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Irin Chronicles #4
The Staff and the Blade
Lovers. Warriors. Enemies. Legends.
Damien and Sari. Their union became pivotal in Irin history. But to understand their ending, you must go back to the beginning. A young singer and a hardened warrior meet and mate, but their life is torn apart by violence, betrayal, and grief.
Yet no matter how much pain and anger stain their lives, bonds in the Irin race cannot be abandoned. Damien and Sari will never truly leave each other, because those who are destined cannot be ignored.
The Staff and the Blade is a novel in four parts. It is the fourth book in the Irin Chronicles.
“She hates me as she loves me. Wholly and completely. Sari never does anything by halves.”
Damien and Sari. Their union became pivotal in Irin history. But to understand their ending, you must go back to the beginning. A young singer and a hardened warrior meet and mate, but their life is torn apart by violence, betrayal, and grief.
Yet no matter how much pain and anger stain their lives, bonds in the Irin race cannot be abandoned. Damien and Sari will never truly leave each other, because those who are destined cannot be ignored.
The Staff and the Blade is a novel in four parts. It is the fourth book in the Irin Chronicles.
“She hates me as she loves me. Wholly and completely. Sari never does anything by halves.”
490 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 12, 2016
814 people are currently reading
1677 people want to read
About the author
Elizabeth Hunter
83 books6,309 followersELIZABETH HUNTER is an eleven-time USA Today bestselling author of romance, contemporary fantasy, and paranormal mystery. Based in Central California and Addis Ababa, she travels extensively to write fantasy fiction exploring world mythologies, history, and the universal bonds of love, friendship, and family.
She has published over fifty works of fiction and sold over two million books world-wide. She is the author of the Elemental Mysteries, the Irin Chronicles, the Cambio Springs Mysteries, and other works of fiction.
She has published over fifty works of fiction and sold over two million books world-wide. She is the author of the Elemental Mysteries, the Irin Chronicles, the Cambio Springs Mysteries, and other works of fiction.
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March 1, 2018
First time in Kindle Unlimited!
So excited to announce that the entire Irin Chronicles series is in Kindle Unlimited for the next few months. I don't put much in KU, so if you're a KU reader, grab it while you can!
➜ Amazon: http://amzn.to/2aHGk17
The Staff and the Blade is now LIVE! I hope you grab your copy and enjoy Damien and Sari's story and the continuation of the Irin Chronicles world. It's a look at the past and a giant step into the future.
I'll also be turning on the "Ask the Author" feature on my dashboard now! So those of you with questions (about any book, but especially the Irin ones this week) can head over to my profile and ask away. I look forward to answering.
Excerpt:
“You’re calling me naive?”
“Yes.” She leaned forward. “You may be older than me, but you’re still the noble Irin warrior of ages past. This world is not black and white. It never has been.”
“You think I don’t know that?”
“You think every scribe has a conscience and a code of honor because you do.”
He looked away from her.
“Not every scribe is noble. Not every Irin wants the Irina back. Not every one of your brothers would sacrifice himself to protect me or any of my sisters.”
“I know I’m no saint. None of us are.”
“No, you’re honorable. And decent. And good.”
“Sari—”
“And I love that about you,” she continued, even as her throat started to close. “I love your honor. I love your decency. But Damien, the world is not like that. It’s a hard, cruel place with countless shades of grey. People are selfish and weak. We do things…” She choked. “We do horrible things because we think it’s the only way to survive.”
Damien turned back to her. “There is nothing you can do that would make me love you less, Sari.”
She gave him a bitter smile. “That’s because you don’t know what I’ve done.”
~
Copyright 2016, Elizabeth Hunter
All rights reserved.
July 5, 2016
Well let me start by disagreeing with the line in the synopsis that says "The Staff and the Blade is a four part stand-alone book". I cannot see anyone really enjoying this book to its fullest without a lot of prior knowledge from previous books in this series. Since the last book was a bit over a year ago I had to move some brain cells around to remember certain things and the action skips over events that took place in previous books so I do not see this book as any type of "stand alone" other than the love story is self contained, much of the rest of the book is detailing things that happened in previous books but were not part of those plots or it skips certain events completely that were detailed in previous books.
OK, now let me mention that this book is laid out a bit different in that it is 4 parts (or 4 books as the author refers to them) that tell a story that covers centuries, mainly revolving around an epic romance between Damien and Sari. It covers a love story that begins with passion and love, almost destroyed by tragedy and decades of separation and regret before we get to a most satisfying ending.
If you have read the other books in the series you know some of what is coming and you are so involved that you wish you could prevent some of it but are swept away by the history that has already been shared in previous books and is touched upon lightly in places and horrible detail in others.
You will be caught up in the emotion and scope of this romance and epic story as it slides across centuries while telling not only the evolving love story but also the evolving history of the Erin/Erina race.
Bottom Line: It has been more than a year since I read The Secret and there was a lot of things from that book you needed to know so read it first if you have not already. This is an amazing story and I can see why it took over a year for her to get it done, it covers a LOT of Erin history and tells a love story that is tempered by passion, love and tragedy. As always when I finish one of her books I am breathless and wishing there were more pages to read but it does have a satisfying conclusion and I hope we get to see a bit more of these characters in future books. So I give it 5 Stars without any reservations since you have a love story, adventure, tragedy, revenge, battles, sex, and overall an epic story you will remember long after you read the last page. What more could you want .
OK, now let me mention that this book is laid out a bit different in that it is 4 parts (or 4 books as the author refers to them) that tell a story that covers centuries, mainly revolving around an epic romance between Damien and Sari. It covers a love story that begins with passion and love, almost destroyed by tragedy and decades of separation and regret before we get to a most satisfying ending.
If you have read the other books in the series you know some of what is coming and you are so involved that you wish you could prevent some of it but are swept away by the history that has already been shared in previous books and is touched upon lightly in places and horrible detail in others.
You will be caught up in the emotion and scope of this romance and epic story as it slides across centuries while telling not only the evolving love story but also the evolving history of the Erin/Erina race.
Bottom Line: It has been more than a year since I read The Secret and there was a lot of things from that book you needed to know so read it first if you have not already. This is an amazing story and I can see why it took over a year for her to get it done, it covers a LOT of Erin history and tells a love story that is tempered by passion, love and tragedy. As always when I finish one of her books I am breathless and wishing there were more pages to read but it does have a satisfying conclusion and I hope we get to see a bit more of these characters in future books. So I give it 5 Stars without any reservations since you have a love story, adventure, tragedy, revenge, battles, sex, and overall an epic story you will remember long after you read the last page. What more could you want .
August 31, 2017
Like all the books in the series, simply Amazing! I've had this one tucked away on my Kindle...waiting to savor it like a fine wine. And like all the others, I loved it! These stories always challenge my heart, soul, and mind. I'm left with a feeling of fullness, contentment, and always...a longing for more. Beautifully done, Elizabeth Hunter! A Page Burning Must Read!
July 14, 2016
"Someday you will love a man, and the fire of it will be a violent, dangerous thing."
If memory serves me well, this is a forth book by Elizabeth Hunter I've rated so high, and it was exquisite, one of her finest.
Damien and Sari's story takes place over hundreds of years, so this book is rightfully split into four parts.
DREAMS describes young Sari meeting and falling for Damien, it's romantic and lighthearted, sweet and lovely. GHOSTS strains the depth of their feelings for each other and it's heartbreaking because it happens amidst The Rendering - famous Grigori attack which almost wiped Irina out from the face of the earth. MEMORIES follows the events of the second book in the series and finally, VISIONS happens two years after the battle in Vienna.
Each part is powerful in its own right, but GHOSTS is truly gutting. Elizabeth described events leading to The Rendering, the arrogance of scribes including Damien himself, the slow withdrawal of the singers from the human society, Grigori biding their time in a gripping atmosphere of foreboding. Of course, this part was essential to understand Sari's consequent separation from her mate. To be with him was too painful and she would have been smothered by his care while her rage and grief demanded vengeance.
Sari is the heroine of this book, she is the sun Damien orbits. Larger than life and full of emotions, driven and a talented warrior, she is a mesmerizing figure. At the same time she wasn't born special. All that she has is due to her iron will and centuries of hard graft. When she reunites with Damien it's heart-wrenching and romantic, but at the same time their healing is a very slow process and the couple goes through a lot of hurdles along the way.
VISIONS is the most exciting part of the book and it's rife with possibilities for the new future. In a way it reminded me of Deborah Harkness' A Discovery of Witches. It had that same feel about it. Old clashing with new, modernization catching up to old and venerable warrior skills, a new look on a very old enemy... It's such a great direction for the whole series to take, there are beginnings of new couples and new plot twists scattered everywhere like Easter eggs. It's like you are turning around the corner and there is a whole new vista opening up.
So, here we are. With a formidable couple, rich history and an exciting future. Nowhere else I'd rather be. Read it, it was near perfect.
* * *
Если мне не изменяет память, то это четвёртая книга Элизабет Хантер, которую я оцениваю так высоко. И не зря, ведь она - одна из лучших, тончайших работ автора.
История Дамьена и Сари охватывает 4 века, так что логически книга разделена на четыре части. МЕЧТЫ рассказывает о том, как Дамьен и Сари встретились и влюбились друг в друга, эта часть романтична, мила и душевна. ПРИЗРАКИ повествует о событиях предшествующих и во время Разрыва, который послужил поводом расставания пары. ВОСПОМИНАНИЯ рассказывает о событиях после первой книги серии и воссоединении любовников, и наконец, ВИДЕНИЯ повествует о происходящем два года спустя битвы в Вене.
Каждая часть сильна в своём праве, но ПРИЗРАКИ самая болезненная и трагичная часть книги. Элизабет ярко описала события, предшествующие Разрыву и уничтожению практически всех Ирина и их детей со стороны Григори; гордыню и самоуверенность Писцов, включая Дамьена; предвиденное Талой, медленный уход Певиц Ирина из человеческого общества; ярость и бессилие Сари что-то изменить... Под конец этой части читатель понимает, что Сари никак не могла остаться с Дамьеном, иначе она бы не смогла выжить после травмы и своих потерь.
Сари - героиня этой книги, солнце вокруг которого вращается по орбите Дамьен. Она не рождена с какими-то уникальными способностями. Всё, чего она достигла, случилось из-за её упорства и тяжёлой работы. Сари больше чем жизнь, наполненная эмоциями, целеустремлённая и талантливый воин. Её воссоединение с Дамьеном пронзительно романтично и от него щемит сердце, и в то же время читателю ясно, что им ещё долго придётся работать над шероховатостями в отношениях и старыми ранами.
ВИДЕНИЯ оказывается самой интригующей частью книги, наполненной новыми поворотами сюжета и огромным потенциалом для продолжения серии. Модернизация требует изменения вековых традиций Ирин, статус Григори изменяется из-за находки карешт. Само мировоззрение Ирин вынуждено наконец-то адаптироваться к новому времени.
В общем, сильная пара, богатая история, очень интересное будущее. Скучать не придётся, читать необходимо!
If memory serves me well, this is a forth book by Elizabeth Hunter I've rated so high, and it was exquisite, one of her finest.
Damien and Sari's story takes place over hundreds of years, so this book is rightfully split into four parts.
DREAMS describes young Sari meeting and falling for Damien, it's romantic and lighthearted, sweet and lovely. GHOSTS strains the depth of their feelings for each other and it's heartbreaking because it happens amidst The Rendering - famous Grigori attack which almost wiped Irina out from the face of the earth. MEMORIES follows the events of the second book in the series and finally, VISIONS happens two years after the battle in Vienna.
Each part is powerful in its own right, but GHOSTS is truly gutting. Elizabeth described events leading to The Rendering, the arrogance of scribes including Damien himself, the slow withdrawal of the singers from the human society, Grigori biding their time in a gripping atmosphere of foreboding. Of course, this part was essential to understand Sari's consequent separation from her mate. To be with him was too painful and she would have been smothered by his care while her rage and grief demanded vengeance.
Sari is the heroine of this book, she is the sun Damien orbits. Larger than life and full of emotions, driven and a talented warrior, she is a mesmerizing figure. At the same time she wasn't born special. All that she has is due to her iron will and centuries of hard graft. When she reunites with Damien it's heart-wrenching and romantic, but at the same time their healing is a very slow process and the couple goes through a lot of hurdles along the way.
VISIONS is the most exciting part of the book and it's rife with possibilities for the new future. In a way it reminded me of Deborah Harkness' A Discovery of Witches. It had that same feel about it. Old clashing with new, modernization catching up to old and venerable warrior skills, a new look on a very old enemy... It's such a great direction for the whole series to take, there are beginnings of new couples and new plot twists scattered everywhere like Easter eggs. It's like you are turning around the corner and there is a whole new vista opening up.
So, here we are. With a formidable couple, rich history and an exciting future. Nowhere else I'd rather be. Read it, it was near perfect.
* * *
Если мне не изменяет память, то это четвёртая книга Элизабет Хантер, которую я оцениваю так высоко. И не зря, ведь она - одна из лучших, тончайших работ автора.
История Дамьена и Сари охватывает 4 века, так что логически книга разделена на четыре части. МЕЧТЫ рассказывает о том, как Дамьен и Сари встретились и влюбились друг в друга, эта часть романтична, мила и душевна. ПРИЗРАКИ повествует о событиях предшествующих и во время Разрыва, который послужил поводом расставания пары. ВОСПОМИНАНИЯ рассказывает о событиях после первой книги серии и воссоединении любовников, и наконец, ВИДЕНИЯ повествует о происходящем два года спустя битвы в Вене.
Каждая часть сильна в своём праве, но ПРИЗРАКИ самая болезненная и трагичная часть книги. Элизабет ярко описала события, предшествующие Разрыву и уничтожению практически всех Ирина и их детей со стороны Григори; гордыню и самоуверенность Писцов, включая Дамьена; предвиденное Талой, медленный уход Певиц Ирина из человеческого общества; ярость и бессилие Сари что-то изменить... Под конец этой части читатель понимает, что Сари никак не могла остаться с Дамьеном, иначе она бы не смогла выжить после травмы и своих потерь.
Сари - героиня этой книги, солнце вокруг которого вращается по орбите Дамьен. Она не рождена с какими-то уникальными способностями. Всё, чего она достигла, случилось из-за её упорства и тяжёлой работы. Сари больше чем жизнь, наполненная эмоциями, целеустремлённая и талантливый воин. Её воссоединение с Дамьеном пронзительно романтично и от него щемит сердце, и в то же время читателю ясно, что им ещё долго придётся работать над шероховатостями в отношениях и старыми ранами.
ВИДЕНИЯ оказывается самой интригующей частью книги, наполненной новыми поворотами сюжета и огромным потенциалом для продолжения серии. Модернизация требует изменения вековых традиций Ирин, статус Григори изменяется из-за находки карешт. Само мировоззрение Ирин вынуждено наконец-то адаптироваться к новому времени.
В общем, сильная пара, богатая история, очень интересное будущее. Скучать не придётся, читать необходимо!
July 29, 2016
4.5 stars. Epic and soul satisfying. More review to come.
July 5, 2017
I am going to TRY convey how amazing this book is.
Our journey spans from Orkney to London to Norway to Istanbul and Prague. It was so exciting experiencing these different parts of the world. An upbeat book with fast paced action not once did the book come across as being dull. A world created that is beautiful and wild but filled with violence and danger.
I was intrigued by Sari and Damien and the palpable feelings they had for one another when I read about them in book three, if I remember correctly but from the start it was clear that is an old love where the MC have a lot to overcome.
Damien of Bohemia was a legend content to live in obscurity. Weary from a century of human and Irin bloodshed. He lost so much that he needed two hundred years of solitude to heal. True healing started when his reshon. Where the heaven has sent the other half but Sari doesn’t believe in fate.
Damien is one of the best Heroes that I have read this year. He came to life on each page. He is moody, mysterious and yet kind and compassionate.
Sari is an earth singer and is being sent to Scotland, Orkney to help the community there with the crops. Sari is unlike any other earth singer Damien has ever meet. He didn’t want to be attracted.
Sari is a fantastic heroine and my kind of heroine.
She was honest to the point of rudeness. – So true and so refreshing.
She is strong, compassionate, fierce and Damien’s equal.
Sari & Damien’s love spans of nearly 800+ years and oh my gosh was there love a beauty to watch how it blossomed and how it was heart wrenching to see it break. The Rending changed everything and the Irin race was divided. The Irina retreated, traps were laid and the death of so many in such a brief time. There was so much loss and heartache. But the book also included joy and happiness. Each word and sentence was emotional. But it is also about forgiveness and grief and moving on.
All the characters came to life. I felt with them every step of the way. With Ms. Hunter’s writing, I was welcomed into their world. I was sucked in and I had no chance of fighting it. Damien and Sari are so different from one another and that is why they are so good together.
One thing did bother me Sari was being too stubborn and not bending she didn’t have to break but at least bend. But not enough to dock a star.
I can only recommend this series and maybe I am totally biased but it is worth it. Trust me. Famous last words. I have loved this author’s work since B & Gio. Each book has gotten better.
I was positive that Ms. Hunter couldn’t have been able to pull it off. As their love was woven around Ava and Malachi. I should never have doubted you. I quite frankly find it hard to wrap my mind around it as the couple is captured in the past, with a crossover into Ava’s story and to the future the after of revealing a thousand stars.
There are layers upon layers of complexity that even if you read it again and again you would still find something gripping and fascinating. Experiencing the characters emotions and not being bored.
There was humor to break up the tense interactions now sometimes some authors can’t get that balance right but it worked here and it worked well.
I don’t usually compare authors but if I had to then Ms. Hunter would be on par with Nalini Singh.
October 30, 2019
Read the first 3 books before this one
It boggles my mind that this book is being marketed as a standalone. There is no way to truly appreciate this book without the journey of Ava/Malachi as well as Damien and Sari's interactions in the prior 3 books. This book makes the way they relate to each other make more sense and give their love story more meat.
I have always enjoyed Damien...even more so than Sari but their past was painful. There was great pain, loss and later forgiveness.
This story and series is very well done. It's creative, emotional and really engaging. I was pleasantly surprised by how much I remembered from the prior books. I want to catch up on the rest of the books now
It boggles my mind that this book is being marketed as a standalone. There is no way to truly appreciate this book without the journey of Ava/Malachi as well as Damien and Sari's interactions in the prior 3 books. This book makes the way they relate to each other make more sense and give their love story more meat.
I have always enjoyed Damien...even more so than Sari but their past was painful. There was great pain, loss and later forgiveness.
This story and series is very well done. It's creative, emotional and really engaging. I was pleasantly surprised by how much I remembered from the prior books. I want to catch up on the rest of the books now
June 11, 2016
Amazing, heart-wrenching story, beautifully written.
Longer review to come.
Longer review to come.
July 25, 2016
Beautifully written!
Ms. Hunter surprised me again with yet another fascinating story. I honestly wasn't looking forward to this novel as much (i know, Irin Chronicles is probably my least favorite series of hers), but as soon as I started reading I was truly captivated by Sari and Damien's journey. The last installment was reminiscent of Deborah Harkness's Shadow of Night (one of my personal favorites), so I couldn't help but devour this [The Staff and the Blade] novel. Grand love, epic battles, gorgeous world-building, and interesting mythology - perfectly combined to captivate any reader.
This novel can possibly be read as a stand-alone, but I much recommend starting from the beginning and getting acquainted with this world and its characters properly.
Highly recommended!
Ms. Hunter surprised me again with yet another fascinating story. I honestly wasn't looking forward to this novel as much (i know, Irin Chronicles is probably my least favorite series of hers), but as soon as I started reading I was truly captivated by Sari and Damien's journey. The last installment was reminiscent of Deborah Harkness's Shadow of Night (one of my personal favorites), so I couldn't help but devour this [The Staff and the Blade] novel. Grand love, epic battles, gorgeous world-building, and interesting mythology - perfectly combined to captivate any reader.
This novel can possibly be read as a stand-alone, but I much recommend starting from the beginning and getting acquainted with this world and its characters properly.
Highly recommended!
September 17, 2019
4.5 Stars... I absolutely loved the journey of Damien's and Sari's story... This read takes us through 600 years of their love story; through the humorous beginnings, to the tragic losses, and ultimately to a place of reconciliation and new beginnings... Beautifully written romance filled with passion, turmoil, honesty, and bravery... I enjoyed getting to know these characters on a deeper level and watching how they navigated the obstacles in their path to happiness... Another powerful addition to this unique and fascinating series:)
July 13, 2016
We all want someone to love us when we’re difficult to love.
We want someone who stands by us when no matter what we do, what we say…
…How far we go.
Damien and Sari have lived through the absolute worst life can throw at us. They have seen loved ones lost, their families ripped asunder, and their very world fracture.
And yet… love remains.
There are few contemporary authors that have the ability to not only sweep us into a story, but into a world we could believe exists congruently outside our doors. I read Ms. Hunter's books and could easily believe in the song of the Irina, or in the cultural complications of vampire society.
She presents rich characters, meaty plots and colorful worlds in which we want to immerse ourselves. I cannot recommend her books, including this one, enough. They are what we would love all books to be.
We want someone who stands by us when no matter what we do, what we say…
…How far we go.
Damien and Sari have lived through the absolute worst life can throw at us. They have seen loved ones lost, their families ripped asunder, and their very world fracture.
And yet… love remains.
There are few contemporary authors that have the ability to not only sweep us into a story, but into a world we could believe exists congruently outside our doors. I read Ms. Hunter's books and could easily believe in the song of the Irina, or in the cultural complications of vampire society.
She presents rich characters, meaty plots and colorful worlds in which we want to immerse ourselves. I cannot recommend her books, including this one, enough. They are what we would love all books to be.
October 17, 2016
Fantastic! I really hope there will be more books in the series.
March 24, 2017
Good book
Really good read to continue the series can't wait for the next boo this year. I really like these books
Really good read to continue the series can't wait for the next boo this year. I really like these books
May 1, 2025
A story told in four parts over hundreds of years, I felt everything along with Sari and Damien, from the most painful sorrow to the greatest joyful contentment. 💜
March 13, 2017
4 stars
After I read the first trilogy of Irin Chronicles (The Scribe, The Singer and The Secret), didn't take me too long to read the next, The Staff and the Blade. Despite the description that said its consist of 4 stand alone novella, The Staff and The Blade can't be read as a stand alone. Since the MCs, Damien and Sari are important characters, their story told in the first three book, and this book will explain their background story. From the first they met, how they become estranged couple and unite again under unpredictable circumstances, and how they cope with the final battle that happen in the end of The Secret.
DREAMS told how Damien and Sari met and become a mate. This novella is just your standard paranormal romance story. Boy feel weary after war and war, his soul tormented. Boy meet this peculiar girl, and he feel that his dark soul brighten under her light. Girl want the boy. They mate afterward. Pretty simple story, though. The scene when Damien and Sari mate and bond their souls for eternity is my favorite.
GHOSTS....is hard to read. Readers will know in the first trilogy about The Rending. How Damien failed his men and his family, by lost Sari's twin, Tala. How Tala's mate, Gabriel hate Damien so much. How Sari lost their child, and with the rest of Irina survivor decide to exile themselves, therefore make the Irin scribe suffer for centuries, not able to mate and also wallow in their failure. And how Damien and Sari become estranged. Unable to forgive each other and themselves. We know that its happen, we know that its unavoidable. That's why reading Ghosts is so painful.
MEMORIES happen in the same timeline with The Singer, when Damien bring Ava to Sari's haven in Oslo. The prologue is also hard to read, because it's deal with the aftermath of the Rending. How Damien and Sari become estranged for 200 years but still try to make contact and dream-walking, until Damien choose to walk away is amazed me. Memories is about forgiveness, about healing, about Damien and Sari try to make amend with their past. Not as hard and painful to read like Ghosts, but still the angst wrenched my heart. There was a saying, the opposite of love is not hate, but indifference. Hate means that person still care, even in a negative way. Indifference is hurt. Damien feel that he deserve Sari's wrath and rage, he prefer she to be angry to him, rather that silence. For married couple- especially me-, this novella will connect in so many way. The foundation of marriage (or mating bond, or union), is not just love. Not just sex. Not just commitment. But also communication. Read about Sari's silence and indifference toward Damien can be so frustating. But I like that Damien is a guy that didn't want to give up. Memories is my favorite novella in this book.
VISIONS is a little bit abrupt for my taste. Hunter write the effect of the final battle to both Sari and Damien, but especially Sari. How their fundamental way of Irin change in so many way, left not just them to feel unbalanced, but the rest of the Irin and Irina society. Visions is about what is waiting for Damien and Sari in the future and the conclusion of the story. While the story feel rushed and the end is abrupt, I can said that I feel satisfied with the ending. Both Damien and Sari need a little peace, and how Hunter write about child, a topic that still sensitive for both MCs is quite right.
Overall I enjoy this book. I like both Sari and Damien as characters, and I think that theirs are better character than Malachi and Ava. Beside second chances also my favorite trope. The Staff and the Blade is a must read, if you had read the first trilogy of Irin Chronicles and I can't wait to read the next book, The Silence, Leo and Kyra's story.
After I read the first trilogy of Irin Chronicles (The Scribe, The Singer and The Secret), didn't take me too long to read the next, The Staff and the Blade. Despite the description that said its consist of 4 stand alone novella, The Staff and The Blade can't be read as a stand alone. Since the MCs, Damien and Sari are important characters, their story told in the first three book, and this book will explain their background story. From the first they met, how they become estranged couple and unite again under unpredictable circumstances, and how they cope with the final battle that happen in the end of The Secret.
DREAMS told how Damien and Sari met and become a mate. This novella is just your standard paranormal romance story. Boy feel weary after war and war, his soul tormented. Boy meet this peculiar girl, and he feel that his dark soul brighten under her light. Girl want the boy. They mate afterward. Pretty simple story, though. The scene when Damien and Sari mate and bond their souls for eternity is my favorite.
GHOSTS....is hard to read. Readers will know in the first trilogy about The Rending. How Damien failed his men and his family, by lost Sari's twin, Tala. How Tala's mate, Gabriel hate Damien so much. How Sari lost their child, and with the rest of Irina survivor decide to exile themselves, therefore make the Irin scribe suffer for centuries, not able to mate and also wallow in their failure. And how Damien and Sari become estranged. Unable to forgive each other and themselves. We know that its happen, we know that its unavoidable. That's why reading Ghosts is so painful.
MEMORIES happen in the same timeline with The Singer, when Damien bring Ava to Sari's haven in Oslo. The prologue is also hard to read, because it's deal with the aftermath of the Rending. How Damien and Sari become estranged for 200 years but still try to make contact and dream-walking, until Damien choose to walk away is amazed me. Memories is about forgiveness, about healing, about Damien and Sari try to make amend with their past. Not as hard and painful to read like Ghosts, but still the angst wrenched my heart. There was a saying, the opposite of love is not hate, but indifference. Hate means that person still care, even in a negative way. Indifference is hurt. Damien feel that he deserve Sari's wrath and rage, he prefer she to be angry to him, rather that silence. For married couple- especially me-, this novella will connect in so many way. The foundation of marriage (or mating bond, or union), is not just love. Not just sex. Not just commitment. But also communication. Read about Sari's silence and indifference toward Damien can be so frustating. But I like that Damien is a guy that didn't want to give up. Memories is my favorite novella in this book.
VISIONS is a little bit abrupt for my taste. Hunter write the effect of the final battle to both Sari and Damien, but especially Sari. How their fundamental way of Irin change in so many way, left not just them to feel unbalanced, but the rest of the Irin and Irina society. Visions is about what is waiting for Damien and Sari in the future and the conclusion of the story. While the story feel rushed and the end is abrupt, I can said that I feel satisfied with the ending. Both Damien and Sari need a little peace, and how Hunter write about child, a topic that still sensitive for both MCs is quite right.
Overall I enjoy this book. I like both Sari and Damien as characters, and I think that theirs are better character than Malachi and Ava. Beside second chances also my favorite trope. The Staff and the Blade is a must read, if you had read the first trilogy of Irin Chronicles and I can't wait to read the next book, The Silence, Leo and Kyra's story.
July 16, 2016
*Disclosure: ARC received from the author in exchange for a honest review. Review originally featured on Wicked Scribes*
A hauntingly beautiful tale of love, suffering, sacrifice, and ultimately forgiveness that spans centuries.
Ever since Sari and Damien did battle in a meadow in "The Singer" and Damien held back (some) so that Sari could vent her rage on him, I have been dying to read their story. As they both appear as important secondary characters in Malachi and Ava's story it is strongly recommended that new readers start with the first three books of the Irin Chronicles.
Damien is an Irin scribe and a warrior by blood and training. But years of war, killing and doing unspeakable things in the service of the council of his race have left him battle weary and empty. So he retreats to a little community in the Orkneys were he can tend to his manuscripts and fields and otherwise be left in peace. Until Sari, a young but powerful earth singer, is stationed there to help improve the crops. She is fascinated with the taciturn warrior who keeps to himself but as far as she can discover he doesn't seem interested in women in general. But when he sees her work magic for the first time his soul recognizes hers. Sari doesn't believe in fate and soulmates, she wants to forge her own destiny. When Damien is called away on a long mission Sari realizes that she wants to choose him, too, not because it was ordained by fate, but because of who he is.
Just as their relationship seems settled, the "Rending" occurs, the most traumatic event in the history of their people. The society of the Irin is structured in a way that the (male) scribes are the warriors and protectors, while the (female) singers tend home and hearth and maybe follow artistic pursuits. To protect the women they are segregated in so called retreats in the country, while the scribes hunt their enemies in the cities. This proves disastrous as their enemies mount a concentrated large scale attack, drawing the scribes away, leaving the retreats that were believed to be safe unprotected. Mostly Irin women and children loose their lives, with many warriors following their mate, rather than go on without them. Sari survives because she insisted that Damien train her to fight, but she blames Damien, who was the watcher of their community, for what has happened. Damien blames himself, and so he not only carries his own pain, but takes on hers as well. In the aftermath they disagree on how what remains of their society should be restructered: Damien still adheres to the dictates of the council while Sari is building safe havens for the Irina all over the world, where they are free of council mandates. Their rare meetings become so painful that they stop seeing each other altogether, except for in their dreams. Then Ava's mate is killed and Damien decides to take her to Sari's safe haven in order for her to heal and to learn to control her magic. Will Damien and Sari be able to overcome the rift between them that was caused by pain, betrayal, and loss? Will they be able to forgive each other and themselves? And will they be able to fight the calcified structures of their council in order to reform their society?
I loved everything about this book: the love story between Damien and Sari that starts out sweet and poignant and then turns so heart-breaking; the two main protagonists, Sari with her independent spirit and sometimes abrasive demeanor and her kick-ass personality, Damien, who is strong and honorable (and hot), and brave enough to lay his soul bare. I also liked how the characters developed and grew throughout the novel, and how they learnt from their mistakes. And I found it extremely refreshing that their union is one of choice, that they came together out of love and not because of duty or fate or some inescapable mate bond.
Then there is the superb world-building with just the right amount of historical and local detail to weave a fascinating tapestry; it serves as the perfect backdrop for this epic tale of the descendants of fallen angels that fight to keep humanity safe. The overarching plot revisits and continues threads that were developed in the first three books, but also changes some of the premises set up at the beginning oft he series: the boundaries between good and evil are starting to get blurred.
The most fascinating aspect for me was the strong gender criticism pervading this book: the structures of Irin society have become very patriarchal, with men making all the decisions and the women being segregated "for their own protection", instead of being taught how to protect themselves. It is precisely this thinking that has led to the worst tragedy in Irin history. The Irina/singers have different magic than the Irin/scribes, but it is just as powerful. Damien, though, always wished for a mate that could match him strength for strength. Hopefully the council can be brought to realize that a more egalitarian approach to the gender question will strengthen their society and not weaken it.
5+ stars from me. I strongly hope Elizabeth Hunter will continue to write stories in this fascinating and darkly compelling world.
A hauntingly beautiful tale of love, suffering, sacrifice, and ultimately forgiveness that spans centuries.
Ever since Sari and Damien did battle in a meadow in "The Singer" and Damien held back (some) so that Sari could vent her rage on him, I have been dying to read their story. As they both appear as important secondary characters in Malachi and Ava's story it is strongly recommended that new readers start with the first three books of the Irin Chronicles.
Damien is an Irin scribe and a warrior by blood and training. But years of war, killing and doing unspeakable things in the service of the council of his race have left him battle weary and empty. So he retreats to a little community in the Orkneys were he can tend to his manuscripts and fields and otherwise be left in peace. Until Sari, a young but powerful earth singer, is stationed there to help improve the crops. She is fascinated with the taciturn warrior who keeps to himself but as far as she can discover he doesn't seem interested in women in general. But when he sees her work magic for the first time his soul recognizes hers. Sari doesn't believe in fate and soulmates, she wants to forge her own destiny. When Damien is called away on a long mission Sari realizes that she wants to choose him, too, not because it was ordained by fate, but because of who he is.
Just as their relationship seems settled, the "Rending" occurs, the most traumatic event in the history of their people. The society of the Irin is structured in a way that the (male) scribes are the warriors and protectors, while the (female) singers tend home and hearth and maybe follow artistic pursuits. To protect the women they are segregated in so called retreats in the country, while the scribes hunt their enemies in the cities. This proves disastrous as their enemies mount a concentrated large scale attack, drawing the scribes away, leaving the retreats that were believed to be safe unprotected. Mostly Irin women and children loose their lives, with many warriors following their mate, rather than go on without them. Sari survives because she insisted that Damien train her to fight, but she blames Damien, who was the watcher of their community, for what has happened. Damien blames himself, and so he not only carries his own pain, but takes on hers as well. In the aftermath they disagree on how what remains of their society should be restructered: Damien still adheres to the dictates of the council while Sari is building safe havens for the Irina all over the world, where they are free of council mandates. Their rare meetings become so painful that they stop seeing each other altogether, except for in their dreams. Then Ava's mate is killed and Damien decides to take her to Sari's safe haven in order for her to heal and to learn to control her magic. Will Damien and Sari be able to overcome the rift between them that was caused by pain, betrayal, and loss? Will they be able to forgive each other and themselves? And will they be able to fight the calcified structures of their council in order to reform their society?
I loved everything about this book: the love story between Damien and Sari that starts out sweet and poignant and then turns so heart-breaking; the two main protagonists, Sari with her independent spirit and sometimes abrasive demeanor and her kick-ass personality, Damien, who is strong and honorable (and hot), and brave enough to lay his soul bare. I also liked how the characters developed and grew throughout the novel, and how they learnt from their mistakes. And I found it extremely refreshing that their union is one of choice, that they came together out of love and not because of duty or fate or some inescapable mate bond.
Then there is the superb world-building with just the right amount of historical and local detail to weave a fascinating tapestry; it serves as the perfect backdrop for this epic tale of the descendants of fallen angels that fight to keep humanity safe. The overarching plot revisits and continues threads that were developed in the first three books, but also changes some of the premises set up at the beginning oft he series: the boundaries between good and evil are starting to get blurred.
The most fascinating aspect for me was the strong gender criticism pervading this book: the structures of Irin society have become very patriarchal, with men making all the decisions and the women being segregated "for their own protection", instead of being taught how to protect themselves. It is precisely this thinking that has led to the worst tragedy in Irin history. The Irina/singers have different magic than the Irin/scribes, but it is just as powerful. Damien, though, always wished for a mate that could match him strength for strength. Hopefully the council can be brought to realize that a more egalitarian approach to the gender question will strengthen their society and not weaken it.
5+ stars from me. I strongly hope Elizabeth Hunter will continue to write stories in this fascinating and darkly compelling world.
June 8, 2017
I just love this series. I love the characters and the world they inhabit. And this entry in the series does not disappoint. Taking a different approach than the first 3 books, this book jumps back in time to the beginning of the relationship between 2 secondary characters from the series. Diving deeply into the themes of grief and forgiveness, this book paints a relationship over the long term. There is certainly romance and politics and other themes common from the entire series. But this book is somewhat darker and more serious. The main characters have a more contentious relationship. And their struggles to overcome their own demons while staying bound to their mates is at the heart of the story. The emotions are well portrayed and even though the stubbornness of the characters can be frustrating at times, they seem very genuine.
February 10, 2018
Audiobook & ebook review:
The Staff and The Blade is Damien and Sari’s story. The book takes you back to the beginning of their relationship, the reason for their separation and hurt feelings, through Ava’s meeting the fabled Irina, and Damien’s family. The story is an extraordinary tale of guilt, love, happiness, battles, pain, revenge, and joy. The characters are believable. You’ll laugh and cry. Jay Britton did a good job. I turned the speed of the audiobook to 1.25x since the pauses between each sentence wasn’t to my liking (personal preference not to be used to dissuade other buyers) I wish however that since Zachary Webber started the series he could have narrated this book too. I’m a listener who devours series and when narrators change halfway through with different voices for the same characters in previous books it’s very annoying and dissatisfying (again personal preference that should not be used to dissuade buyers).
The Staff and The Blade is Damien and Sari’s story. The book takes you back to the beginning of their relationship, the reason for their separation and hurt feelings, through Ava’s meeting the fabled Irina, and Damien’s family. The story is an extraordinary tale of guilt, love, happiness, battles, pain, revenge, and joy. The characters are believable. You’ll laugh and cry. Jay Britton did a good job. I turned the speed of the audiobook to 1.25x since the pauses between each sentence wasn’t to my liking (personal preference not to be used to dissuade other buyers) I wish however that since Zachary Webber started the series he could have narrated this book too. I’m a listener who devours series and when narrators change halfway through with different voices for the same characters in previous books it’s very annoying and dissatisfying (again personal preference that should not be used to dissuade buyers).
July 14, 2016
4+ stars = I really liked it. From the previous Irin books we've seen Damien and Sari and already know that theirs was not an easy mating - they are mates and connected but not always together. Here their story is told in four 'books' (Dream, Ghosts, Memories, Visions.) The Staff and the Blade starts hundreds of years before the Irin trilogy (The Scribe, The Singer, and the Secret) and continues afterwards, with Memories and Visions overlapping the The Singer and the Secret just a bit.
At the start of the Staff and the Blade, Scribe Damian has taken an extended break from the toll that his warrior life has taken on his psyche, trying to find peace in an isolated village when young Sari takes on her first duty as Singer and brings him back to life. I loved seeing the start of their time together and how even though we know that they are mates, it is not an automatic thing. I especially loved that despite the hundreds of years separation in age, that Damian sees Sari as an equal and seeks to develop her power to make her a full partner.
Having read the complete Irin series, and knowing what was coming, parts of the book were very stressful to read. I had a hard time when I read The Singer connecting to the Irina - I now understand better Sari's anger after seeing the events from her eyes. But even still, for me the emotional power of the fallout from those events (hundreds of years later) is the effect on the young Scribes - it made me go back and reread the telling of the Rending in the first book.
Even though the Staff and the Blade does revisit a few of the touch points in the previous stories, there isn't much repetition, there's just enough to anchor Damian and Sari's story to the original timeline. And I very much liked the final part of the book which occurs after The Secret and the way that it solidified the future for both Damian and Sari and the Irin as well.
If you haven't read the earlier Irin books and you are thinking of reading them, I would recommend reading them first even though The Staff and the Blade supposed to be standalone - while it is for Damian and Sari story and Sari is much easier to like when you know her whole story there is a lot of emotional impact in Ava and Malachi's story in the earlier books that would be spoiled by reading this first. If you have already read the books, this is a nice journey back to the world of the Irin and a nice wrap up to the series.
Arc courtesy of the author in exchange for an honest review
At the start of the Staff and the Blade, Scribe Damian has taken an extended break from the toll that his warrior life has taken on his psyche, trying to find peace in an isolated village when young Sari takes on her first duty as Singer and brings him back to life. I loved seeing the start of their time together and how even though we know that they are mates, it is not an automatic thing. I especially loved that despite the hundreds of years separation in age, that Damian sees Sari as an equal and seeks to develop her power to make her a full partner.
Having read the complete Irin series, and knowing what was coming, parts of the book were very stressful to read. I had a hard time when I read The Singer connecting to the Irina - I now understand better Sari's anger after seeing the events from her eyes. But even still, for me the emotional power of the fallout from those events (hundreds of years later) is the effect on the young Scribes - it made me go back and reread the telling of the Rending in the first book.
Even though the Staff and the Blade does revisit a few of the touch points in the previous stories, there isn't much repetition, there's just enough to anchor Damian and Sari's story to the original timeline. And I very much liked the final part of the book which occurs after The Secret and the way that it solidified the future for both Damian and Sari and the Irin as well.
If you haven't read the earlier Irin books and you are thinking of reading them, I would recommend reading them first even though The Staff and the Blade supposed to be standalone - while it is for Damian and Sari story and Sari is much easier to like when you know her whole story there is a lot of emotional impact in Ava and Malachi's story in the earlier books that would be spoiled by reading this first. If you have already read the books, this is a nice journey back to the world of the Irin and a nice wrap up to the series.
Arc courtesy of the author in exchange for an honest review
July 22, 2016
Spectacular!
February 24, 2021
Epic
This entire series and story is just epic. Transpiring over hundreds of years it just keeps getting better. Absolutely love it.
This entire series and story is just epic. Transpiring over hundreds of years it just keeps getting better. Absolutely love it.
February 3, 2026
3.5 stars
An emotional and exciting urban fantasy with a second-chance romance that spans hundreds of years, this is a rollercoaster of a read! It’s the fourth book in the Irin Chronicles series, and a direct follow on from the original trilogy, a spin-off story for side characters Damien and Sari, and should absolutely not be read as a standalone.
I loved Damien and Sari in the first books of this series. They are bonded mates who are apart when we met them, both fierce, strong and stubborn warriors, and their story was screaming to be told. This book is split into four parts, showing us their meeting and falling in love over 400 years ago, the Rending which impacted their world so dramatically, the events of The Singer and The Secret (books #2 and #3), and then into the future to see them deal with the aftermath of all of those events.
It’s a wild ride for these two, and the story moves from the remote Orkney Islands where they meet and snark and bicker until they come to accept their bond and fall madly for each other, to Paris, London, Norway, Vienna, Turkey and the Czech Republic. As a follow on from the original trilogy, I knew some of the events that would happen in this book, and OMG, the anxiety! I read with a sense of dread, knowing what was coming, and though I knew it would hurt, I still wasn’t ready.
But the separation! OMG, whyyyyyyy? It seemed so unfair, and I was so mad, mostly at Sari, for letting it go on for so long. I could understand the reasoning behind it, but in a world where mates are sacred, and having lost so much, it just felt wrong in so many ways, and I was so frustrated. It made me feel like their love wasn’t strong enough for all that they’d been through, and it’s not what I wanted for these two.
Happy times do come though, and I loved seeing their reunion and where their story goes next. The Irin world is forever changed, and they’re navigating it as best they can, and I loved seeing them work through it and create a new life together.
With the overlap from earlier books, we get to see all of the characters again, and there’s some good set-up there for more spin-offs, and I’m looking forward to reading more about these characters and this world.
I listened to this as an audiobook, narrated by Jay Britton, and my thoughts are mixed. While I think he did a good job with the story, the way he voiced Damien was really off-putting for me. It was so unnecessarily gruff with not enough emotion (and don’t get me started on his Malachi voice!). I think I may have enjoyed this one more if I had actually read it.
I did enjoy this book – though not the epic emotional romance I was hoping for, it’s still a good read.
3.5 stars.
An emotional and exciting urban fantasy with a second-chance romance that spans hundreds of years, this is a rollercoaster of a read! It’s the fourth book in the Irin Chronicles series, and a direct follow on from the original trilogy, a spin-off story for side characters Damien and Sari, and should absolutely not be read as a standalone.
I loved Damien and Sari in the first books of this series. They are bonded mates who are apart when we met them, both fierce, strong and stubborn warriors, and their story was screaming to be told. This book is split into four parts, showing us their meeting and falling in love over 400 years ago, the Rending which impacted their world so dramatically, the events of The Singer and The Secret (books #2 and #3), and then into the future to see them deal with the aftermath of all of those events.
It’s a wild ride for these two, and the story moves from the remote Orkney Islands where they meet and snark and bicker until they come to accept their bond and fall madly for each other, to Paris, London, Norway, Vienna, Turkey and the Czech Republic. As a follow on from the original trilogy, I knew some of the events that would happen in this book, and OMG, the anxiety! I read with a sense of dread, knowing what was coming, and though I knew it would hurt, I still wasn’t ready.
“She hates me as she loves me. Wholly and completely. Sari never does anything by halves.”
But the separation! OMG, whyyyyyyy? It seemed so unfair, and I was so mad, mostly at Sari, for letting it go on for so long. I could understand the reasoning behind it, but in a world where mates are sacred, and having lost so much, it just felt wrong in so many ways, and I was so frustrated. It made me feel like their love wasn’t strong enough for all that they’d been through, and it’s not what I wanted for these two.
Happy times do come though, and I loved seeing their reunion and where their story goes next. The Irin world is forever changed, and they’re navigating it as best they can, and I loved seeing them work through it and create a new life together.
“I can wander the world for the rest of my life. The only home I need is you.”
With the overlap from earlier books, we get to see all of the characters again, and there’s some good set-up there for more spin-offs, and I’m looking forward to reading more about these characters and this world.
I listened to this as an audiobook, narrated by Jay Britton, and my thoughts are mixed. While I think he did a good job with the story, the way he voiced Damien was really off-putting for me. It was so unnecessarily gruff with not enough emotion (and don’t get me started on his Malachi voice!). I think I may have enjoyed this one more if I had actually read it.
I did enjoy this book – though not the epic emotional romance I was hoping for, it’s still a good read.
3.5 stars.
July 13, 2016
This story really did show what an incredible author Elizabeth is. From writing emotional roller coaster stories that make you smile, laugh and cry to her ability to write overlapping whole scenes that took place in other books and adding more details and elements to make them new without ruining the integrity of the original scene. It’s incredible to read. Though I will say that I minded when the story jumped a little but I was filling in the blanks with what I knew had already happened at that point from her other stories (The Singer and The Secret) so it was ok. Elizabeth's world building skills are out of this world. She is truly one of my favorite authors for that alone. There are just some authors that you read their stories and that’s the long and the short of it and then there are authors that immerse you and transform you into their world and you can’t help but be in awe and you fall in love with and root for their characters until the very end. And when it’s over your feel a little lost and disorientated because suddenly the story ended and your back in the real world when you really want to stay immersed in story you just left behind. Anyway that is Elizabeth Hunter’s writing at least for me and I thought this story really showcased her incredible writing skills. So much hard work went into this story and it shows. Thank you Elizabeth for all your hard work in bring us both Damien and Sari story and the Irin history. I am so appreciative of your hard work and feel honored to have received an ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
The Staff and The Blade is comprised of four stories; Dreams, Ghosts, Memories and Visions. The stories span over a few centuries and each story focuses on an important and pivotal moment in Damien and Sari’s lives.
“Dreams” is Damien and Sari’s love story or at least as close to a love story as you can get with these two. They are not a fluffy romantic couple by any means but they do have their moments and those moments are beautiful. Damien and Sari are actually a lot alike. They are both warriors in their own rights, live fiercely and protect those they love. They are both playful and yet challenge each other in many ways and push each other’s buttons to the breaking point. There is a lot of give and take in their relationship. Sometimes it’s balanced and other times it’s not. They are equals who will fight beside each other and back to back in many cases.
I warn you now “Ghosts” is leading up to and including the Rending I had a very hard time reading this. I had a very good idea about what was coming having read the first three books in the Irin Chronicles. It was still very hard and I had to take some breaks. I cried for the fictional lives lost. But I did like learning what really happened leading up to the Rending even if it was hard to read. You have to see what these characters went through and overcame to really understand them…to understand their choices and their relationships.
“Memories” takes place six years after the Rending. This story contains the aftermath of the Rending and the characters are trying to move on. I promise it’s not all grieving and that it gets better. Sari becomes the badass that we know and love in this part of the story. She is not just the outspoken and fierce woman she once was once upon a time. She is a survivor and a protector. The Irina we first met in “The Singer” make their appearances and we get their back stories.
“Visions” takes place two years after “The Secret.” The Irin and Irina’s are still recovering and reeling from events that took place in “The Secret.” And with the Keresta being introduced to the Irin world the council has its hands full. Damien and Sari are back together, kicking asses and hunting together. Their next hunt leads them to Rekaves to hunt down a Fallen. This story ended in a good place for everyone involved. Damien and Sari have their HEA and they are still fighting the good fight for the Irina and the Keresta just in different ways now.
I really did love this story. I loved watching Damien and Sari's relationship unfold and getting to know them better. I loved that Damien wanted Sari fighting beside him instead of hiding out somewhere. I also liked that they never tried to change each other. They accepted each other for whom they were and accepted each other’s faults. I had been curious about Sari and her and Damien’s relationship since reading “The Singer” and this story answered so many questions. Damien and Sari’s relationship was so different from Malachi and Ava’s but I expected it would be. I went in knowing that Damien and Sari had a history and rocky one at that. I image their relationship was very hard to write. They are not the typical romantic characters and so their story shouldn’t have been the typical romance story. But I really had no idea what their histories held. So much hurt and lost colored their lives. I know it’s a fictional history but I found the Irin history really interesting as well as their society even if it did frustrate me. I loved getting the back stories of some of my favorite Scribes and Singers. It was nice to see them again and catch up with them. I even enjoyed that Elizabeth dropped us some teasers as possibilities in the future that I hope she writes some of them. Despite being an emotional ride I really liked the Staff and the Blade.
The Staff and The Blade is comprised of four stories; Dreams, Ghosts, Memories and Visions. The stories span over a few centuries and each story focuses on an important and pivotal moment in Damien and Sari’s lives.
“Dreams” is Damien and Sari’s love story or at least as close to a love story as you can get with these two. They are not a fluffy romantic couple by any means but they do have their moments and those moments are beautiful. Damien and Sari are actually a lot alike. They are both warriors in their own rights, live fiercely and protect those they love. They are both playful and yet challenge each other in many ways and push each other’s buttons to the breaking point. There is a lot of give and take in their relationship. Sometimes it’s balanced and other times it’s not. They are equals who will fight beside each other and back to back in many cases.
I warn you now “Ghosts” is leading up to and including the Rending I had a very hard time reading this. I had a very good idea about what was coming having read the first three books in the Irin Chronicles. It was still very hard and I had to take some breaks. I cried for the fictional lives lost. But I did like learning what really happened leading up to the Rending even if it was hard to read. You have to see what these characters went through and overcame to really understand them…to understand their choices and their relationships.
“Memories” takes place six years after the Rending. This story contains the aftermath of the Rending and the characters are trying to move on. I promise it’s not all grieving and that it gets better. Sari becomes the badass that we know and love in this part of the story. She is not just the outspoken and fierce woman she once was once upon a time. She is a survivor and a protector. The Irina we first met in “The Singer” make their appearances and we get their back stories.
“Visions” takes place two years after “The Secret.” The Irin and Irina’s are still recovering and reeling from events that took place in “The Secret.” And with the Keresta being introduced to the Irin world the council has its hands full. Damien and Sari are back together, kicking asses and hunting together. Their next hunt leads them to Rekaves to hunt down a Fallen. This story ended in a good place for everyone involved. Damien and Sari have their HEA and they are still fighting the good fight for the Irina and the Keresta just in different ways now.
I really did love this story. I loved watching Damien and Sari's relationship unfold and getting to know them better. I loved that Damien wanted Sari fighting beside him instead of hiding out somewhere. I also liked that they never tried to change each other. They accepted each other for whom they were and accepted each other’s faults. I had been curious about Sari and her and Damien’s relationship since reading “The Singer” and this story answered so many questions. Damien and Sari’s relationship was so different from Malachi and Ava’s but I expected it would be. I went in knowing that Damien and Sari had a history and rocky one at that. I image their relationship was very hard to write. They are not the typical romantic characters and so their story shouldn’t have been the typical romance story. But I really had no idea what their histories held. So much hurt and lost colored their lives. I know it’s a fictional history but I found the Irin history really interesting as well as their society even if it did frustrate me. I loved getting the back stories of some of my favorite Scribes and Singers. It was nice to see them again and catch up with them. I even enjoyed that Elizabeth dropped us some teasers as possibilities in the future that I hope she writes some of them. Despite being an emotional ride I really liked the Staff and the Blade.
July 12, 2016
First let me say, I was given an ARC of The Staff and the Blade for an honest review.
I'm not actually sure where to begin with this review. I am a huge fan of all things Elizabeth Hunter, so when I got a chance to get my hands on this book I was over the moon. To begin, this is the fourth book in the Irin Chronicles series and it is a massive book, that only made me happier as I can't get enough of devouring her words. This is Damien and Sari's story. A while ago Ms. Hunter sent out an email about wanting to write another book in this series and if she did who would we want to read about, I was all about these two. In the first 3 books we get a taste of the multidimensional relationship that is Sarien..or maybe you like Damari?? So many parts of their story were hidden in the dark and we were left to wonder at the why's of the past and the possibilities of their future. Well, no more my Irin loving friends!!
This book was breathtaking. I cried, laughed, cried some more and at times I wanted to throw my kindle when I got frustrated at the stubbornness and pigheadedness of these two. Don't worry, my kindle remains unharmed. The strength that these two have had to find in their lives is unbelievable. I was so pleased when I began this book and started off at the beginning of the love story that begins to bloom between Damien and Sari. We get to see how they were in the beginning, untainted by future events, so that we can understand where we meet them in the original books. Their love is fierce and all consuming, as with all things that these to do. I love how Sari is so strong, she is a force to be reckoned with from day one and I love a strong female lead. As the book came up to The Rending my heart clenched. Just knowing (if you've read the other books) what was coming from the stories that were told in The Scribe had my chest hurting, the tears were primed and ready. But reading it, and seeing what happened to both the Irin and the Irina was so tragic. It really helped me understand why things remained the same for so long between both sides of the Irin and Irina people. It was neat to see a different side of things from when Ava came to Sarhiforn. To see what happened between Damien and Sari in the stolen moments, and the struggle to fight their way back to each other was yet another layer of their story that settled into place for me, making me fall that much more in love with them.
I love that they fight for each other as much as they fight each other. Their love was never an easy thing, Damien truly found his equal in Sari. The last part of this book takes place a couple of years after the ending of The Secret in Vienna. We see how the Irin world, as well as the Kareshta/Grigori world is quickly changing, and there is no more black and white, good and evil anymore. I am excited, and I mean soooooooo excited that there were some open ending stories for some of the other Irin Scribes, and I will be so very greedy when those stories come out someday. No cliff hangers, just a whisper of a promise of some more Irin possibly finding love!! Hooray!! I look forward to seeing how Damien and Sari are adjusting to their new living situation and the decisions that they will make for their personal lives. I'm so glad they have chosen a new path for their lives that will suit them and doesn't bend to the council. Screw that damn council, they are nothing but trouble! I really can not say enough wonderful amazing things about this book. It was so magical and beautiful, it completely consumed me each time I had a moment to get lost in the words. I definitely give it 5 Stars!!
I'm not actually sure where to begin with this review. I am a huge fan of all things Elizabeth Hunter, so when I got a chance to get my hands on this book I was over the moon. To begin, this is the fourth book in the Irin Chronicles series and it is a massive book, that only made me happier as I can't get enough of devouring her words. This is Damien and Sari's story. A while ago Ms. Hunter sent out an email about wanting to write another book in this series and if she did who would we want to read about, I was all about these two. In the first 3 books we get a taste of the multidimensional relationship that is Sarien..or maybe you like Damari?? So many parts of their story were hidden in the dark and we were left to wonder at the why's of the past and the possibilities of their future. Well, no more my Irin loving friends!!
This book was breathtaking. I cried, laughed, cried some more and at times I wanted to throw my kindle when I got frustrated at the stubbornness and pigheadedness of these two. Don't worry, my kindle remains unharmed. The strength that these two have had to find in their lives is unbelievable. I was so pleased when I began this book and started off at the beginning of the love story that begins to bloom between Damien and Sari. We get to see how they were in the beginning, untainted by future events, so that we can understand where we meet them in the original books. Their love is fierce and all consuming, as with all things that these to do. I love how Sari is so strong, she is a force to be reckoned with from day one and I love a strong female lead. As the book came up to The Rending my heart clenched. Just knowing (if you've read the other books) what was coming from the stories that were told in The Scribe had my chest hurting, the tears were primed and ready. But reading it, and seeing what happened to both the Irin and the Irina was so tragic. It really helped me understand why things remained the same for so long between both sides of the Irin and Irina people. It was neat to see a different side of things from when Ava came to Sarhiforn. To see what happened between Damien and Sari in the stolen moments, and the struggle to fight their way back to each other was yet another layer of their story that settled into place for me, making me fall that much more in love with them.
I love that they fight for each other as much as they fight each other. Their love was never an easy thing, Damien truly found his equal in Sari. The last part of this book takes place a couple of years after the ending of The Secret in Vienna. We see how the Irin world, as well as the Kareshta/Grigori world is quickly changing, and there is no more black and white, good and evil anymore. I am excited, and I mean soooooooo excited that there were some open ending stories for some of the other Irin Scribes, and I will be so very greedy when those stories come out someday. No cliff hangers, just a whisper of a promise of some more Irin possibly finding love!! Hooray!! I look forward to seeing how Damien and Sari are adjusting to their new living situation and the decisions that they will make for their personal lives. I'm so glad they have chosen a new path for their lives that will suit them and doesn't bend to the council. Screw that damn council, they are nothing but trouble! I really can not say enough wonderful amazing things about this book. It was so magical and beautiful, it completely consumed me each time I had a moment to get lost in the words. I definitely give it 5 Stars!!
July 12, 2016
This is one of the best fantasy books I've read. Ever. Full stop.
"The Staff and the Blade" is the fourth book in Elizabeth Hunter's "Irin Chronicles." The first book in the series - "The Scribe" - is the very first book I read of Ms. Hunter's...it was totally my gateway book. I've not regretted a Hunter moment since.
The Review
This review is one of the hardest I've ever written. Not for the usual reasons (those being that I'm really searching for the nice bread in the criticism sandwich), but because this book was so very good that I'm not sure how to really do it justice.
BUT, since I've already started this post (about a hundred times), I might as well give you my thoughts.
I received this book as an ARC a few weeks ago because Elizabeth is awesome that way. I tore through it in one sitting, going seriously short of sleep that day (a fact that the author does not seem to feel badly about at all).
I knew from the opening scenes that Elizabeth wasn't going to go easy on my emotions. It's a story of unbelievable pain and loss and violence and tragedy and yes - the occasional stubborn idiocy. I'm not going to lie, people. There were times that I wanted to step into the book and give the main characters a good shake (or maybe a swift kick in the pants).
This is more than just an epic love story. This is also a tale of some epic grudge holding (albeit somewhat justifiably).
Sari is still new to her role as official Singer for the Irin when she meets Damien - a warrior with more than a couple of centuries under his belt. They're not new characters, so anyone's who's read the series has a general idea of what's going on with them, but the opportunity to delve into their relationship, into their feelings, and into their reactions to the events that shape not only them and their love, but their entire people is priceless.
I was a little concerned that Sari would be an unsympathetic character (my worries were fed from outside), but in my mind, her reactions were justified and Damien was the one who needed the larger ass kicking. Fortunately for him, his beloved is not only willing, but able to provide it.
Reading through the Rending was heart-breaking. I felt for each and every person going through that in a way that hadn't been quite real when it was presented as a past even in the earlier books.
The universe that Elizabeth Hunter has spun for Damien and Sari (and Ava and Malachi and the rest) is intricate and wonderful and perfectly balanced. There is never a jarring detail that pulls me back out of my willing suspension of disbelief. She looks closely at the flaws and the virtues to create well-balanced, realistic, and not always 100% likeable characters. This is a gift not given to every author and watching it unfold (and get better with each book) is marvelous thing for a reader.
The Verdict
Five hundred stars. My only real complaint is that I cannot read it again for the first time. When I finished, I was bereft. Now I'm jealous of every one of you who gets to experience the tumultuous lives of Damien and Sari for the first time.
"The Staff and the Blade" is the fourth book in Elizabeth Hunter's "Irin Chronicles." The first book in the series - "The Scribe" - is the very first book I read of Ms. Hunter's...it was totally my gateway book. I've not regretted a Hunter moment since.
The Review
This review is one of the hardest I've ever written. Not for the usual reasons (those being that I'm really searching for the nice bread in the criticism sandwich), but because this book was so very good that I'm not sure how to really do it justice.
BUT, since I've already started this post (about a hundred times), I might as well give you my thoughts.
I received this book as an ARC a few weeks ago because Elizabeth is awesome that way. I tore through it in one sitting, going seriously short of sleep that day (a fact that the author does not seem to feel badly about at all).
I knew from the opening scenes that Elizabeth wasn't going to go easy on my emotions. It's a story of unbelievable pain and loss and violence and tragedy and yes - the occasional stubborn idiocy. I'm not going to lie, people. There were times that I wanted to step into the book and give the main characters a good shake (or maybe a swift kick in the pants).
This is more than just an epic love story. This is also a tale of some epic grudge holding (albeit somewhat justifiably).
Sari is still new to her role as official Singer for the Irin when she meets Damien - a warrior with more than a couple of centuries under his belt. They're not new characters, so anyone's who's read the series has a general idea of what's going on with them, but the opportunity to delve into their relationship, into their feelings, and into their reactions to the events that shape not only them and their love, but their entire people is priceless.
I was a little concerned that Sari would be an unsympathetic character (my worries were fed from outside), but in my mind, her reactions were justified and Damien was the one who needed the larger ass kicking. Fortunately for him, his beloved is not only willing, but able to provide it.
Reading through the Rending was heart-breaking. I felt for each and every person going through that in a way that hadn't been quite real when it was presented as a past even in the earlier books.
The universe that Elizabeth Hunter has spun for Damien and Sari (and Ava and Malachi and the rest) is intricate and wonderful and perfectly balanced. There is never a jarring detail that pulls me back out of my willing suspension of disbelief. She looks closely at the flaws and the virtues to create well-balanced, realistic, and not always 100% likeable characters. This is a gift not given to every author and watching it unfold (and get better with each book) is marvelous thing for a reader.
The Verdict
Five hundred stars. My only real complaint is that I cannot read it again for the first time. When I finished, I was bereft. Now I'm jealous of every one of you who gets to experience the tumultuous lives of Damien and Sari for the first time.
July 17, 2016
I have loved this series. Absolutely loved it. The very idea of soul mates...beings who are actually adept at clearly identifying their soul mates...it is incredibly romantic. My heart literally squeezes in my chest when I read how each of these couples discover one another. This particular installment contained the history of the remarkable relationship of two of the most fascinating characters, Damien and Sari. As the Watcher, Damien has served as the leader of our Irin characters. Sari has taken the role of leader and guardian for the Irina. Damien and Sari are equals as warriors and leaders. That is to say, they are Fierce! Their story had All of Everything. The revelations of their beginning were breathtakingly romantic and incredibly heartbreaking. The discovery was magical, but the journey included moments of devastation that wrought a torrent of tears from this reader. I felt my way through this story with All of Everything in me. That happens with just about every Elizabeth Hunter book. She creates worlds and characters and builds a story that has the reader completely captivated. I loved Sari the most. No, I loved Damien the most. No...well, this will be going on as I reflect on The Staff and the Blade; and, as I return to re-read this beautiful novel again and again!
All of the details (and there are SO MANY!) show just how much research has gone into this work. The life experiences and travels of this author translate into a story that has no moments that scream Public Service Announcement Ahead or Let Me Tell You Just How Much I Know. Ms. Hunter seamlessly adds dashes of vocabulary and history and geography. All of these details enrich the story. Every one of the books in The Irin Chronicles has felt like a collection of gorgeous oil paintings. I could look at one all day and still find nuances that I may have missed at first glance. I keep looking.
All of the details (and there are SO MANY!) show just how much research has gone into this work. The life experiences and travels of this author translate into a story that has no moments that scream Public Service Announcement Ahead or Let Me Tell You Just How Much I Know. Ms. Hunter seamlessly adds dashes of vocabulary and history and geography. All of these details enrich the story. Every one of the books in The Irin Chronicles has felt like a collection of gorgeous oil paintings. I could look at one all day and still find nuances that I may have missed at first glance. I keep looking.
July 11, 2016
“I received an ARC for review courtesy of the author. This is an honest, unpaid review and my opinions are my own.”
“In order to know where you’re going, you’ve got to understand where you’ve been.” I’m not sure if this is a direct quote that I’ve heard before, or if I just made it up, but regardless, it’s very fitting for The Staff and the Blade.
Damien and Sari. *sigh* Throughout the Irin Chronicles series, we’ve heard bits and pieces of their union and how essential it was in Irin history. We’ve read how the relationship of these two powerful mates; these two equals ended. But, exactly how did it begin? What drew a young singer to a hardened and weary warrior?
The Staff and the Blade is an emotional ride, filled with action and a romance for the ages. This was a mesmerizing read, filled with everything that caused me to fall in love with the world of the Irin, plus rich and sometimes heartbreaking details of how Damien and Sari became the pillars that they are known to be now. Readers will come to understand why these two are the way they are and that true love, true mates, true reshons, although divided by distance, rage, violence, and grief, can never be ignored. Although bonds may stretch taut and to their limits, fate and destiny usually have other ideas and are not easily disregarded.
The Staff and the Blade is the fourth book in the Irin Chronicles. I adore anything, Elizabeth Hunter writes and I've pre-ordered this book. As usual, I’m looking forward to whatever else Ms. Hunter has up her magical, pen-toting sleeve.
“In order to know where you’re going, you’ve got to understand where you’ve been.” I’m not sure if this is a direct quote that I’ve heard before, or if I just made it up, but regardless, it’s very fitting for The Staff and the Blade.
Damien and Sari. *sigh* Throughout the Irin Chronicles series, we’ve heard bits and pieces of their union and how essential it was in Irin history. We’ve read how the relationship of these two powerful mates; these two equals ended. But, exactly how did it begin? What drew a young singer to a hardened and weary warrior?
The Staff and the Blade is an emotional ride, filled with action and a romance for the ages. This was a mesmerizing read, filled with everything that caused me to fall in love with the world of the Irin, plus rich and sometimes heartbreaking details of how Damien and Sari became the pillars that they are known to be now. Readers will come to understand why these two are the way they are and that true love, true mates, true reshons, although divided by distance, rage, violence, and grief, can never be ignored. Although bonds may stretch taut and to their limits, fate and destiny usually have other ideas and are not easily disregarded.
The Staff and the Blade is the fourth book in the Irin Chronicles. I adore anything, Elizabeth Hunter writes and I've pre-ordered this book. As usual, I’m looking forward to whatever else Ms. Hunter has up her magical, pen-toting sleeve.
July 13, 2016
I was anxious to read the story of Sari and Damien. I didn't know how the story would play out but of course Mrs Hunter played it beautifully.
I love the way the story started before they knew each other. How they slowly got to know each other. How their love became explosive once they did.
I'm happy that we get to meet Tala and her mate Alexandr. How we live through their story too. How important they truly were to the story line and how the death of Tala is deeply felt by both Sari and Damien.
With most books that the stories overlap they have the tendency to be redundant. Well not with this one. The timeline follows the other books but the story is focused more on what we didn't see behind the scenes.
It ripped my heart in two to see Damien being left time after time by a hurting Sari. So many things had been so misunderstood between them. One blaming the other for not being there.
Finally when Damien has his breakdown and finally tells Sari how he felt all these years. About what happened at the ambush. How he was not there to protect anyone. Not Sari not Tala and not their baby. The scene so emotionally charged that I broke down too.
This book has all your emotions out of whack throughout the book. You'll be laughing one minute and the other you'll be bawling your heart out.
This author has a beautiful way about her writing. She doesn't just write a story she takes you along to feel it with her.
Amazing ... Just amazing!!
I love the way the story started before they knew each other. How they slowly got to know each other. How their love became explosive once they did.
I'm happy that we get to meet Tala and her mate Alexandr. How we live through their story too. How important they truly were to the story line and how the death of Tala is deeply felt by both Sari and Damien.
With most books that the stories overlap they have the tendency to be redundant. Well not with this one. The timeline follows the other books but the story is focused more on what we didn't see behind the scenes.
It ripped my heart in two to see Damien being left time after time by a hurting Sari. So many things had been so misunderstood between them. One blaming the other for not being there.
Finally when Damien has his breakdown and finally tells Sari how he felt all these years. About what happened at the ambush. How he was not there to protect anyone. Not Sari not Tala and not their baby. The scene so emotionally charged that I broke down too.
This book has all your emotions out of whack throughout the book. You'll be laughing one minute and the other you'll be bawling your heart out.
This author has a beautiful way about her writing. She doesn't just write a story she takes you along to feel it with her.
Amazing ... Just amazing!!
October 28, 2016
I loved this book! The series is phenomenal. It is an epic story of love, angst, tragedy and triumph told over a period of hundreds of years. In my humble opinion only, I do not feel it is a stand-alone book as it is marketed to be. It is the fourth story in The Irin Chronicles. I think it is advantageous to read one through three before reading The Staff and The Blade. Damien and Sari both are in the first three books and you get some good hints as to what happens to them. But, this world is complex and it helps to have an understanding of the various types of angels and offspring and the various points of view of characters in the world before reading Damien and Sari's story. As a matter of fact, at one point, I went back to books 2 and 3 and re-read some of the notes/highlights I had made on my Kindle. This story is complex and spectacular and I will visit this world anytime the author wants to go there. I hope for many more stories in this series.
July 27, 2016
The Staff and the Blade is book four in the Irin Chronicles Series and, in my opinion, is the best one so far. It is an epic story of war, magic, love and pain that spans different worlds and several centuries.
The Staff and the Blade comes in four parts and is not necessarily an easy book to read. You should expect pain and violence, but also a love so strong that survives all obstacles. It is cleverly inter-weaved with the previous three books but can be perfectly read as a stand alone story (though if you love the genre, you should not miss the first three books anyway).
Elizabeth Hunter is truly a master storyteller and creates compelling plots and characters that grab the attention of readers, even those that, like me, do not read paranormal fiction regularly. Totally recommended.
The Staff and the Blade comes in four parts and is not necessarily an easy book to read. You should expect pain and violence, but also a love so strong that survives all obstacles. It is cleverly inter-weaved with the previous three books but can be perfectly read as a stand alone story (though if you love the genre, you should not miss the first three books anyway).
Elizabeth Hunter is truly a master storyteller and creates compelling plots and characters that grab the attention of readers, even those that, like me, do not read paranormal fiction regularly. Totally recommended.
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