Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Crown of Blood #1

Rebel's Honor

Rate this book
This is an alternate cover edition for B0167088AK

Princess and warrior, Lynx of Norin is forced by treaty to marry Crown Prince Lukan Avanov. But Lukan is her conqueror, born and raised to lord over her. She, his conquered, was born and raised to hate him.

Lynx is determined to fulfill a long-told curse to destroy Lukan and his empire. It's the only way she can save her people, and perhaps herself from him and the Dragon that defends him.

A story of curses and prophecy, Rebel's Honor is an intrigue-filled adventure set in the world of the past that echoes the future.

439 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 20, 2015

191 people are currently reading
692 people want to read

About the author

Gwynn White

21 books246 followers
USA Today, New York Times and Wall Street Journal bestselling author of science fiction and fantasy novels set on distant planets.

All Gwynn White's stories have an adventure at the heart mixed with a liberal sprinkling of romance and intrigue. To confuse things, she also write adventure travel books set firmly on planet Earth.

She lives in Western Australia with her husband, Andrew, my three daughters, a yapping Toy Pomeranian, and a fantastic farm cat called Pixel. When she's not writing, she's reading, traveling, herding kids around, taking dogs for walks, and avoiding all cooking.

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
135 (37%)
4 stars
115 (31%)
3 stars
75 (20%)
2 stars
28 (7%)
1 star
11 (3%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
Profile Image for Minni Mouse.
886 reviews1,086 followers
March 5, 2017
2.5 stars and DNF at 77%. This book reads like a debut novel from an author who's starting to get her feet wet with fantasy writing. The plot itself contains enough trope favorites -- two warring kingdoms, an arranged marriage to solidify peace, a fiery fierce princess and a spoiled prince, rebellions and uprising -- that it had potential to be delightfully entertaining like The Key or Nemesis or any other light fantasy with arranged marriages between two conflicting kingdoms.

THE GOOD
1) The potential! Lynx could have been a fierce character as the oldest princess and leader of her father's band of raiders. Plop her in the middle of her enemy's territory and throw in some secrets and magic and a love triangle...and sure, why wouldn't it be entertaining?

2) The flirty chemistry between Lynx and Axel was delightful.

THE BAD
The writing and particularly the dialogue reminded me too much of that found in fan fiction. It gives in too readily to the low-hanging, obvious young adult tropes such as the flirting, tension between family, love triangles, predictable revolution storylines, and the good ol' prophecy trope.

THE VERDICT
Eh. The beginning was great! It started with compelling action and a bloody raid...then became something silly with an obnoxiously naive younger sister, insta-triangles of lurve and lust, and unconvincing Big Bads.

This would be an addicting read for younger readers in their early teens; less so for anybody who's read enough better-written light fantasy.
Profile Image for angela .
785 reviews161 followers
December 9, 2017
Superb

What a superb story, I was so disappointed when it ended. Only good part is there is another book. This is a tale of great power, a legend of a curse that will bring this great power down, unexpected love, honor, great secrets, sacrifice, murder all rolled into making one extremely great book. I loved this book it keeps you enthralled, there are many surprises which I love. I'm VERY curious what will come next. Lynx is a very strong, and definitely not malleable. Lynx and Axel are m favorite characters, strong, smart, quick witted, fun characters. There are definitely those characters you love to hate also. There are wars going on with the greedy great power, wanting more power and a substance they need for their secret weapon. Definitely worth the read. I'd recommend this to anyone who likes to read. I'd love to say more but try hard not to spoil the book.... make yourself a nice cup of something warm to drink, clear a nice chunk of time, grab a nice throw, get comfy and enjoy the book.
Profile Image for Celestine.
952 reviews132 followers
Read
January 14, 2017
DNF at 42%. Straddles the line at mature young adult, which is the only reason this is a DNF for me. Simply not my favorite genre, despite the well developed characters and interesting world-building that blends a post-apocalyptic / dystopian environment with steampunk. Maybe future books lurch into more mature relationships, but this promises to be a 6-book series where the endings of books are unresolved. I'm just not that patient. I get the sense this book/series could be a gem, but it just isn't for me.
Profile Image for Cari Hislop.
Author 10 books17 followers
November 4, 2015
Set in a post apocalyptic world - peace was brokered on the condition of destruction of all higher technology. For four hundred years the vast majority of the planet have known nothing beyond steam engines, but not everyone kept their word. Ruling the Chenayan empire, the Avanov family have retained the former technology and built on it, using it (along with fear and intimidation) to control the people and crush opposition, but Fate is about to call time. As the Avanovs know too well (thanks to a long dead seer who predicted their demise) one can control almost an entire planet yet a few determined individuals can set in motion unstoppable change that will destroy the status quo.

This is a brilliant complex Fantasy with all sorts of stuff going on under the surface. I love how the story is told from three different perspectives; Lynx the Norin Princess chosen against her will by the Emperor to marry the Crown Prince, Axel Avinov, a talented general who is also the Emperor's nephew (who falls in love with Lynx) and Lukan the Crown Prince (who has desired Lynx since she attended court with her father). All three characters are trying to remain alive and serve their end goals (which are all different). For me the heart of the story is about how the smallest choices we make (often when we're emotional) can have large soul-world destroying consequences. The story is about Fate weaving us (often against our will) into the tapestry of life. Lukan is my favorite character - like many Princes born to heartless tyrants he has had a hellish childhood and he's doing his best to stay alive (and retain his self-esteem). He has dreams and goals. He has good intentions. Misunderstood and often overlooked (even when he's not hiding in his library) Fate arrives as an unwanted bride who hates him and everything he stands for.
Profile Image for Anika.
159 reviews6 followers
September 1, 2017
It was an interesting read, well written - no clangers to drag me out of the story but there was a bit too much going on for my liking. I get this is the first book in the series but I felt a bit overwhelmed at times. It also didn't help that I didn't like the characters I was supposed to like and was more interested in the characters I wasn't supposed to like.

I am starting to wonder if Lynx isn't something of a Mary Sue. An awesome (spoilt) Warrior Princess, who seems to be able to wrap everyone round her little finger. Is forced into a marriage she doesn't want, so on the way to the wedding manages to fall in love with her future husband's cousin. Who just happens to be the most awesome General in the kingdom (and the guy who should be the heir to the thrown the book heavily hints). The crown prince is a spineless weakling who makes her feel cold, so there is conveniently a prophecy about the destruction of the kingdom. And wouldn't you know it she and the crown prince have staring roles.

Unfortunately the author did a really good job of making me feel sorry for the Crown Prince. I don't know about you but if I got told the woman I was due to marry would give birth to the man who would kill me and destroy my kingdom, I'd become a little unsettled. Add to that the Crown Prince's uncle is trying to get the kingdom for his son by causing his brother and nephew to hear voices and descend into madness. It seems like the odds were stacked against the Crown Prince from the start and no matter what he did, he would always end up as the villian of the peace.

The rest of the series looks like it is all about the fulfillment of the prophecy, and I don't think there will be any deviation. I can imagine what's going to happen so I think I'll bail now. Not really interested in all the politicking and bloodshed that will come between now and the end of the prophecy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Becca Andre.
Author 29 books242 followers
April 3, 2016
If I were permitted only one descriptor for this book, I would call it a page-turner. I seriously could not put this one down.

The setting is unique and makes it hard to lock this story into a particular genre. The book reads like an epic fantasy with its evil empire and court intrigue, yet the civilization is steam-powered with a secretive advanced technology. Then there are the nomadic people that add an African flavor. The opening action sequence portraying an ostrich hunt was great.

The characters are well-developed, and the multiple points-of-view keep the reader from being too quick to judge. Just when I thought I had a character figured out, Gwynn showed me the world through his eyes and I begin to wonder if he was truly evil or just misunderstood. I’m not normally a fan switching point-of-view so often, but in this case, it does work to heighten the intrigue. And this story is packed with intrigue.

If I had one criticism, it would be that I occasionally got lost in all the intrigue, and was a little fuzzy on some of the character’s motivations. But the fault might have been mine because I was reading so darn fast. I probably missed a few things. As I said, this book was a page-turner and I HAD to see how it ended.

To sum up, I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this. Yes, it ends on a cliffhanger, but with book 2 already available, I have no problem with that. I recommend it!
Profile Image for Noxwitchbooklife.
864 reviews12 followers
January 3, 2017
An interesting beginning to the Crown of Blood series.
Brain-washing and apocalyptic aftermath. Technology destroyed the world and they vowed to destroy any advancements made toward regaining the technology that decimated the population.
Some romance and adult scenes but it doesn't detract from the story.
The main character Lynx comes from a warrior tribe and she has to learn to be a lady when she is chosen as part of the treaty between her tribes and her overlord king to become the next empress.
She struggles and it provides a nice bit of humour to the story as well as a strong female character who is just as ballsy as the men.
Plenty of twists and turns and rivalry make this an easy read and I look forward to reading the rest of the series.
Profile Image for Crystal.
1,255 reviews8 followers
May 21, 2016
This was my first book by Gwynn White and I couldn't put it down. I stayed up all night just to finish it and can't wait to read the rest of the series to find out what happens next. I just adore Lynx and her spunky feisty persona.
Profile Image for Aviar Savijon.
1,220 reviews20 followers
January 6, 2016
Rebel's Honor

A grand fantasy realm epic begins in this book. As you get taken along for this wonderful tale of empires, lands, wars and betrayal.
Profile Image for Bill Tillman.
1,672 reviews82 followers
April 25, 2016
Fantastic intro book, love the variety of chacter & plots in a deeply tangled royal court. At heart is a 400 year old prophecy of doom coming at the hand of Nickolous the Light Bearer.
Profile Image for Sandy Morley.
402 reviews7 followers
June 18, 2017
It takes less than a few pages for Gwynn to unleash a wholly realised world. I knew I was in for something special straight away, and rebel's honor went above and beyond. Fantastic.
Profile Image for Katherine.
24 reviews
December 19, 2016
Dynamite

This story was excellent! It had intrigue, action, romance.... everything a good book needs. Can't wait for the next one.
Profile Image for Lene Blackthorn .
1,827 reviews7 followers
May 31, 2017
A captivating dystopian tale with scent of magic and adventure.
Lynx, a Norin princess and heir to its throne, is oath-bound to marry the crown prince of Chenaya, Lukan. Not only she hates everything Chenayan as the conquering nation, she despises her future husband as well. The company of her sister Kestrel is no comfort. For Norin, honor is the most valued virtue and Lynx cannot imagine breaking one, no matter how much she wants to. But travelling to the heart of the empire opens her eyes and causes Lynx many surprises. Not only in technology and devices Chenaya possesses, but also in political machinery and surprising friendships...even love. However, Lynx's life is in constant danger and she can't be sure who is an ally and who is enemy.
I am totally intrigued by this story. Great plot, fast pace, intricate storylines, outstanding characters. I absolutely loved the detailed world building and the realistic, complex personalities of the main characters. Lynx is a strong heroine, passionate and wild, just and fierce, changing under the pressure of circumstances. Lukan is full of conflicts, gentle and misunderstood on one side, but vengeful and full of self-loathing on the other side. I fell for Axel immediately, despite his arrogance and plotting, but his heart and sacrifices won me over. And I absolutely adored Tao and Malika. Their contribution to the story addicted me more to this world.
This story was action packed, adventurous, full of tension and drama, and very emotional. I loved it very much and by the time I am writing this review, I am already reading book 2. Great read, fully recommended!
Profile Image for Lindsay.
314 reviews8 followers
Read
April 14, 2020
why are bad books so long

I dislike how Lukan was portrayed. I don't think that he is weak. I think he was just trying to survive after a lifetime of abuse. I actually feel really bad for him. I think that Lynx is just as much to blame as he is regarding their relationship. I liked Axel, but I didn't like the love triangle aspect. That cheapened the entire story. I know that Lukan is going to turn out to be an evil emperor, but I feel like people molded him into that. Yes, he had a choice, but I think he was a victim of circumstance. I know he is constantly making bad decisions, but I genuinely think that he wants to be good and to be loved. I'm not saying that I want him and Lynx to be together. I just wish that they hadn't been paired at all. She abused him just like his dad did. Why does she get to be the "good guy" when she is more violent than he is? I can definitely see how this book isn't black or white. Maybe that was the author's intention. Idk. I just feel like it could have been better.
Profile Image for Auburn.
719 reviews4 followers
January 21, 2017
The good, the bad, the epilogue

The Good: The characters and their trials are relatable and make you feel for the people. Add to that the forbidden romances and you have yourself a good start to a series.

The bad: Lynx is by far a bad ass but her sister annoys me with her need to fit in. I also did not enjoy the way the story began, bringing us into that society and then not really expanding enough. Hopefully the next books show more.

The epilogue: Steampunk and dystopian fans will enjoy this series and the bad ass characters in it. Lynx is a warrior woman in her own right.
Profile Image for Destiny Bridwell.
1,719 reviews36 followers
February 12, 2017
      I got this book to give my honest opinion. I was not sure what I getting into. I did kind of get a steampunk, fantasy/ sci-fi feel. It is a genres I am trying to get into. I am not sure what to say about this book. It is a good read.
      This is about Lynx who is a proud warrior. She wants to do right by her people, but something changes. An arranged marriage and a prophecy. Her husband to be is Lukan. Who is doing his best to keep his empire from becoming a footnote in history. He did not know of the prophecy that came with that is almost like a cure. Now is love going to be enough to keep them save and moving forward? You will have to find out when you get your own copy.
Profile Image for Margo James.
454 reviews6 followers
December 25, 2020
Great, great story. You'll get addicted.

This series from Gwen White is going to be along the lines of Terry Brook and the Shanaya series. Probably not as long, but still as addictive. The pace of the story keeps this book a definite page turner. The characters are believable, especially Kestrel the snotty younger sister. Some people you love, some are uhh, and some you just really despise. Great balance of characters. There are people we can all identify in our life, makes them comfortable to read about. I know the book had to end and this is quite the cliffhanger ending.
I was given this book for free in exchange for an honest review
5 reviews
February 8, 2018
I really enjoyed reading this book and the previous ones as well. It has lost of unexpected turns and twists. This author's writing is very creative, her writing has style, and a uniqueness I really love. When i read these books i can almost picture myself there and that is another thing i like about her writing because not many authors can pull you in like she does. Some author's leave you confused or asking what happened? Not this author. I highly recommend this series! You are truly going to love all her books i guarantee it!
Profile Image for Tera Comer.
2,136 reviews48 followers
March 4, 2019
Very interesting blend of steampunk with post-apocalyptic/dystopian for the world building and well developed characters. I loved Lynx and her "attitude" on a lot of things, her sister on the other hand reminded me of my very spoiled little brother and his constant need to have the best of the best no matter what it does to others. There were times that part of the book were hard for me to catch on, as it was more political and I stay away from those types of books. But I ended up liking the book and cant wait to read the next one
979 reviews11 followers
November 12, 2017
Honor above all

Lynx, chosen to be commander of her father, the king's, warriors. 400 years of oppression and war. The emperor demands Lynx as bride for the heir, and leave her family and lands, her life, her warriors. Strong women are not tolerated by the oppressors. Excellent "medieval" storyline with steampunk overtones. Clean romance, riveting characters, great protagonist. Recommend this novel highly.
Profile Image for Ola Adamska.
2,881 reviews26 followers
May 27, 2017
Great story about getting to know what you can do for your people - and will you do it even if it means to sacrifice yourself by marrying an Emperor son of Empire that conquered her own.
Each event and each character weren't black or white. It changed even within few pages - as everything has different sides and points of view.
I couldn't put it down.
188 reviews1 follower
July 24, 2019
This book had it all!

Gorgeous hero, beautiful heroine, intrigue, action, attraction and deceit are all included in this story. This is a very fast-paced story and is easily read. The story has loads of fantasy embedded into it, but is still realistic enough to not be ridiculous. Getting the second book now..
90 reviews
August 1, 2019
Intrigue, political plotting

I found the story interesting . I did feel that chapter 36 should have come before chapter 35 it felt disjointed and not in sequence to me. Then story had no oblivious editorial errors and was well written. The characters are well developed and interesting. I am now going to read the next in series
111 reviews
August 13, 2024
It had its interesting moments. Too much time spent on romance but, that's kind of my fault as I was reading from a bundle and didn't notice that the book in standalone form was tagged as a Romance which isn't really my cup of tea. There is a lot of intrigue which added to the aforementioned "interesting moments." That being said, I doubt I'll be reading anymore of the series.
Profile Image for T..
Author 13 books573 followers
June 21, 2017
Rebel's Honor had a unique, exciting storyline with some excellent characters. It ended on a bit of a cliffhanger, but it was the logical place to stop the story. Good writing, fast-pace, and a few nice twists made this a great read. I'll check out pricing for book two, as the plot was a good one.
12.6k reviews189 followers
October 4, 2017
Amazing read by a superb author. Lynx and Lukan need to marry for the good of the land. A great fantasy story that has you in another land while you’re reading. Received a free book, but reviewing because I love it and anything this author writes.
Profile Image for KelticKat.
727 reviews30 followers
June 28, 2018
A Great Start!

This book is a great start to an intriguing journey to a fascinating world.

Love, Love, loved Lynx and her strength and even her shortcomings were alluring to me as a reader!

Definitely looking forward to another trip very soon!
88 reviews
August 28, 2018
DNF. Made it to 35% I tried, I really tried with this book, and the little that I read seemed okay, but in the end I just couldn’t do it. The book was mediocre at best and I really just couldn’t stand Lukan or kestrel.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.