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Shielder #5
Shadow Fires
RWA RITA Nominated Science Fiction Romance!
Jenna dan Aron, a Shielder, lives a solitary existence, shunned by her people because she has visions and can see the future. She’s even foreseen her own destiny: to be a human offering, a mate for a savage Leor warlord. When two Shielder colonies need to be rescued, the Leors who are their only hope demand a bride for their leader in return. Knowing she can’t deny fate, Jenna steps forward.
The Leors are a hybrid race and only part human. Arion of Saura finds mating outside his race abhorrent, but he has no choice, as his kind faces extinction. His life is ruled by hard logic and physical prowess, with no room for softness or emotion. Bound to him, Jenna faces a life of barbarism with a mate who seems more beast than man. In the relentless heat of the wild Sauran desert, Jenna and Arion wage a battle of wills, until they discover that the heart is mightier than any weapon—and that love can forge shadow and fire together.
Jenna dan Aron, a Shielder, lives a solitary existence, shunned by her people because she has visions and can see the future. She’s even foreseen her own destiny: to be a human offering, a mate for a savage Leor warlord. When two Shielder colonies need to be rescued, the Leors who are their only hope demand a bride for their leader in return. Knowing she can’t deny fate, Jenna steps forward.
The Leors are a hybrid race and only part human. Arion of Saura finds mating outside his race abhorrent, but he has no choice, as his kind faces extinction. His life is ruled by hard logic and physical prowess, with no room for softness or emotion. Bound to him, Jenna faces a life of barbarism with a mate who seems more beast than man. In the relentless heat of the wild Sauran desert, Jenna and Arion wage a battle of wills, until they discover that the heart is mightier than any weapon—and that love can forge shadow and fire together.
326 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 1, 2004
20 people are currently reading
306 people want to read
About the author
Catherine Spangler
11 books243 followersCatherine Spangler is a bestselling and award winning author of the Shielder series (futuristic romance)and the Sentinel Series (romantic urban fantasy). She is a two-time Golden Heart finalist and a RITA finalist and has received numerous other awards and honorable mentions.
She is an active member of Romance Writers of America and her local chapter, Dallas Area Romance Authors. A frequent speaker at writers' groups and conferences, she has taught workshops on the creative process, writing techniques, writing paranormal romance, and goal setting.
She lives in north Texas with her husband and a menagerie of critters. She loves reading, taking naps on the sofa with a good football game for background noise, eating chocolate, and playing poker.
Catherine's fun fact: I celebrated the sale of my first book, Shielder, by drinking champagne from a plastic cowboy boot mug. My critique partners brought four of them to my house, along with the champagne. Drinking champagne from those cowboy boot mugs every time one of us sold a book became a tradition, which we still honor.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
September 28, 2016
++SPOILERS++
1 star "I did not like it"
When one finds themself hoping the H & h die, it clearly shows how poorly executed the story was.
The writing itself, technically was good. I'll give credit where credit is due. The world building was decent and the character development was good as well (too bad there was not ONE likable character in the entire story).
I will also admit, the book started out pretty good, unfortunately it went downhill more and more as I progressed. The only thing that kept me reading was the fact it had a decent plot, but then again, who cares? When one cannot connect to any of the characters, how can you care what happenes to them?
I should have taken heed to this person's review:
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
There was zero romance, I mean ZERO. The hero was nasty and treated the heroine like a slave and she was so spineless, weak, prude and stupid I wanted to rip her hair out. Then there were at least a dozen times when the heroine's dim-witted light bulb flashed in her mind at realizing something, that I was like "ya think?"
Needless to say, I kept reading hoping it would improve. I should have quit when the hero forced the heroine into stasis sleep and fondled her unawares at 12 %.
When the H & h finally "fell in love" at like 85% it was too little too late.
I returned this for a refund. I will not be readng any more by this author.
Safety:
No issues except for the groping mentioned above. If having a hero who is condescending, inconsiderate, uncaring and uncompassionate is your thing and you don't mind a heroine who caves to him, doesn't fight back, and accepts being a slave and a possesion, and who also likes being treated like a dog.. go for it.
1 star "I did not like it"
When one finds themself hoping the H & h die, it clearly shows how poorly executed the story was.
The writing itself, technically was good. I'll give credit where credit is due. The world building was decent and the character development was good as well (too bad there was not ONE likable character in the entire story).
I will also admit, the book started out pretty good, unfortunately it went downhill more and more as I progressed. The only thing that kept me reading was the fact it had a decent plot, but then again, who cares? When one cannot connect to any of the characters, how can you care what happenes to them?
I should have taken heed to this person's review:
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
There was zero romance, I mean ZERO. The hero was nasty and treated the heroine like a slave and she was so spineless, weak, prude and stupid I wanted to rip her hair out. Then there were at least a dozen times when the heroine's dim-witted light bulb flashed in her mind at realizing something, that I was like "ya think?"
Needless to say, I kept reading hoping it would improve. I should have quit when the hero forced the heroine into stasis sleep and fondled her unawares at 12 %.
When the H & h finally "fell in love" at like 85% it was too little too late.
I returned this for a refund. I will not be readng any more by this author.
Safety:
No issues except for the groping mentioned above. If having a hero who is condescending, inconsiderate, uncaring and uncompassionate is your thing and you don't mind a heroine who caves to him, doesn't fight back, and accepts being a slave and a possesion, and who also likes being treated like a dog.. go for it.
September 14, 2016
++3.5++
September 15, 2016
3.5 stars
November 28, 2015
Constant catastrophe is not an effective plot device.
If the heroine wasn't having That's So Raven-esque visions every five seconds or running off into the wilderness to get damaged, dehydrated and bruised, this story would have been about absolutely nothing.
The hints about who dunnit were so broad I wanted to hit Jenna over the head with a blunt object.
Jenna? Jenna was Captain Oblivious. TO EVERYTHING.
Romance between Jenna and Arion? Non-existent.
But remember! Sex conquers all.
My foot didn't pop.
DNF @ 79%
If the heroine wasn't having That's So Raven-esque visions every five seconds or running off into the wilderness to get damaged, dehydrated and bruised, this story would have been about absolutely nothing.
The hints about who dunnit were so broad I wanted to hit Jenna over the head with a blunt object.
Jenna? Jenna was Captain Oblivious. TO EVERYTHING.
Romance between Jenna and Arion? Non-existent.
But remember! Sex conquers all.
My foot didn't pop.
DNF @ 79%
December 28, 2014
One of my fave scifi romances. I lovethat she uses someone very alien as the hero and how the heroine teaches him that his society doesn't have to be as rigid and as barbaric, as change will be good for his species' survival. Most of all, how she goes from a wimpy female to someone worthy of his love.
September 15, 2015
In the end, I had to give this book a middle-of-the-road rating. High marks for creativity related to the Leor society and how they fit into the Shielder universe, but low marks for the insipid Jenna.
"Spirit, what could she do? One thing was certain: lying here in the sand, giving in to tears and hopelessness would not help Arion." This quote, which occurs 83% of the way into the book, pretty much sums up my constant impressions of main character Jenna as feeble and not especially clever. Notice I didn't describe her as a "heroine." Jenna is more like a sacrificial lamb. She heads to Saura as the result of a vision that basically tells her she must offer herself to the savage leader of the Leors, Arion. The pity-party started off early: "There was nothing for her in Shamara. Nor did anyone care that her destiny was that of mating with the leader of a barbaric and cruel race. Her life here, and her freedom, had just come to an end." Once on Saura, she suffers unbearable cruelties, such as cut hands, an overly heated bed, hard work and close proximity to an uncommunicative man. Even her impressions of supposed cruelty by the Leors are later proved wrong. Sadly, Jenna is so unaware of potential threats and so inexcusably ignorant of the culture surrounding her, that she finds her only solution is to sacrifice herself again. Heroes are often defined as people who sacrifice themselves for the greater good, and I agree with that notion. Spangler was setting the visionary Shielder up for her big climactic moment, which was perfect for this book, but I just wish there had been more to admire about Jenna along the way.
Speaking of big climaxes, Spangler surprised me with a twist at the end. She foreshadowed it, but how it came about was a complete surprise. The conclusion tied in well with the atmosphere she was building throughout the book and kept the lead roles perfectly in character.
The highlight of this book is the creativity Spangler shows in devising the reptilian Leor people and their spiritual culture. A hard, physical race known to outsiders for their stoicism and cruelty, but who privately observe a societal structure that emphasizes communing with a deity and a strict devotional life was refreshingly original. Intermixing the mystical aspects of the Leor religion with everyday life, the high celebrations, and the settlement's setting was very well done. Spangler also creates an arid atmosphere suitable for the reptilian race. The impact of this atmosphere on Jenna is profound, and I liked the many ways the dwellings and personal hygiene practices of the Leor people showed a habitual adaptation to their reptilian ancestry.
In the final analysis, while I enjoyed visiting Saura and reading about the Leor people, I was disappointed in the lead character. Though told in third person subjective, more time is spent with Jenna than Arion. Jenna was kind, but not inspiring, and I wanted her to be more.
"Spirit, what could she do? One thing was certain: lying here in the sand, giving in to tears and hopelessness would not help Arion." This quote, which occurs 83% of the way into the book, pretty much sums up my constant impressions of main character Jenna as feeble and not especially clever. Notice I didn't describe her as a "heroine." Jenna is more like a sacrificial lamb. She heads to Saura as the result of a vision that basically tells her she must offer herself to the savage leader of the Leors, Arion. The pity-party started off early: "There was nothing for her in Shamara. Nor did anyone care that her destiny was that of mating with the leader of a barbaric and cruel race. Her life here, and her freedom, had just come to an end." Once on Saura, she suffers unbearable cruelties, such as cut hands, an overly heated bed, hard work and close proximity to an uncommunicative man. Even her impressions of supposed cruelty by the Leors are later proved wrong. Sadly, Jenna is so unaware of potential threats and so inexcusably ignorant of the culture surrounding her, that she finds her only solution is to sacrifice herself again. Heroes are often defined as people who sacrifice themselves for the greater good, and I agree with that notion. Spangler was setting the visionary Shielder up for her big climactic moment, which was perfect for this book, but I just wish there had been more to admire about Jenna along the way.
Speaking of big climaxes, Spangler surprised me with a twist at the end. She foreshadowed it, but how it came about was a complete surprise. The conclusion tied in well with the atmosphere she was building throughout the book and kept the lead roles perfectly in character.
The highlight of this book is the creativity Spangler shows in devising the reptilian Leor people and their spiritual culture. A hard, physical race known to outsiders for their stoicism and cruelty, but who privately observe a societal structure that emphasizes communing with a deity and a strict devotional life was refreshingly original. Intermixing the mystical aspects of the Leor religion with everyday life, the high celebrations, and the settlement's setting was very well done. Spangler also creates an arid atmosphere suitable for the reptilian race. The impact of this atmosphere on Jenna is profound, and I liked the many ways the dwellings and personal hygiene practices of the Leor people showed a habitual adaptation to their reptilian ancestry.
In the final analysis, while I enjoyed visiting Saura and reading about the Leor people, I was disappointed in the lead character. Though told in third person subjective, more time is spent with Jenna than Arion. Jenna was kind, but not inspiring, and I wanted her to be more.
March 7, 2009
While technically this is book #5 in a series, it does just fine as a stand-alone. It's also the first novel I've seen where the "alien" has characteristics of a reptilian race! Points for originality there, for sure!
March 23, 2023
I am very on the fence with this book, because there were several instances of WTF that occurred throughout the story. I am used to alien romance where the cultural differences are vast, but this took it to another level. If you like old school, bodice ripper romance, and want to dip your toe into the alien pool, this would be a good place to start. Domineering MMC who cared little for the FMC’s personal autonomy, one seriously questionable scene that could be considered SA, and a lot of emotional constipation to start. However, the emotional connection between them that grew over time is what saved it for me. Their relationship developed slowly, but it felt real and genuine. The MMC really wanted to make their mating work, while still sticking to his culture and traditions. FMC was a little bit of a drama queen at times in her responses to things that happened, but gradually she understood how important it was for her to assimilate with the culture. It was such a different style of alien romance. Not one I’d probably read again but was definitely worth the read to see another writing style in this increasingly popular genre.
April 16, 2012
THE BEST CULTURAL IMMERSION BOOK I'VE EVER READ.
Imagine, being a virgin bride, taken to an alien planet, where the gravity and atmosphere, are overwhelming, and pretty much everyone there sees you as an inferior outsider. The man you’re supposed to marry in a few days, doesn’t want to touch you, refuses to answer any questions, and you are terrorized by his general demeanor and physical prowess.
This is a book about being completely immersed in an alien culture. The heroine is literally thrown into the deep end of the culture shock pool without swimming lessons or a life jacket.
WHAT I LOVED:
Wow!
This book was an emotional roller coaster. The reader felt as isolated as the heroine, as she dauntlessly floundered around trying to make sense of the chaos of her new home.
Physically, she was suffering from the intense heat and higher gravity, not to mention a few minor accidents that were the result of cultural ignorance, that left her with stitches.
Emotionally, she was terrified, and isolated. For instance she as a vegetarian was surrounded by naked savages who ate meat.
But spiritually, she felt like God wanted this marriage to happen.
Finally a novel with a realistic wedding night scene. The pleasure stopped the instant the pain started for the heroine. There was no nonsense of screaming bliss.
SUPER LONG SYNOPSIS:
(I really liked this book)
Heroine Jenna has visions. She is shunned by her people because of them. She knows she will marry an alien who will take her away from all she knows. The hero Arion, her alien shows up at the settlement, and tells the chief he will help save two colonies on the brink of destruction from the evil Controllers, if.... IF they will provide a suitable virgin bride for him.
The chief says, no way, heroine steps up, proves herself and her ability to see the future, is chosen as his bride, and whisked away to the hostile desert world with the cold emotionless, hero, who declares he desires her for breeding purposes, and that no love or emotional ties could be expected from him.
The entire book is a brilliant work of art. It paints scene after scene of a desolate brutal world where humans are slaves with their vocal chords severed and people are executed for accidents. Yet, the people intensely love their God, and struggle for survival against a growing intergalactic threat.
MAJOR SPOILERS:
(Still go out and BUY this book!)
I almost didn’t put this in, but I loved the ending. (I skipped going into work an extra hour just to finish it).
The heroine’s brother shows up, betrays their colony to attackers, and skips out. Jenna, as his blood kin, faces execution in her brother’s place.
Arion claims his right as her husband to die for her instead. He is a beloved leader of his colony. He knew. KNEW that he was going to die for Jenna and still willingly took her place to be executed by exposure in a deep pit.
Jenna discovered that Arion her husband was going to take her place at her execution. Arion never explained her anything that was happening - which was part of the maddening aspect of being totally immersed in their culture where questions are rarely answered.
Then Jenna found out that she could be executed in his stead. She boldly goes to the counsel, placing her life in their hands and walks courageously to the stone to be beheaded. The tribunal excuses her husband who upon being brought from his pit, fights valiantly to be executed in her stead. When it appears he will not win the legal argument, he then insists on being executed with his wife.
The holy man finally steps in, declares the heroine is pregnant, which is really important to these people as their low birth rate is threatening to end their existence as a race. The Chief Head of their race makes a dramatic entrance, declares that an intergalactic war is at hand and suspends all executions, as they will need every available person to win.
Whew!
I probably gave away too much, but this book is so very very good you HAVE to buy it and read it. I ordered the rest of the series as soon as the last page was turned.
Imagine, being a virgin bride, taken to an alien planet, where the gravity and atmosphere, are overwhelming, and pretty much everyone there sees you as an inferior outsider. The man you’re supposed to marry in a few days, doesn’t want to touch you, refuses to answer any questions, and you are terrorized by his general demeanor and physical prowess.
This is a book about being completely immersed in an alien culture. The heroine is literally thrown into the deep end of the culture shock pool without swimming lessons or a life jacket.
WHAT I LOVED:
Wow!
This book was an emotional roller coaster. The reader felt as isolated as the heroine, as she dauntlessly floundered around trying to make sense of the chaos of her new home.
Physically, she was suffering from the intense heat and higher gravity, not to mention a few minor accidents that were the result of cultural ignorance, that left her with stitches.
Emotionally, she was terrified, and isolated. For instance she as a vegetarian was surrounded by naked savages who ate meat.
But spiritually, she felt like God wanted this marriage to happen.
Finally a novel with a realistic wedding night scene. The pleasure stopped the instant the pain started for the heroine. There was no nonsense of screaming bliss.
SUPER LONG SYNOPSIS:
(I really liked this book)
Heroine Jenna has visions. She is shunned by her people because of them. She knows she will marry an alien who will take her away from all she knows. The hero Arion, her alien shows up at the settlement, and tells the chief he will help save two colonies on the brink of destruction from the evil Controllers, if.... IF they will provide a suitable virgin bride for him.
The chief says, no way, heroine steps up, proves herself and her ability to see the future, is chosen as his bride, and whisked away to the hostile desert world with the cold emotionless, hero, who declares he desires her for breeding purposes, and that no love or emotional ties could be expected from him.
The entire book is a brilliant work of art. It paints scene after scene of a desolate brutal world where humans are slaves with their vocal chords severed and people are executed for accidents. Yet, the people intensely love their God, and struggle for survival against a growing intergalactic threat.
MAJOR SPOILERS:
(Still go out and BUY this book!)
I almost didn’t put this in, but I loved the ending. (I skipped going into work an extra hour just to finish it).
The heroine’s brother shows up, betrays their colony to attackers, and skips out. Jenna, as his blood kin, faces execution in her brother’s place.
Arion claims his right as her husband to die for her instead. He is a beloved leader of his colony. He knew. KNEW that he was going to die for Jenna and still willingly took her place to be executed by exposure in a deep pit.
Jenna discovered that Arion her husband was going to take her place at her execution. Arion never explained her anything that was happening - which was part of the maddening aspect of being totally immersed in their culture where questions are rarely answered.
Then Jenna found out that she could be executed in his stead. She boldly goes to the counsel, placing her life in their hands and walks courageously to the stone to be beheaded. The tribunal excuses her husband who upon being brought from his pit, fights valiantly to be executed in her stead. When it appears he will not win the legal argument, he then insists on being executed with his wife.
The holy man finally steps in, declares the heroine is pregnant, which is really important to these people as their low birth rate is threatening to end their existence as a race. The Chief Head of their race makes a dramatic entrance, declares that an intergalactic war is at hand and suspends all executions, as they will need every available person to win.
Whew!
I probably gave away too much, but this book is so very very good you HAVE to buy it and read it. I ordered the rest of the series as soon as the last page was turned.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 25, 2013
The moment that I read the book description I knew that I would really love reading Shadow Fires. It starts with Jenna dan Aron has always been able to have visions of the future. For this precious gift, she has been shunned by her people, even the Shielders. She has a vision four years previous that she is to become a mate of a powerful Leor Warlord. She knows that it is her destiny. Arion of Saura knows he must find a mate, a human one so that his people can prosper. Since their numbers are becoming low. He comes to Jarek to see if there is a willing woman to be traded as his mate. Jenna volunteers knowing that no matter how much she fears this man, she knows he is to be her future mate. At first Jenna is fearful of the powerful Leor, who is known as a brutal race. At first he is in command, expecting her obedience in all things, He soon finds out that human females are far different than Leor female. He expects her to be weak and not be able to handle the kind of lifestyle he knows she must accustom herself through. But cycle after cycle (a day) he is more drawn to this courageous female who stands up to him, despite her apprehension of him. Jenna is at first afraid of this Leor, but knowing he will never raise a hand to her, she learns to start in trusting in his promises and in his honor. Of course she is fearful of strength and abilities, but Jenna despite fears, finds herself forcing herself to stand up to him, and finding a inner strength within herself that she didn't know she had. Thus starts two determined souls trying to find a common ground with one another despite all their different beliefs and ways.
Shadow Fires, was a astounding read, and I was amazed at how well I really enjoyed this one. I was drawn to both Jenna and Arion, who are totally exact opposites but somehow find a way to work things out, and compromise and discover a hidden love that will strengthen them to the end. The sensual passion builds between the two until they mate, which climaxes into wave after wave of a eclipsing desire. Arion of course is a strong willed, used to battle and being in command and being obeyed in all things, definitely all the way Alpha Male. Then he finds himself mated with the one that is the only one that argues and defies him and his barbaric way constantly. Despite all his hardened discipline he finds himself softening toward Jenna, that endeared me to this character completely. Jenna, is a heroine that everyone can fall in love with. She has compassion, courage, inner strength and proving herself constantly in a place where many don't welcome her. But in the end she does find she has many friends, ones who will support her no matter the circumstance. She finally finds a place where she can call "home" after never having one. This book is filled with passion, intriguing scenarios, adventure, danger, and a powerful love that was so emotionally sweeping it will bring a tear to your eye. It is a emotional journey that will take you across the galaxy, and endear you to these character to last lifetimes. I encourage anyone that enjoys a good tearful and emotional romance, to read this series, it has been a pure delight.
Shadow Fires, was a astounding read, and I was amazed at how well I really enjoyed this one. I was drawn to both Jenna and Arion, who are totally exact opposites but somehow find a way to work things out, and compromise and discover a hidden love that will strengthen them to the end. The sensual passion builds between the two until they mate, which climaxes into wave after wave of a eclipsing desire. Arion of course is a strong willed, used to battle and being in command and being obeyed in all things, definitely all the way Alpha Male. Then he finds himself mated with the one that is the only one that argues and defies him and his barbaric way constantly. Despite all his hardened discipline he finds himself softening toward Jenna, that endeared me to this character completely. Jenna, is a heroine that everyone can fall in love with. She has compassion, courage, inner strength and proving herself constantly in a place where many don't welcome her. But in the end she does find she has many friends, ones who will support her no matter the circumstance. She finally finds a place where she can call "home" after never having one. This book is filled with passion, intriguing scenarios, adventure, danger, and a powerful love that was so emotionally sweeping it will bring a tear to your eye. It is a emotional journey that will take you across the galaxy, and endear you to these character to last lifetimes. I encourage anyone that enjoys a good tearful and emotional romance, to read this series, it has been a pure delight.
May 4, 2010
This is the first of this author's books I have tried. I did enjoy it.
I thought at first I was not going to like the hero, Arion. He seemed very dominating and misogynistic. Something I can't stand in real life and not so much in fiction. He soon began to change though and became a very nice man as he tried to be a good husband. The heroine, Jenna, was a little wimpy but had an interior type of courage and did her best to stand up to him within the limits of her personality. She wasn't strident and out to change Leor society. (As another human woman evidently was. Lana must have been the main character in another book and from reading this one, I know that I don't want to read her story. She was a ludicrous stereotype and I cringed every time she was present.)
So the two main characters were very well written and fairly true to themselves. I had a problem with some of the Leor politics in that SPOILERS there was a character who had to die because he had accidently killed another Leor man in a drunken brawl. So here we have a society at war with outposts being wiped out and who have a low birth rate that they are trying to address and they kill a guy over an accident. It would have made more sense that instead of two fatherless families, the man should have been made to provide for both families. I guess the point is that the Leor have a very hidebound rigid society and over the course of the book are being made to see that they must change and adapt.
So all in all I guess it was pretty good. Well written and I liked the climax at the end as I am fond of the sacrifice all for love type of romances. Pretty good sci fi romance.
I thought at first I was not going to like the hero, Arion. He seemed very dominating and misogynistic. Something I can't stand in real life and not so much in fiction. He soon began to change though and became a very nice man as he tried to be a good husband. The heroine, Jenna, was a little wimpy but had an interior type of courage and did her best to stand up to him within the limits of her personality. She wasn't strident and out to change Leor society. (As another human woman evidently was. Lana must have been the main character in another book and from reading this one, I know that I don't want to read her story. She was a ludicrous stereotype and I cringed every time she was present.)
So the two main characters were very well written and fairly true to themselves. I had a problem with some of the Leor politics in that SPOILERS there was a character who had to die because he had accidently killed another Leor man in a drunken brawl. So here we have a society at war with outposts being wiped out and who have a low birth rate that they are trying to address and they kill a guy over an accident. It would have made more sense that instead of two fatherless families, the man should have been made to provide for both families. I guess the point is that the Leor have a very hidebound rigid society and over the course of the book are being made to see that they must change and adapt.
So all in all I guess it was pretty good. Well written and I liked the climax at the end as I am fond of the sacrifice all for love type of romances. Pretty good sci fi romance.
June 13, 2010
I really wanted to like this book, as it had both futuristic romance and a marriage of convenience. However, this book seemed to ignore the basic rule of futuristic romance with an alien hero - that the alien hero should be in some way compelling. The alien culture here was deeply unappealing, both physically and mentally/emotionally/socially, but I also really wanted to throttle the heroine. In the end, I simply could not be bothered to finish it,
April 16, 2022
No matter what, the practice of slaves, buying of slaves and or selling of slaves is a no no for me
November 20, 2024
**MINOR SPOILERS**
This book is the fifth and last book in Shielder series. I think it can be read as a standalone. Other characters from the series appear. The author has won awards for her writing.
The author has done a good job at creating this world. The Leors are descendants of a human/ reptile cross and have characteristics of both sides although the human side is dominant. They are very strong and fast and their society values toughness and discipline. Shielders are people born with a natural ability to shield their thoughts from a race called the Controllers who are trying to rule the galaxy. The Controllers decide to slaughter races that get in the way of their rule of the galaxy. In past books, the Controllers had targeted the Shielders until they found a way to escape (see book 3). In this book, the Controllers have now turned their eye on the Leors. Spoiler… the book ends with a war eminent between the Leors and the Controllers and I think there could have been additional books in the series.
Arion, is a Leor and a leader of a clan. The leader of all the clans, Gunnar, appeared in book 3 and mated with a human, Lani. He is happy in his mating to Lani. In this book, he has decreed that, because there aren’t many Leors left and inbreeding is a problem, all clan leaders should marry a human. Arion reluctantly agrees to do so and looks amongst the Shielders for a possible mate. Jenna agrees to the marriage on behalf of the Shielders because Arion has threatened the mutually beneficial trading that occurs between their peoples.
Jenna has visions and has been ostracized by some Shielders. I thought this was a bit artificial, but it created a history of feeling separate. She decides that being with the Leors could be no worse and she has had a vision of this very circumstance. Note for geeks of the series: the Shen in book 3 say that the Spirit does not give visions of the future. Though this is a minor point, the author could have addressed the fact that some people can.
Her transition to Leor society is difficult as most of the Leors feel superior and do not think they need to explain things to her. Arion is a chauvinist and expects obedience from his crew and Jenna. One thing that was not clear to me is why she did not have respect as the wife of the leader, but racism can trump protocol.
The Leor society includes slaves. Jenna is rightly upset about this and some of their other practices. She has difficulty with many of them and the author did a decent job of showing dismay and acting towards change, but I thought it would have been good for Jenna to see growth in her ability to work towards changing what she did not like.
Arion also has growth during the book. At the beginning he prides himself on discipline and doing his duty. He has a cold streak that seems cruel at times and Jenna is interprets it as lacking in mercy and caring. Arion eventually begins to allow himself to feel and tries to make Jenna accept her new life and their mating. By the end of the book, he still is bossy but there is a fundamental change in the way he cares about Jenna and respects her.
In addition, she was injured or incapacitated too many times during the book. I think the author did this to show the development of Arion’s softer side, but it was a little too much.
I was undecided between 4 and 5 stars but leaning towards 5. Because of the events in the epilogue, I decided on 5 stars.
This book is the fifth and last book in Shielder series. I think it can be read as a standalone. Other characters from the series appear. The author has won awards for her writing.
The author has done a good job at creating this world. The Leors are descendants of a human/ reptile cross and have characteristics of both sides although the human side is dominant. They are very strong and fast and their society values toughness and discipline. Shielders are people born with a natural ability to shield their thoughts from a race called the Controllers who are trying to rule the galaxy. The Controllers decide to slaughter races that get in the way of their rule of the galaxy. In past books, the Controllers had targeted the Shielders until they found a way to escape (see book 3). In this book, the Controllers have now turned their eye on the Leors. Spoiler… the book ends with a war eminent between the Leors and the Controllers and I think there could have been additional books in the series.
Arion, is a Leor and a leader of a clan. The leader of all the clans, Gunnar, appeared in book 3 and mated with a human, Lani. He is happy in his mating to Lani. In this book, he has decreed that, because there aren’t many Leors left and inbreeding is a problem, all clan leaders should marry a human. Arion reluctantly agrees to do so and looks amongst the Shielders for a possible mate. Jenna agrees to the marriage on behalf of the Shielders because Arion has threatened the mutually beneficial trading that occurs between their peoples.
Jenna has visions and has been ostracized by some Shielders. I thought this was a bit artificial, but it created a history of feeling separate. She decides that being with the Leors could be no worse and she has had a vision of this very circumstance. Note for geeks of the series: the Shen in book 3 say that the Spirit does not give visions of the future. Though this is a minor point, the author could have addressed the fact that some people can.
Her transition to Leor society is difficult as most of the Leors feel superior and do not think they need to explain things to her. Arion is a chauvinist and expects obedience from his crew and Jenna. One thing that was not clear to me is why she did not have respect as the wife of the leader, but racism can trump protocol.
The Leor society includes slaves. Jenna is rightly upset about this and some of their other practices. She has difficulty with many of them and the author did a decent job of showing dismay and acting towards change, but I thought it would have been good for Jenna to see growth in her ability to work towards changing what she did not like.
Arion also has growth during the book. At the beginning he prides himself on discipline and doing his duty. He has a cold streak that seems cruel at times and Jenna is interprets it as lacking in mercy and caring. Arion eventually begins to allow himself to feel and tries to make Jenna accept her new life and their mating. By the end of the book, he still is bossy but there is a fundamental change in the way he cares about Jenna and respects her.
In addition, she was injured or incapacitated too many times during the book. I think the author did this to show the development of Arion’s softer side, but it was a little too much.
I was undecided between 4 and 5 stars but leaning towards 5. Because of the events in the epilogue, I decided on 5 stars.
September 10, 2018
Decent read.
I will admit that I stopped a couple of times, skipped a couple of chapters, watched TV, read other books etc etc...but the most important part is that I came back to read this...and actually read it to the end lol.
Very very few 'barbarian ' romance deal with physical abuse appropriately. Most times a man 'arouse' a woman during sex with a couple of butt smacks, punishing them physically for rules they break, grab her or push her around just because they are physically smaller then the man. It's what the women have to accept and convince themselves that it's a turn on.
However in this story Jenna tells Arion straight from the get go " your word, please that you will never hit me". Even if she makes the ultimate sacrifice into a society that accepts slavery, murder of innocents, etc etc, she knew that she would not accept that. What a shocker that a woman stands up for herself even when she is a timid and introverted character. Mind you it was probably the only time she stood up for herself but it was gratifying that she at least stated it.
The other good thing is Arion. I'm not saying by any stretch of the imagination that I actually liked him. Took brutal, insufferable, and domineering to an uncomfortable heights but he at least tried. He tried to get to know her, tried learn what would make her happy, tried to physically satisfy her (not relying on the thought that if you have d*** and slept with a lot of women that automatically means your good at sex) any treats her respectfully, waiting until she got use to her new home.And spoiler alert almost dies for her.
Very very unique but mostly for me...gratifying. I'm not sure why physically abusing woman somehow translates to love but it is not.
I will admit that I stopped a couple of times, skipped a couple of chapters, watched TV, read other books etc etc...but the most important part is that I came back to read this...and actually read it to the end lol.
Very very few 'barbarian ' romance deal with physical abuse appropriately. Most times a man 'arouse' a woman during sex with a couple of butt smacks, punishing them physically for rules they break, grab her or push her around just because they are physically smaller then the man. It's what the women have to accept and convince themselves that it's a turn on.
However in this story Jenna tells Arion straight from the get go " your word, please that you will never hit me". Even if she makes the ultimate sacrifice into a society that accepts slavery, murder of innocents, etc etc, she knew that she would not accept that. What a shocker that a woman stands up for herself even when she is a timid and introverted character. Mind you it was probably the only time she stood up for herself but it was gratifying that she at least stated it.
The other good thing is Arion. I'm not saying by any stretch of the imagination that I actually liked him. Took brutal, insufferable, and domineering to an uncomfortable heights but he at least tried. He tried to get to know her, tried learn what would make her happy, tried to physically satisfy her (not relying on the thought that if you have d*** and slept with a lot of women that automatically means your good at sex) any treats her respectfully, waiting until she got use to her new home.And spoiler alert almost dies for her.
Very very unique but mostly for me...gratifying. I'm not sure why physically abusing woman somehow translates to love but it is not.
May 20, 2019
There was nothing wrong with the book, but the story was just boring and lacked any action or serious plot. Some stuff happened, then more stuff happened, then something else happened. It was all somewhat predictable as well.
August 30, 2024
I liked the world building and the premise of the book, but the characters themselves irritated me. I only kept reading cause I wanted to know how it ended. Also I feel like their romance wasn't fleshed out well. Also would've liked to see more exploration of Jenna's powers! It could've been so much cooler but left me feeling frustrated.
September 11, 2018
Ain’t love grand.
November 21, 2015
Shadow Fires features Shielder Jenna dan Aron, who gives up the life she knows in order to help her own people. Four seasons ago, Jenna’s vision foretold Arion’s visit and the price he would ask for his services. A mate. Jenna agrees to become the mate of Comdar Arion of the Leors in order to help her fellow Shielders.
Jenna is different. Her abilities have set her apart from her people. The people of the Shielder community are afraid of her visions. The avoid her. They shun her. This has made Jenna a loner, avoiding contact with everyone. As a result, Jenna is NOT a smart-talking, butt-kicking heroine that doesn’t take crap from anyone. But it is the very nature of a shunned recluse that makes Jenna a true heroine.
Jenna is brave to come forward and agree to become Arion’s mate, when she has never met him before and it means leaving behind everything she ever knew. She is brave to travel to a new planet and agree to live in a desert climate and home that is not made for Shielder comfort. And she is brave to put up with Leor prejudice and resentment even though she has done nothing to cause it, all the while eschewing conflict with other Leors.
A heroine is someone who, when the need arises, willingly embraces the unknown. So yes, Jenna is an awesome heroine!
As the hero, Comdar Arion’s role in Shadow Fires was vexatious. Oh he is strong and handsome and protective. But Arion is totally lacking in any relevant information about Humans. So while Jenna is quietly struggling to adapt to life among the Leors, Arion is slow to figure out what she needs to do so. Therefore drawing out the getting-to-know-you phase of the courtship. Sometimes humorous, sometime frustrating and sometimes heartwarming, the love story in Shadow Fires is always interesting.
I liked the setting in a Leor society on a desert planet. Ms. Spangler has imagined a marvelous world and culture. The Leor’s appear to live in primitive conditions, but their defensive technology is top-notch. They are a very spiritual society that embraces knowledge and enforces strict adherence to their laws. The rest of the universe views them as savage, primitive and even cruel warriors. Experiencing outsider Jenna getting to know the real Leors was enlightening.
If you have read any of the Shielder series, you know the political environment of the universe is rife with conflict and conspiracies and double-dealing bad guys. In Shadow Fires, there are hints of this throughout the book and towards the end, there is a focus on this political intrigue. It added insight to the big picture Controller problem and depth to the story. However, I felt this bit of the story was not so interesting because as I was reading it, I was anticipating the outcome. And I was pretty darn close.
Shadow Fires is the latest book in Catherine Spangler’s Shielder series. Like all books in the series, it stands on its own. The first book, Shielder, is still my favorite as it was my introduction to Ms. Spangler. But I think Jenna’s and Arion’s story is the most compelling of the series. I hope you will give Shadow Fires a try.
May joy be your shadow. — Shielder Blessing
Originally posted at Smart Girls Love Sci Fi Romance.
Jenna is different. Her abilities have set her apart from her people. The people of the Shielder community are afraid of her visions. The avoid her. They shun her. This has made Jenna a loner, avoiding contact with everyone. As a result, Jenna is NOT a smart-talking, butt-kicking heroine that doesn’t take crap from anyone. But it is the very nature of a shunned recluse that makes Jenna a true heroine.
Jenna is brave to come forward and agree to become Arion’s mate, when she has never met him before and it means leaving behind everything she ever knew. She is brave to travel to a new planet and agree to live in a desert climate and home that is not made for Shielder comfort. And she is brave to put up with Leor prejudice and resentment even though she has done nothing to cause it, all the while eschewing conflict with other Leors.
A heroine is someone who, when the need arises, willingly embraces the unknown. So yes, Jenna is an awesome heroine!
As the hero, Comdar Arion’s role in Shadow Fires was vexatious. Oh he is strong and handsome and protective. But Arion is totally lacking in any relevant information about Humans. So while Jenna is quietly struggling to adapt to life among the Leors, Arion is slow to figure out what she needs to do so. Therefore drawing out the getting-to-know-you phase of the courtship. Sometimes humorous, sometime frustrating and sometimes heartwarming, the love story in Shadow Fires is always interesting.
I liked the setting in a Leor society on a desert planet. Ms. Spangler has imagined a marvelous world and culture. The Leor’s appear to live in primitive conditions, but their defensive technology is top-notch. They are a very spiritual society that embraces knowledge and enforces strict adherence to their laws. The rest of the universe views them as savage, primitive and even cruel warriors. Experiencing outsider Jenna getting to know the real Leors was enlightening.
If you have read any of the Shielder series, you know the political environment of the universe is rife with conflict and conspiracies and double-dealing bad guys. In Shadow Fires, there are hints of this throughout the book and towards the end, there is a focus on this political intrigue. It added insight to the big picture Controller problem and depth to the story. However, I felt this bit of the story was not so interesting because as I was reading it, I was anticipating the outcome. And I was pretty darn close.
Shadow Fires is the latest book in Catherine Spangler’s Shielder series. Like all books in the series, it stands on its own. The first book, Shielder, is still my favorite as it was my introduction to Ms. Spangler. But I think Jenna’s and Arion’s story is the most compelling of the series. I hope you will give Shadow Fires a try.
May joy be your shadow. — Shielder Blessing
Originally posted at Smart Girls Love Sci Fi Romance.
October 23, 2013
Doubtful look…
On the one hand, it sure was nice to have a heroine that didn't make me want to kneecap her and break all her fingers so she could never steal another ship (or at least move fast enough to exercise her right to bad judgement while endangering others). On the other hand…
Pacing was an issue. You get the whole "donate a female to be mate" thing in the first chapter or two - which she expected, being a seer and all. Then she's being put in stasis, waking up, getting married and… spending the next 2/3 of the book getting to know the H better before the alignment of the moon and stars and stuff makes optimal mating in the religious sense. This was several days. Yeah; days. During this time, every time she was confronted with his people's laws, her immediate response was "how barbaric". To the point that my immediate response was "what a judgmental beeeaaach" Then *bam* they get it on and the next several days pass in a paragraph (or was it weeks, I'm not entirely sure).
This all comes to a head when her brother (who disappeared 14 years prior - around the time their parents died) rears his head and assists a couple of traitors in allowing the settlement to be attacked, which leads to the Leors demanding retribution - her - and the H offering himself instead, only to be thwarted in his heroic self-sacrifice by some of the most melodramatic crap I've read - in the last chapter mind you.
This was the last book of the series - that was released. There was the sense that more was planned but you know, at this point, I don't give a shit. Too many heroines needing their arses kicked for my taste.
On the one hand, it sure was nice to have a heroine that didn't make me want to kneecap her and break all her fingers so she could never steal another ship (or at least move fast enough to exercise her right to bad judgement while endangering others). On the other hand…
Pacing was an issue. You get the whole "donate a female to be mate" thing in the first chapter or two - which she expected, being a seer and all. Then she's being put in stasis, waking up, getting married and… spending the next 2/3 of the book getting to know the H better before the alignment of the moon and stars and stuff makes optimal mating in the religious sense. This was several days. Yeah; days. During this time, every time she was confronted with his people's laws, her immediate response was "how barbaric". To the point that my immediate response was "what a judgmental beeeaaach" Then *bam* they get it on and the next several days pass in a paragraph (or was it weeks, I'm not entirely sure).
This all comes to a head when her brother (who disappeared 14 years prior - around the time their parents died) rears his head and assists a couple of traitors in allowing the settlement to be attacked, which leads to the Leors demanding retribution - her - and the H offering himself instead, only to be thwarted in his heroic self-sacrifice by some of the most melodramatic crap I've read - in the last chapter mind you.
This was the last book of the series - that was released. There was the sense that more was planned but you know, at this point, I don't give a shit. Too many heroines needing their arses kicked for my taste.
September 21, 2018
This is one of my all time favorite books! I absolutely love the story line and the characters and have re-read this book MANY times! Jenna lives a solitary life among her people, the Shielders. The shun her for the visions that make her different. Many years ago, she had a vision of her own future and the time has come to live up to the reality of that vision. She must become the mate of a Leor warlord, providing a new infusion of genetics into a species on the verge of extinction.
Arion finds the idea of mating outside his race abhorrent, but he will do what he must to save him people. He will resign himself to having a weak, puny human female as a mate, but he won't let it change his life. Now, they both must deal with dramatic life changes. Jenna is thrust into a barbaric society that still uses slaves, believes in retribution and frowns at excessive emotions. And Arion must learn to listen when others talk about patience, stress, something no Leor understands, and, oh yeah, a new and growing emotional bond with another person.
An excellent read as a standalone novel even though it is a part of the Shielder series. I'll admit that I've only read one other novel in this series myself. I was actually worried that they wouldn't live up to how much a loved this novel, so haven't really given them a chance!
Arion finds the idea of mating outside his race abhorrent, but he will do what he must to save him people. He will resign himself to having a weak, puny human female as a mate, but he won't let it change his life. Now, they both must deal with dramatic life changes. Jenna is thrust into a barbaric society that still uses slaves, believes in retribution and frowns at excessive emotions. And Arion must learn to listen when others talk about patience, stress, something no Leor understands, and, oh yeah, a new and growing emotional bond with another person.
An excellent read as a standalone novel even though it is a part of the Shielder series. I'll admit that I've only read one other novel in this series myself. I was actually worried that they wouldn't live up to how much a loved this novel, so haven't really given them a chance!
August 25, 2012
In order to save her people, Jenna dan Aron volunteers to marry Arion of Saura, the leader of the Leor people (a reptilian-like race). Unfortunately, Arion was an arrogant prick (a cruel brute, way more than just alpha). And the whole alien culture was oppressive and unappealing with slavery, unwarranted brutality and a severely hot climate. Jenna definitely got the worse part of this bargain. Luckily for her, Arion's personality started to change and he became a man worthy of a princess.
I almost gave up on this book (though I greatly enjoyed the others in the series) as there just wasn't anything redeemable about the hero. I'm glad I finished it as it ended positively (as all romances should). I assume, at some point, book 6 will be available and I will definitely be reading it - to see how the Shielder society defeats the Controller.
I almost gave up on this book (though I greatly enjoyed the others in the series) as there just wasn't anything redeemable about the hero. I'm glad I finished it as it ended positively (as all romances should). I assume, at some point, book 6 will be available and I will definitely be reading it - to see how the Shielder society defeats the Controller.
October 2, 2010
The fifth book in the Shielder series, this is the FIRST book I read in this series and the one that got me to read the rest. This is the most alien book in the whole series as it focuses on the Leor male protagonist -- a reptilian-like race -- and a female Shielder as romantic central figures. The whole story takes place in the Leor planet. The romance itself is well developed as it takes the pair a while to bond, but when they do it's well done. Spangler also shows creativity when creating this alien world.
After reading the series in order and re-reading this book, I found some inconsistencies in the heroine's personal conflicts, plus the fact that the Controllers are again the villains of the piece gives the overall storyline a predictable feel. Having said that, when I first read this book, it felt both fresh AND creative.
After reading the series in order and re-reading this book, I found some inconsistencies in the heroine's personal conflicts, plus the fact that the Controllers are again the villains of the piece gives the overall storyline a predictable feel. Having said that, when I first read this book, it felt both fresh AND creative.
June 13, 2015
I always did go for that Yul Brynner look. Maybe that is what attracted me to Catherine Spangler's Shadow Fires. In addition to the uber alpha male (almost too alpha at times) it included a self sacrificing heroine who wondered what she had gotten herself into even as she wormed her way into his heart. That the Leor warlord required his bride to be a virgin was no surprise. Those I-am-the-male-listen-to-me-woman types are often like that. But, that the big, strong, extremely male Leors were themselves virgin until they married was a shocker and a nice touch. Original and refreshing. Of course all scifi romances should have some drama. Shadow Fires included some treachery that, while predictable, was still engrossing, especially the consequences evolving from it. I admit, I cried. This is the fifth in the Shielder series. I enjoyed this so much I want to go check out the previous four.
December 3, 2014
Story had a good premise.
What I liked:
-Aliens actually had alien features
-story moved at a good pace
-the growth of the H from domineering to slightly less domineering and more understanding
What I disliked:
-Author kept feeding me information. If an author has described a feeling, please give the reader credit that he/she will understand what that information meant, you do not have to tell us what it meant right after describing it. It's an insult as a reader.
-too much repetition. The author kept explaining the same things over and over again.
-the h is described as resigned to her fate in the beginning of the book, but throughout the book does some really naive things that completely contradict her cool headedness at the beginning of the book
What I liked:
-Aliens actually had alien features
-story moved at a good pace
-the growth of the H from domineering to slightly less domineering and more understanding
What I disliked:
-Author kept feeding me information. If an author has described a feeling, please give the reader credit that he/she will understand what that information meant, you do not have to tell us what it meant right after describing it. It's an insult as a reader.
-too much repetition. The author kept explaining the same things over and over again.
-the h is described as resigned to her fate in the beginning of the book, but throughout the book does some really naive things that completely contradict her cool headedness at the beginning of the book
May 5, 2016
This was almmmooosttt a 5 star read for. I couldn't put it down and I love the world building. This is the first book I've read of this series, but I'll definitely be picking up some of the earlier ones and reading more from this author.
The only reason why it wasn't a home run was because I felt Arion's character changed a lot when he was mated. He goes from cold and unyielding to affectionate and soft and I wish that there was a transition period between the two to make their romance seem a little bit more believable.
But overall, a great read that kept me well up into the early hours of morning!
The only reason why it wasn't a home run was because I felt Arion's character changed a lot when he was mated. He goes from cold and unyielding to affectionate and soft and I wish that there was a transition period between the two to make their romance seem a little bit more believable.
But overall, a great read that kept me well up into the early hours of morning!
February 26, 2009
Very strange novel with a clairvoyant princess who willingly leaves her home planet to marry a lizard man for political truce. The lizard man's home planet is unbearably hot, humans are kept as slaves and have their vocal chords cut so they won't revolt, and society is strictly regimented in a caste system. Essentially very little about this story is romantic, but it is a very interesting tale, pretty much a classic science fiction type of story with a heavy splash of emotional inner life.
June 18, 2015
Now this book right here us the reason why I picked this series. Now I was gonna do right by the series and read them accordingly in their order but after reading the Shielder, I just couldn't wait!
And so here i am :D
Absolutely loved it! Brilliant.
It was like a shorter version of one of my favorite novels, Golden Dynasty by Kristen Ashley.
so amazing. 3.75 stars
And so here i am :D
Absolutely loved it! Brilliant.
It was like a shorter version of one of my favorite novels, Golden Dynasty by Kristen Ashley.
so amazing. 3.75 stars
August 31, 2015
3.5 stars
I didn't like the hero initially, he came across as a bit of a bully. I guess that made his character development more obvious, because by the end he was very sweet. I had conflicting feelings about the heroine. The main disappointment was plot was kinda obvious and the bad guy didn't get punished. Overall an ok read.
I didn't like the hero initially, he came across as a bit of a bully. I guess that made his character development more obvious, because by the end he was very sweet. I had conflicting feelings about the heroine. The main disappointment was plot was kinda obvious and the bad guy didn't get punished. Overall an ok read.
November 13, 2011
A futuristic with an old-fashioned feel. Super-hyper-alpha male—who’s not even quite the same species—and heroine who has visions of the future and never fit in anywhere. Hero was a bit too arrogant, but it was a good fun read.
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