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Blood of Kings: Legends #7
Guardian of Hope
She needed a fresh start. He needed a second chance. But the past isn't finished with either of them.
Grendolyn Hoff returned to Sitna with a baby on her hip and a build a life for her daughter, alone, on her own terms. She doesn't need anyone. She especially doesn't need the reformed troublemaker who spent years trying to be worthy of her love while she spent years making sure he knew he had no place in her life.
But her late husband Riga's secrets have a way of surfacing. And when those secrets point straight to a conspiracy threatening the throne itself, the people behind it don't care that she had no part in it.
Harnu Poe isn't standing aside while danger circles Gren and her daughter. Even if it means facing everything from the past he fought so hard to leave behind.
The conspiracy won't stop until they're both silenced. And when they stand together against the shadows, Gren will have to face the truth she's been running she can't lose him.
But can she let her wounded heart trust him before it's too late?
A stand-alone, faith-forward romantasy set in Jill Williamson's beloved Er'Rets — for readers who love slow-burn second-chance romance, protective heroes who keep showing up, and a faith that pursues even the most wounded hearts.
READERS WILL LOVE…
• A reformed troublemaker hero who spent years becoming worthy of the woman who won't let him in.
• A single mother heroine carrying her late husband's secrets — and the weight of a conspiracy she never chose.
• Slow-burn second-chance he's been waiting. She keeps saying no. The danger stops asking.
• Forced proximity through shared danger, a conspiracy that threatens the throne, and a faith arc that runs deep.
• A God who never stopped pursuing them both — even through grief, past mistakes, and a heart that forgot how to trust.
• Clean fantasy romance. Big stakes. No spice. A love that's waited long enough.
Grendolyn Hoff returned to Sitna with a baby on her hip and a build a life for her daughter, alone, on her own terms. She doesn't need anyone. She especially doesn't need the reformed troublemaker who spent years trying to be worthy of her love while she spent years making sure he knew he had no place in her life.
But her late husband Riga's secrets have a way of surfacing. And when those secrets point straight to a conspiracy threatening the throne itself, the people behind it don't care that she had no part in it.
Harnu Poe isn't standing aside while danger circles Gren and her daughter. Even if it means facing everything from the past he fought so hard to leave behind.
The conspiracy won't stop until they're both silenced. And when they stand together against the shadows, Gren will have to face the truth she's been running she can't lose him.
But can she let her wounded heart trust him before it's too late?
A stand-alone, faith-forward romantasy set in Jill Williamson's beloved Er'Rets — for readers who love slow-burn second-chance romance, protective heroes who keep showing up, and a faith that pursues even the most wounded hearts.
READERS WILL LOVE…
• A reformed troublemaker hero who spent years becoming worthy of the woman who won't let him in.
• A single mother heroine carrying her late husband's secrets — and the weight of a conspiracy she never chose.
• Slow-burn second-chance he's been waiting. She keeps saying no. The danger stops asking.
• Forced proximity through shared danger, a conspiracy that threatens the throne, and a faith arc that runs deep.
• A God who never stopped pursuing them both — even through grief, past mistakes, and a heart that forgot how to trust.
• Clean fantasy romance. Big stakes. No spice. A love that's waited long enough.
- GenresChristian Fantasy
349 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 3, 2026
About the author
Megan Gerig
5 books74 followersMegan is a lover of tea obsessed with autumn days in her Spare Oom with a book in her lap. When she's not chasing her wildlings around the house, she's dreaming about stories of mystery and magic. Megan and her family live on a mini-farm in the country where they live out their homesteading dreams. Readers can connect with her on Substack and on Instagram @megangerigauthor.
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I love reading these books in the Blood of Kings: Legends series.
Each one has so much packed into it. Each one is a little different, but also connected in many ways.
In this book, we find characters from past books. At first, I didn’t know their backstory, but this author had a wonderful way of weaving in how they connected and helped the reader be drawn into their story.
This story had two people struggling to keep the darkness away and truth to be seen. To protect those who couldn’t protect themselves. To bring hope to all, in a town controlled by evil people masquerading as good people. Evil forces are against them, but can the two find support in each other before it’s too late?
The series has taken me to a whole new world, and I don’t want to leave!
Jill Williamson is a fantastic, creative writer. Her characters come alive with passion and boldness. She also introduces us to Megan Gerig, who adds her flair to this wonderful story.
Throughout the book are wonderful nuggets of Godly truth woven so smoothly and powerfully.
I truly enjoyed this book!
It is a kind of book that held me and wouldn’t let me go. As I read, I found myself wanting to keep reading. From the cover to the last page, the book is packed with colorful images and engaging dialogue.
If you want to get lost in a magical world that will make your heart pound and you find it hard to breathe, then this is the book for you. I must warn you, once you start, you might not want to put it down until you finish the whole book!
I highly recommend you pick this book up!
I was given this book by the publisher, which did not influence my review in any way; all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Each one has so much packed into it. Each one is a little different, but also connected in many ways.
In this book, we find characters from past books. At first, I didn’t know their backstory, but this author had a wonderful way of weaving in how they connected and helped the reader be drawn into their story.
This story had two people struggling to keep the darkness away and truth to be seen. To protect those who couldn’t protect themselves. To bring hope to all, in a town controlled by evil people masquerading as good people. Evil forces are against them, but can the two find support in each other before it’s too late?
The series has taken me to a whole new world, and I don’t want to leave!
Jill Williamson is a fantastic, creative writer. Her characters come alive with passion and boldness. She also introduces us to Megan Gerig, who adds her flair to this wonderful story.
Throughout the book are wonderful nuggets of Godly truth woven so smoothly and powerfully.
I truly enjoyed this book!
It is a kind of book that held me and wouldn’t let me go. As I read, I found myself wanting to keep reading. From the cover to the last page, the book is packed with colorful images and engaging dialogue.
If you want to get lost in a magical world that will make your heart pound and you find it hard to breathe, then this is the book for you. I must warn you, once you start, you might not want to put it down until you finish the whole book!
I highly recommend you pick this book up!
I was given this book by the publisher, which did not influence my review in any way; all thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 21, 2026
Folks, I read this one cover-to-cover because I didn't want to pull away from this delightful story for more than a moment! This tale of Harnu and Gren is saturated with sweet moments and second chances—not only for learning to forgive and trust others, but for one's own self as well, to overcome past hurts and prejudices and step into a new beginning. The truths woven throughout the telling are powerful themes of faith, hope, and love unconditional.
These two characters were so much fun to read! Gren's resolve to unveil the mystery of her late husband's covert dealings and Harnu's compulsion to guard her in the process made for some great back and forth between darling interactions and tension as they wrestle with their own feelings, strongholds, and unworthiness. But dear, sweet Aletta has no compunctions about treating Harnu like the best man in her life, and that dungeon scene was an absolute chef's kiss. Muy bien.
The unfolding of the plot is so much like a mystery novel, too, which always boggles my mind how all these scattered threads come together by the end. But I ate it up with delight and wonder and excitement as one question answered led to three new more dire than the last, the danger mounted, the stakes skyrocketed, and the action kept the pace careening toward the end in a thrill most satisfying.
I loved it.
*Honest thoughts if a (privileged) ARC reader.
These two characters were so much fun to read! Gren's resolve to unveil the mystery of her late husband's covert dealings and Harnu's compulsion to guard her in the process made for some great back and forth between darling interactions and tension as they wrestle with their own feelings, strongholds, and unworthiness. But dear, sweet Aletta has no compunctions about treating Harnu like the best man in her life, and that dungeon scene was an absolute chef's kiss. Muy bien.
The unfolding of the plot is so much like a mystery novel, too, which always boggles my mind how all these scattered threads come together by the end. But I ate it up with delight and wonder and excitement as one question answered led to three new more dire than the last, the danger mounted, the stakes skyrocketed, and the action kept the pace careening toward the end in a thrill most satisfying.
I loved it.
*Honest thoughts if a (privileged) ARC reader.
October 24, 2026
Loved this! Plot twists, a redemption arc, healing from brokenness, and a sweet happy ending made this a wonderful read!
~~ I received an early copy of this book from the publisher and was not required to leave a positive review.~~
~~ I received an early copy of this book from the publisher and was not required to leave a positive review.~~
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Second chance fantasy romance at its finest!
I really loved this book because it had two great main characters who struggled with trusting each other and Arman (the God character) and a heart pounding plot. I really felt for both characters as they struggled with trying to figure out why they were being targeted. Then, they added in a baby and it made it even more intense! The romance between the two characters was very sweet and well developed, and it was gradual enough to be believable. Finally, the faith element was one that is all too relatable, and I felt encouraged and convicted as I read. I highly recommend this book.
Content Warnings: PG-13 combat violence. Mind control makes good people do bad things. Accusation of infidelity. Romantic longing that ends with a lightly described kiss. Dark magic. Portrayal of corrupt clergy in contrast to good ones. No cussing. One person is poisoned. Hints at physical abuse.
I really loved this book because it had two great main characters who struggled with trusting each other and Arman (the God character) and a heart pounding plot. I really felt for both characters as they struggled with trying to figure out why they were being targeted. Then, they added in a baby and it made it even more intense! The romance between the two characters was very sweet and well developed, and it was gradual enough to be believable. Finally, the faith element was one that is all too relatable, and I felt encouraged and convicted as I read. I highly recommend this book.
Content Warnings: PG-13 combat violence. Mind control makes good people do bad things. Accusation of infidelity. Romantic longing that ends with a lightly described kiss. Dark magic. Portrayal of corrupt clergy in contrast to good ones. No cussing. One person is poisoned. Hints at physical abuse.
October 11, 2026
Wow. This book really took me through an emotional wringer! I’m all about the suspense, but my momma heart had to take some pauses to lower my heart rate when a darling baby was in danger.
I really enjoyed this no spice Christian romantic fantasy. This series is full of books set in the same realm, with references to some past characters and events, but they also work, in part, as standalones on the romantic angle. For the original trilogy, the goal was the banishment of darkness. However, for this spinoff series, I am not entirely sure what the end game is.
This book brought us way back to the original trilogy in remembrance and we saw repercussions and remorse, repentance, forgiveness, family, new starts, and so much more. Danger swirls with dark magic, secrets, betrayals, and more. This single mother, fake relationship romance had protection and tender moments and a darling baby. I’m looking forward to the next book. The romance is just kisses, intimacy level 2.
Content Notes (may include spoilers): Domestic Violence, Injuries, Blood, Attempted Murder, Murder, Loss of Parent, Child in Danger
I received an eARC of this book from the publisher and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I really enjoyed this no spice Christian romantic fantasy. This series is full of books set in the same realm, with references to some past characters and events, but they also work, in part, as standalones on the romantic angle. For the original trilogy, the goal was the banishment of darkness. However, for this spinoff series, I am not entirely sure what the end game is.
This book brought us way back to the original trilogy in remembrance and we saw repercussions and remorse, repentance, forgiveness, family, new starts, and so much more. Danger swirls with dark magic, secrets, betrayals, and more. This single mother, fake relationship romance had protection and tender moments and a darling baby. I’m looking forward to the next book. The romance is just kisses, intimacy level 2.
Content Notes (may include spoilers): Domestic Violence, Injuries, Blood, Attempted Murder, Murder, Loss of Parent, Child in Danger
I received an eARC of this book from the publisher and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
After losing her husband, Gren just wants to start over with her daughter. She discovers that her husband was keeping secrets and now she is caught in the middle of a nefarious plot. Can she solve the mystery of what her late husband was up to before it’s too late or will she once again lose everything?
Harnu is trying to prove to everyone, including himself, that he is a changed man. While caring for his father, whose mental state is declining and trying to help the woman he’s in love with solves the mystery her late husband and his best friends left behind, can Harnu embrace forgiveness from his past or will he let the shame shut him off from everyone including Arman?
There is a lot of depth to these characters and their journey to forgiveness and healing. I enjoyed watching the characters grow throughout the story. However, at a point in the story it felt like the character development overtook the plot and then we jumped back into solving the mystery. The pacing of the story was a bit off for me which is why I only gave it 3.75 stars along with the fact that the story felt a bit predictable for me.
The journey that the characters took with forgiveness and trusting God even though it seems he is never on their side was relatable. Seeing the characters embrace forgiveness and the love from an ever present God who has not forsaken them was worth the read. I can’t wait to see what’s next in the Blood of Kings: Legends series.
Harnu is trying to prove to everyone, including himself, that he is a changed man. While caring for his father, whose mental state is declining and trying to help the woman he’s in love with solves the mystery her late husband and his best friends left behind, can Harnu embrace forgiveness from his past or will he let the shame shut him off from everyone including Arman?
There is a lot of depth to these characters and their journey to forgiveness and healing. I enjoyed watching the characters grow throughout the story. However, at a point in the story it felt like the character development overtook the plot and then we jumped back into solving the mystery. The pacing of the story was a bit off for me which is why I only gave it 3.75 stars along with the fact that the story felt a bit predictable for me.
The journey that the characters took with forgiveness and trusting God even though it seems he is never on their side was relatable. Seeing the characters embrace forgiveness and the love from an ever present God who has not forsaken them was worth the read. I can’t wait to see what’s next in the Blood of Kings: Legends series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Guardian of Hope by Megan Gerig
Harnu Poe isn't standing aside while danger circles Gren and her daughter. Even if it means facing everything from the past he fought so hard to leave behind...
A Christian fantasy with strong medieval elements. This series is pretty unique in that each book is written by a different author, but it's all the same world and the same characters. I've only read one book in this world before so I was a bit familar with some of the named characters but hadn't read any of their stories. As such I feel like I would have liked to get to know my main characters a bit better, but I mean that was probably done in a previous book so my own fault for reading as a standalone. The mystery aspect was my favorite part. I also enjoyed having a baby as a character. Second-chance romance doesn't usually work for me, but it did here (maybe because I didn't really see that first-chance aspect). Overall, it did feel a bit more historical than fantasy, so I would recommend it if that's a vibe you're looking for.
Genre: Christian fantasy
4 stars
Book 7 in Blood of Kings: Legends
ARC (will be published Nov 3, all opinions are my own)
Harnu Poe isn't standing aside while danger circles Gren and her daughter. Even if it means facing everything from the past he fought so hard to leave behind...
A Christian fantasy with strong medieval elements. This series is pretty unique in that each book is written by a different author, but it's all the same world and the same characters. I've only read one book in this world before so I was a bit familar with some of the named characters but hadn't read any of their stories. As such I feel like I would have liked to get to know my main characters a bit better, but I mean that was probably done in a previous book so my own fault for reading as a standalone. The mystery aspect was my favorite part. I also enjoyed having a baby as a character. Second-chance romance doesn't usually work for me, but it did here (maybe because I didn't really see that first-chance aspect). Overall, it did feel a bit more historical than fantasy, so I would recommend it if that's a vibe you're looking for.
Genre: Christian fantasy
4 stars
Book 7 in Blood of Kings: Legends
ARC (will be published Nov 3, all opinions are my own)
October 27, 2026
Guardian of Hope is another heart-wrenching installment in the Blood of Kings: Legends series with thrilling stakes, fierce love, and powerful themes of forgiveness.
Grendolyn was never a favorite character of mine (I love Achan and Vrell’s pairing too much), but I always thought she deserved better than where we left her at the end of From Darkness Won. I adore that Megan has given Gren (and Harnu!) a better future through this book.
My favorite aspect of this story is that it centers around a new mom. As much as I enjoyed the second chance love romance between Gren and Harnu, the heart of this book lies in Gren’s love for her daughter. Her fierce protectiveness and loyalty to Aletta is admirable, and I’m grateful that Gren can be a strong female character while also being a mother.
Some parts of the romance moved a little quickly, especially since I couldn’t remember how the characters felt toward each other during the original trilogy. I also don’t prefer romance-heavy novels, so there were some romance-y elements that bothered me (like the internal questions that are just a little cringe or when the characters constantly think about they can't be good enough for the other). But overall, this story falls along the same lines as the rest of the Legends books with action, excitement, and a sweet, no spice romance.
I'd recommend this to fans of the previous books in this series or anybody looking for a no spice, Christian-based fantasy.
~I received an early digital copy from the publisher in exchange for a review. All opinions are my own.~
Grendolyn was never a favorite character of mine (I love Achan and Vrell’s pairing too much), but I always thought she deserved better than where we left her at the end of From Darkness Won. I adore that Megan has given Gren (and Harnu!) a better future through this book.
My favorite aspect of this story is that it centers around a new mom. As much as I enjoyed the second chance love romance between Gren and Harnu, the heart of this book lies in Gren’s love for her daughter. Her fierce protectiveness and loyalty to Aletta is admirable, and I’m grateful that Gren can be a strong female character while also being a mother.
Some parts of the romance moved a little quickly, especially since I couldn’t remember how the characters felt toward each other during the original trilogy. I also don’t prefer romance-heavy novels, so there were some romance-y elements that bothered me (like the internal questions that are just a little cringe or when the characters constantly think about they can't be good enough for the other). But overall, this story falls along the same lines as the rest of the Legends books with action, excitement, and a sweet, no spice romance.
I'd recommend this to fans of the previous books in this series or anybody looking for a no spice, Christian-based fantasy.
~I received an early digital copy from the publisher in exchange for a review. All opinions are my own.~
November 3, 2026
This one really pulled on my heart. And brought back some fond memories of first discovering Er’Rets.
Gren was childhood friends—kind of—with Achan (now king), Riga, and Harnu. She loved the future king, Harnu loved her…
…but she ended up married to Riga. A horrible man. After years with him he was killed, leaving her with a baby to care for and no real support.
Except Harnu. Self appointed guardian of her and the babe, he longs for her to see he’s changed. He’s full of regret from his years of bullying and hurting people just because.
Now Riga’s father wants something his son took from him before his death and he’ll stop at nothing to get it back. Trouble is, Gren has no idea what it is or where it could be.
With her life and her daughter’s life in danger she’s desperate to find what was taken. Talk about danger around every corner! I don’t think I could have survived everything Gren was put through!
I loved every minute I spent in these pages. Intrigue, danger, twists and turns galore, and wonderful characters await readers in this story. I loved it so much I might read it again—soon!
I received an advance copy from the publisher. I’m under no obligation and my review has not been solicited. Very highly recommend! (Really wishing for infinite stars again 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Gren was childhood friends—kind of—with Achan (now king), Riga, and Harnu. She loved the future king, Harnu loved her…
…but she ended up married to Riga. A horrible man. After years with him he was killed, leaving her with a baby to care for and no real support.
Except Harnu. Self appointed guardian of her and the babe, he longs for her to see he’s changed. He’s full of regret from his years of bullying and hurting people just because.
Now Riga’s father wants something his son took from him before his death and he’ll stop at nothing to get it back. Trouble is, Gren has no idea what it is or where it could be.
With her life and her daughter’s life in danger she’s desperate to find what was taken. Talk about danger around every corner! I don’t think I could have survived everything Gren was put through!
I loved every minute I spent in these pages. Intrigue, danger, twists and turns galore, and wonderful characters await readers in this story. I loved it so much I might read it again—soon!
I received an advance copy from the publisher. I’m under no obligation and my review has not been solicited. Very highly recommend! (Really wishing for infinite stars again 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
OH!MY!WORD! Williamson and Gerig have crafted an exquisite masterpiece! I was immediately immersed into the drama. Twists and turns kept me turning the pages. Deep spiritual truths are woven throughout this novel. These characters will linger long after turning the final page. This novel is hard to put down. I look forward to reading the final installment in this series.
Recommend to readers who enjoy Christian fantasy.
DISCLAIMER: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher. I was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Recommend to readers who enjoy Christian fantasy.
DISCLAIMER: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher. I was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
November 3, 2026
Guardian of Hope is the long-awaited continuation of Grendolyn Hoff's story and that of Harnu Poe. I enjoyed the story behind both Gren and Harnu's past behavior, making them both more likeable and relatable. The thread of redemption is wound throughout Guardian of Hope as well as themes like forgiveness, acceptance, and contentment. While it doesn't pack the same emotional punch as some of the previous Blood of Kings: Legends stories, this book tells a much-anticipated point of view and adds a new layer to the original Blood of Kings trilogy. I especially enjoyed watching the hero arc of Harnu Poe and some surprising twists from where Gren's story had left off.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
As soon as I started Guardian of Hope, I was hooked from beginning to end. Gren and Harnu's story has a conspiracy, danger, faith, an unrequited love, slow burn romance, and trying to uncover Gren's dead husband's secret. This well-written medieval romantasy story has a fast-paced, engaging plot was fast-paced, and I kept turning the pages as quickly as I could.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 17, 2026
The struggle is real. Gren’s struggle to provide for her daughter, Harnu’s struggle with his father. The desperation that brought them together, finally. Poor Harnu’s unrequited love for Gren for so long. It was interesting seeing them come together and how Harnu eventually wore Gren down enough to see he was sincere. Poor Gren wanted a friend, only to be betrayed. What can I say, life’s not fair. Seeing Harnu and Gren come together at the end, warmed my poor little heart.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This is a fantasy romance with a bit of mystery. I enjoyed it, though the characters did not particularly stand out to me. It was well written and had excellent spiritual themes, such as letting go of control and learning to trust. The ending was a bit confusing and there were definitely some loose ends left, so we will have to see if they will be resolved in another installment. If you liked the other books in this series, you will most likely enjoy this one as well.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Advanced Reader Review:
I love how two characters from the original story finally get their time in the Light. I thought Megan did a great job with the writing and the storyline. I never thought I would fall in love with Gren and Harnu, but seeing that there is Power for anyone to change is beautiful. Highly recommend this book.
I love how two characters from the original story finally get their time in the Light. I thought Megan did a great job with the writing and the storyline. I never thought I would fall in love with Gren and Harnu, but seeing that there is Power for anyone to change is beautiful. Highly recommend this book.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Guardian of Hope is a fast paced, intriguing fantasy novel. The authors did a good job catching up new readers with the story world and characters. I enjoyed the heartwarming story of Harnu’s steady love and care for Gren. Their individual journeys from darkness to light were well written. Great read to the satisfying end!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This book had me hooked from the beginning. A blacksmith hero pining for a woman who is now a widowed mother? Yes please! I also loved that there were so many possibilities for the villain that I couldn't figure it out.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
What I loved:
The relationships in this story were great. Harnu's support of his dad, and Lady Marah's friendship with Gren were some of my favorite scenes to read. Harnu's devotion to Gren is the absolute sweetest. I loved that he looked out for her and was thoughtful of the baby in little ways as well. I'm not going to lie, I totally swooned when I read "Until the last flame in my forge dies." And anyone who has ever had to change a baby on the floor of a gas station will definitely relate to Harnu's first attempt at changing a diaper. I very much enjoyed that scene!
Gren's determination to provide for herself and Alletta, and to stand up for Harnu and his dad when she hadn't fully decided to trust him were some of my favorite character moments for her. I think any young mom or caretaker will be able to relate to her struggles, particularly the tension between meeting the immediate needs of her baby and doing what she felt was necessary to protect her baby long term.
What did not work for me:
There were several situations that felt contrived to me (Gren's family being Arman-followers, an escape on a horse, a betrayal that didn't make sense). It felt at times like the characters were moving along from scene to scene without a clear reason for their actions other than the plot demanded it. Some of the characters' actions ignored things that had been previously set up only one or two scenes before.
I think there could have been more of a bridge from where Harnu and Gren left off at the end of From Darkness Won to where we start at the beginning of this book. It didn't make sense at that point for Gren to continue holding a grudge and keep him at arms' length and their transition from that to her being in love with him felt rather abrupt.
Overall, while I think this book could have benefitted from a little more editing, I did enjoy the story and seeing Gren and Harnu's relationship come into being, and I do look forward to reading Ms. Gerig's work again.
I received an early copy of this book for the purpose of reviewing. All opinions are my own.
The relationships in this story were great. Harnu's support of his dad, and Lady Marah's friendship with Gren were some of my favorite scenes to read. Harnu's devotion to Gren is the absolute sweetest. I loved that he looked out for her and was thoughtful of the baby in little ways as well. I'm not going to lie, I totally swooned when I read "Until the last flame in my forge dies." And anyone who has ever had to change a baby on the floor of a gas station will definitely relate to Harnu's first attempt at changing a diaper. I very much enjoyed that scene!
Gren's determination to provide for herself and Alletta, and to stand up for Harnu and his dad when she hadn't fully decided to trust him were some of my favorite character moments for her. I think any young mom or caretaker will be able to relate to her struggles, particularly the tension between meeting the immediate needs of her baby and doing what she felt was necessary to protect her baby long term.
What did not work for me:
There were several situations that felt contrived to me (Gren's family being Arman-followers, an escape on a horse, a betrayal that didn't make sense). It felt at times like the characters were moving along from scene to scene without a clear reason for their actions other than the plot demanded it. Some of the characters' actions ignored things that had been previously set up only one or two scenes before.
I think there could have been more of a bridge from where Harnu and Gren left off at the end of From Darkness Won to where we start at the beginning of this book. It didn't make sense at that point for Gren to continue holding a grudge and keep him at arms' length and their transition from that to her being in love with him felt rather abrupt.
Overall, while I think this book could have benefitted from a little more editing, I did enjoy the story and seeing Gren and Harnu's relationship come into being, and I do look forward to reading Ms. Gerig's work again.
I received an early copy of this book for the purpose of reviewing. All opinions are my own.
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