To end centuries of bloodshed, Leira is bound by blood to a naga war commander, a living seal between enemies whose hatred runs as deep as the scars of war.
As enemies coil in shadows and betrayal strikes from within, Varok must choose between the vengeance of his past and the human who is prophesied to change the fate of his people forever.
Hunted by forces determined to see peace fail, their forbidden desire may be the only weapon capable of surviving the coming storm or the spark that consumes them both.
~An adult epic fantasy romance (18+) featuring naga heroes, ancient prophecy, enemies-to-lovers tension, forbidden desire, and elemental power that refuses to stay buried. Author’s This is an adult epic fantasy romance with naga heroes, ancient prophecy, elemental awakening, and a fated bond forged to end a centuries-long war. Naga characters are serpentine and fully non-human, portrayed consistently with their mythic physiology.
Yet again, Ms Strom has enthralled me with her words. Essentially pawns in a battle of egos, in Bride of the Serpent Stones, Leira, a human female and Varok, a Naga male, are blood bound in a peace treaty designed to end centuries of conflict between the two races.
The saga unfolds in the unexpectedly beautiful subterranean world of the Naga, so eloquently described, it is easy to envisage, as are the myriad characters who inhabit it. As Leira and Varok adjust to the monumental changes in their lives, they must navigate more than their own differences. Not everyone believes the peace is the best answer and hatred driven by past wrongs simmers under the surface. Trust and loyalty are tested as old grudges rear their heads in this fast paced, roller coaster ride of a tale.
It is testament to Ms Strom's talent that not only can a reptilian hero become utterly irresistible, but also when an unwilling bond forged by necessity evolves into something enduring, passionate and devoted, it feels natural rather than perverse.
I was completely vested in this story and the suddenly entwined fortunes of Leira and Varok, and their circle of friends. I am on tenterhooks for the next installment.
I hate snakes and stay away from reading them. Iona Strom is one of my favorite authors and gave it a try and I was blown away as always when reading her books. Can not wait until April for the second book. I hope Malikor and Sareth have their own books.