, so I was eagerly awaiting this release. Even more so when I found out it would focus on The Prince (who has been my absolute favorite since the moment we met him).

Now that I have read it…

I am speechless. No matter how good the first book was, Rauri Rose absolutely stepped up her game with this one and made Cyclones and Daggers a book that I have read and reread already.

The way she led us deeper into an immersive experience in Ptheryeth was mind-blowing. Seeing Lace’s development was incredible, especially during training. I adore Prince and Sam’s interactions. And oh my god???? Sydon???? How dare she make a villain that hot.

All in all, this was a book that I adored, will absolutely read again, and has made me desperate for the next installment. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
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