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The Twelve Kingdoms #0.5
Negotiation
A Story of the Twelve Kingdoms
A wounded warrior trapped by the sorceress who knows him better than he does himself…
General Uorsin escapes the last devastating battle, only to find himself alone on a mountain, feverish and no closer to finding the paradise that drives him on. Salena, greatest shapeshifter and magic-worker of her people, springs the trap she’s set to protect her land—and to prevent the ravager Uorsin from ever reaching it.
Together, they spend a night setting the terms that will determine not only the rest of their lives, but the fates of the peoples of the Twelve Kingdoms—and the thirteenth.
A wounded warrior trapped by the sorceress who knows him better than he does himself…
General Uorsin escapes the last devastating battle, only to find himself alone on a mountain, feverish and no closer to finding the paradise that drives him on. Salena, greatest shapeshifter and magic-worker of her people, springs the trap she’s set to protect her land—and to prevent the ravager Uorsin from ever reaching it.
Together, they spend a night setting the terms that will determine not only the rest of their lives, but the fates of the peoples of the Twelve Kingdoms—and the thirteenth.
31 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 23, 2015
27 people are currently reading
290 people want to read
About the author
Jeffe Kennedy
99 books1,339 followers💙She/her💙 Award-winning Bestselling Author of epic fantasy romance. Taoist. Swiftie. Santa Fean. Cat lady @sfwa_inc Past-President. Rep by @seyitsme
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
August 27, 2015
This is the prequel to the Twelve Kingdoms books :)
Ok so this was a short story, not a lot to say. We go back in time to see how Uorsin (that bastard) and Salena first met and made their deal. Their deal that now shapes their children. And well, she was brave, I could never have done what she did...
Ok so this was a short story, not a lot to say. We go back in time to see how Uorsin (that bastard) and Salena first met and made their deal. Their deal that now shapes their children. And well, she was brave, I could never have done what she did...
November 2, 2018
Its going to be interesting to see how the next book plays out.
July 8, 2025
What an introduction to a series! I feel like I learned so much and nothing at all
May 26, 2015
This Review was first published on my blog Lecture toute une Aventure
For a limited time only, this book will be free on all eretailers( smashwords, amazon etc) so don't hesitate to give it a try
I love when a novella gives us a real insight into the story and author’s writing style which is what “Negociation” does. If like me you haven’t started the series yet this prequel is a wonderful entry in this universe in which the author put a lot of work building.
You can see how engaging her writing is and all the complexity of the world but also how determined the characters can be….Jeffe really put a lot of thinking into her character building and it shows even in such a short story. Salena knows what she wants and she did think, a lot even, before acting even if the outcome she knows will happen isn’t ideal, far from it;…I’m not sure I would have been able to make the same choice as her.
Uorsin….i don’t like him he makes my skin crawls and I fear Salena did not measure all consequences and even that aside just how he considers women makes me disliking him greatly.
And here come the detail that perhaps makes this series not one for me at the moment despite all the beauty of this universe and lovely writing…. In this series the women are acting, they are not simple trophies so far so good but even from this novella we can get that the author isn’t against making them use sex as a weapon…. I’m not naïve, I know women in all history often had to use that trick, weapon to survive or worse and I can read paranormal romance so it’s not the description that really bothers me either.- By the way in the novella they only speak of it, no steamy scene or nothing so don’t hesitate to give it a try- It’s just that I’m not comfortable with that idea, at least at this moment.
This is a fantasy romance so you can expect a mix of them and there isn’t a perfect ideal balance either it depends on the moment if fantasy or romance must be prevalent. I have no problem with that….after all I need some romance in my books but it’s also the reason why I can’t take it lightly either.. I want love not sex ( not sure if I’m being clear) so I fear it will come to clash for me at some moment of the story….the question is will this fear be enough to prevent me for trying….i don’t think so but at least I come prepared.I did like this novella!
So do I recommend this novella? DEFINITIVELY! Either you will be in love with the universe and jump on the first book if you haven’t already or it will at least gives you a really good idea of the style so you can make your choice in all conscience but one thing for sure the author is more than talented and really kind so don’t hesitate to send her a message if you read her books.
For a limited time only, this book will be free on all eretailers( smashwords, amazon etc) so don't hesitate to give it a try
I love when a novella gives us a real insight into the story and author’s writing style which is what “Negociation” does. If like me you haven’t started the series yet this prequel is a wonderful entry in this universe in which the author put a lot of work building.
You can see how engaging her writing is and all the complexity of the world but also how determined the characters can be….Jeffe really put a lot of thinking into her character building and it shows even in such a short story. Salena knows what she wants and she did think, a lot even, before acting even if the outcome she knows will happen isn’t ideal, far from it;…I’m not sure I would have been able to make the same choice as her.
Uorsin….i don’t like him he makes my skin crawls and I fear Salena did not measure all consequences and even that aside just how he considers women makes me disliking him greatly.
And here come the detail that perhaps makes this series not one for me at the moment despite all the beauty of this universe and lovely writing…. In this series the women are acting, they are not simple trophies so far so good but even from this novella we can get that the author isn’t against making them use sex as a weapon…. I’m not naïve, I know women in all history often had to use that trick, weapon to survive or worse and I can read paranormal romance so it’s not the description that really bothers me either.- By the way in the novella they only speak of it, no steamy scene or nothing so don’t hesitate to give it a try- It’s just that I’m not comfortable with that idea, at least at this moment.
This is a fantasy romance so you can expect a mix of them and there isn’t a perfect ideal balance either it depends on the moment if fantasy or romance must be prevalent. I have no problem with that….after all I need some romance in my books but it’s also the reason why I can’t take it lightly either.. I want love not sex ( not sure if I’m being clear) so I fear it will come to clash for me at some moment of the story….the question is will this fear be enough to prevent me for trying….i don’t think so but at least I come prepared.I did like this novella!
So do I recommend this novella? DEFINITIVELY! Either you will be in love with the universe and jump on the first book if you haven’t already or it will at least gives you a really good idea of the style so you can make your choice in all conscience but one thing for sure the author is more than talented and really kind so don’t hesitate to send her a message if you read her books.
May 31, 2015
Negotiation is a re-released prequel short from Ms. Kennedy's wonderful Twelve Kingdoms series. The story outlines the first encounter between the queen of the Tala, Salena, and future High-King, General Uorsin. Although the story has been relayed to readers in a more abstract way throughout the books of the series, this is our first time actually reading a story from either character's POV.
Overall, it's a good tale, albeit very short and to the point. It really only tells the story of one day, and left me longing to read more of the pair's early years, before corruption steals Uorsin's sole. I liked reading the tale from their alternating POVs, and found the background a lovely addition to the series. The story can be enjoyed whether or not you've read the series, with those who haven't read the series getting a small sample of Ms. Jeffe's storytelling. And for those like me, who've read the first three books of the series, able to get a better understanding of why Salena did what she did all those years ago.
Overall, good short story.
My rating: B
Overall, it's a good tale, albeit very short and to the point. It really only tells the story of one day, and left me longing to read more of the pair's early years, before corruption steals Uorsin's sole. I liked reading the tale from their alternating POVs, and found the background a lovely addition to the series. The story can be enjoyed whether or not you've read the series, with those who haven't read the series getting a small sample of Ms. Jeffe's storytelling. And for those like me, who've read the first three books of the series, able to get a better understanding of why Salena did what she did all those years ago.
Overall, good short story.
My rating: B
May 20, 2016
This is a short prequel to one of my favorite fantasy series, The Twelve Kingdoms, and is about the time Salena and Uorsin first meet. The story makes the most impact if you have already read something of this series and are acquainted with this world. It's literally only one scene, and as usual with this author, only left me wanting more-a small window into their lives in not nearly enough!
December 18, 2025
🖤💛 Negotiation Review 💛🖤
Thank you so much to Jeffe Kennedy for the opportunity to read and review this book!
Negotiation is a fantasy novella and a prequel to the Twelve Kingdoms series. Before the events of The Mark of the Tala, General Uorsin has escaped a devastating battle and finds himself alone on a mountain. Shapeshifting sorceress Salena has done everything she can to protect her kingdom and traps Uorsin in the process. Can they negotiate a solution that will impact the rest of their lives and their kingdoms?
This was a really interesting novella! This was a quick introduction to the story behind the king and how he met his future wife. We get to know more about them in the Twelve Kingdoms series so it was interesting to see how they started out
Overall this was a four star read! I enjoyed this little peek into the origin story of the king and queen mentioned so much in the Twelve Kingdoms trilogy. This book did have some references to violence, so check triggers if you’re sensitive. Though this is an introduction into the relationship of these two characters, there was no on page smut and no rating will be given for spice
If you’re a fan of interesting world building, intriguing magic and strong characters, then check out this series. Even though this is a prequel, I’d recommend reading the Twelve Kingdoms trilogy first to get the most out of this novella.
Thank you so much to Jeffe Kennedy for the opportunity to read and review this book!
Negotiation is a fantasy novella and a prequel to the Twelve Kingdoms series. Before the events of The Mark of the Tala, General Uorsin has escaped a devastating battle and finds himself alone on a mountain. Shapeshifting sorceress Salena has done everything she can to protect her kingdom and traps Uorsin in the process. Can they negotiate a solution that will impact the rest of their lives and their kingdoms?
This was a really interesting novella! This was a quick introduction to the story behind the king and how he met his future wife. We get to know more about them in the Twelve Kingdoms series so it was interesting to see how they started out
Overall this was a four star read! I enjoyed this little peek into the origin story of the king and queen mentioned so much in the Twelve Kingdoms trilogy. This book did have some references to violence, so check triggers if you’re sensitive. Though this is an introduction into the relationship of these two characters, there was no on page smut and no rating will be given for spice
If you’re a fan of interesting world building, intriguing magic and strong characters, then check out this series. Even though this is a prequel, I’d recommend reading the Twelve Kingdoms trilogy first to get the most out of this novella.
July 22, 2018
I read this to hopefully get some insight on Selena and the High King before working my way through Ursula's book but unfortunately it didn't reveal anything I didn't already know.
The rest of Selena's plans are just as mysterious as before but at least we know that she knew what she was getting into.
The rest of Selena's plans are just as mysterious as before but at least we know that she knew what she was getting into.
July 1, 2020
It didn't really add any new information or character development.
February 5, 2022
Pretty good and interesting intro into the series. I might be tempted to read more about these 12 Kingdoms.
May 25, 2022
Short Story before the 12 Kingdoms book.
June 10, 2021
Negotiation tells the tale of how a deal is struck between a warlord and a shapeshifting witch that will shape the future of the Twelve Kingdoms. It tells of the sacrifice of a woman willing to do what's necessary for what she believes is the greater good.
Negotiation is the prequel to the Twelve Kingdoms series which tells the stories of the three sisters born to Uorsin and Salena. In this, a wounded Uorsin and a plotting Salena negotiate for the future of their world.
I didn't learn much of Uorsin aside from the fact that he's ambitious with a streak of cruelty to him. There are hints of the man he becomes later on as High King of the Twelve Kingdoms and it does not paint him in a positive light.
As for Salena, I have nothing but respect for her. She's willing to sacrifice everything for the future and in order to protect her kingdom, the fabled Annfwn. It is unfortunate to be weighed down with visions of the future and it's easy to ignore it and take the easy way out. It takes tremendous courage to face what is seen and do what most people wouldn't for a better future one would not see. That's Salena. I admire her bravery and her fortitude.
And now, I'm looking forward to the series and reading about each of the three sisters who are Salena's daughters.
See more from Deanna's World
Negotiation is the prequel to the Twelve Kingdoms series which tells the stories of the three sisters born to Uorsin and Salena. In this, a wounded Uorsin and a plotting Salena negotiate for the future of their world.
I didn't learn much of Uorsin aside from the fact that he's ambitious with a streak of cruelty to him. There are hints of the man he becomes later on as High King of the Twelve Kingdoms and it does not paint him in a positive light.
As for Salena, I have nothing but respect for her. She's willing to sacrifice everything for the future and in order to protect her kingdom, the fabled Annfwn. It is unfortunate to be weighed down with visions of the future and it's easy to ignore it and take the easy way out. It takes tremendous courage to face what is seen and do what most people wouldn't for a better future one would not see. That's Salena. I admire her bravery and her fortitude.
And now, I'm looking forward to the series and reading about each of the three sisters who are Salena's daughters.
See more from Deanna's World
March 1, 2020
A prequel to the Twelve Kingdoms series, intended to be read after the initial trilogy. Selena finds Urosin injured after a battle and offers him the crown of the Twelve kingdoms.
***
03/01/2020. Starting my first reread of the entire series, after having finished “The Fate of the Tala”. Potential spoilers.
I believe this was the only third person story in the series, alternating between Selena and Urosin’s POVs.
I’d forgotten that Salena lost a child before giving birth to her daughters with Urosin. This line was, perhaps, the most heart-wrenching:
“See, Tosin? I’m committing suicide too. At least mine will serve the Tala and Annfwn.“
Salena stalked, threatened, injured, healed, seduced, and finally bargained with Urosin. Of all the futures Salena could see, Urosin’s iron fisted rule of the twelve kingdoms was the best:
“The “peace” Uorsin would bring to the Twelve Kingdoms would be oppressive, but better than slaughter and chaos.”
With her sacrifice, Salena would protect Annfwn, prevent a shattering of the twelve kingdoms, and Urosin’s half-blood would give her three powerful daughters with a far brighter future.
***
03/01/2020. Starting my first reread of the entire series, after having finished “The Fate of the Tala”. Potential spoilers.
I believe this was the only third person story in the series, alternating between Selena and Urosin’s POVs.
I’d forgotten that Salena lost a child before giving birth to her daughters with Urosin. This line was, perhaps, the most heart-wrenching:
“See, Tosin? I’m committing suicide too. At least mine will serve the Tala and Annfwn.“
Salena stalked, threatened, injured, healed, seduced, and finally bargained with Urosin. Of all the futures Salena could see, Urosin’s iron fisted rule of the twelve kingdoms was the best:
“The “peace” Uorsin would bring to the Twelve Kingdoms would be oppressive, but better than slaughter and chaos.”
With her sacrifice, Salena would protect Annfwn, prevent a shattering of the twelve kingdoms, and Urosin’s half-blood would give her three powerful daughters with a far brighter future.
July 9, 2016
This is a great prequel to the Twelve Kingdoms series. You get to see Uorsin and Salena as they first meet. If you have read the series you know a bit about Salena but only through the eyes of her daughters and the little they knew about her. This is one strong woman who goes into an abusive relationship fully knowing how bad her life will be but also knowing her sacrifice will bring three daughters that will save her home. Wow.
You also get to glimpse Uorsin's hunger for power, his rage, and his pure hatred for Salena. Salena goads his temper and he attacks; while she easily defends herself she internally acknowledges she may not see it coming so well in the future. Perhaps a bit of foreshadowing of her murder at the hands of Uorsin?
A great read and more meaningful if you have read the series.
You also get to glimpse Uorsin's hunger for power, his rage, and his pure hatred for Salena. Salena goads his temper and he attacks; while she easily defends herself she internally acknowledges she may not see it coming so well in the future. Perhaps a bit of foreshadowing of her murder at the hands of Uorsin?
A great read and more meaningful if you have read the series.
May 30, 2015
This short story explains it all. Uorsin is touted as a great King who brought the twelve kingdoms together. What I have to say is, "winners are the ones who write his-story". The interaction between Uorsin and Salena is depressingly sad. I admire Salena and find her sacrifice pretty amazing.
Ms. Kennedy does a good job of showing how it all began. Even though this is a prequel, I recommend against reading this one before reading the trilogy. It's much better to read it after the fact and experience the "ah ha" moment. This is a tightly written story which provides good insight into a missing piece. A mother's love knows no boundaries. Recommended for fantasy lovers.
* arc provided for review
Ms. Kennedy does a good job of showing how it all began. Even though this is a prequel, I recommend against reading this one before reading the trilogy. It's much better to read it after the fact and experience the "ah ha" moment. This is a tightly written story which provides good insight into a missing piece. A mother's love knows no boundaries. Recommended for fantasy lovers.
* arc provided for review
May 30, 2015
Enjoyable short story
This short story of the first meeting of the 'High King' and the 'Witch' is a back and forth insight into what each was thinking as well as feeling. So glad I read this after Talon of the Hawk. It helped me understand both characters and what drove them to make the decision to unite.
This short story of the first meeting of the 'High King' and the 'Witch' is a back and forth insight into what each was thinking as well as feeling. So glad I read this after Talon of the Hawk. It helped me understand both characters and what drove them to make the decision to unite.
June 22, 2015
Definitely read before Talon of the Hawk! It's extremely good, and the dialogue is engaging which is Kennedy's strong point. But after reading Talon, you'll look at Uorsin in a very different light which may alter your enjoyment of this novel. Still, it is a nice little tidbit to add lore to the series!
February 6, 2016
4 stars for content, 1 star for value. This very short prequel gave a nice view of the parents from their own points of view and fleshed out incidents that were hinted at in the first book. Charging even 99 cents for 30 pages is just a rip off though. This should be a freebie for her fans on the author's website.
March 12, 2016
After years of swirling visions of the future, the time has come for Salena to approach a wounded general with a daring proposition.
While a prequel, this definitely works better if you have the read the trilogy. It helps shed light on what Salena was thinking when she made her deal with the devil.
While a prequel, this definitely works better if you have the read the trilogy. It helps shed light on what Salena was thinking when she made her deal with the devil.
June 6, 2016
I enjoyed this short story that gave us a look at the world of the Tala and the Twelve Kingdoms. Reading this made me really excited to finally get a chance to read the full length novels in this series.
October 5, 2016
Oooh, we get a glimpse of Salena as she makes the deal that changes their world forever.
This is a quick read that gives insight into Salena's motivations to marry King Uorsin, General Uorsin at the time.
What would you do if in her place?
This is a quick read that gives insight into Salena's motivations to marry King Uorsin, General Uorsin at the time.
What would you do if in her place?
November 18, 2019
3,5 star
March 23, 2017
This is a prequel that should have been a prologue. It is well written and I would have rated it higher if I considered it its own book/short story.
February 19, 2023
Selena & Uorsin at first meeting.
Focuses on her knowledge of what is to come and the agreement they strike.
Focuses on her knowledge of what is to come and the agreement they strike.
June 10, 2015
A must read for any fan of the Twelve Kingdoms.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews