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The Blades of Acktar #3.5
Destroy
Before the war, before the Blades, before the Leader…
There was a boy and a scullery maid and a secret shame.
One moonlit night of blood and knives destroyed their country and their lives forever.
The Leader failed to die, but will he also fail to lead?
There was a boy and a scullery maid and a secret shame.
One moonlit night of blood and knives destroyed their country and their lives forever.
The Leader failed to die, but will he also fail to lead?
185 pages, ebook
Published December 30, 2016
27 people are currently reading
243 people want to read
About the author
Tricia Mingerink
12 books451 followersTricia Mingerink is a twenty-something, book-loving, horse-riding country girl. She lives in Michigan with her family and their pack of pets. When she isn't writing, she can be found pursuing backwoods adventures across the country.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
December 28, 2021
// Original // This was amazing. I am so happy right now. I NEED DELIVER SO BAAADDDDD!!!!! XD
*ahem* Decent review to come.
// Updated //
(Minor spoilers if you haven't read books 1-3.)
First off, I have three things to point out about this book. I loved it, it was amazing, and I need Deliver (book four) NOOOWWWW.
*ahem* Okay, so this book in The Blades of Acktar is a novella that goes between book three (Defy) and book four (Deliver).
I wasn't sure what to expect going into it (I mean, no Leith and Renna for the most part?!) but I shouldn't have worried. As usual, Ms. Mingerink has crafted an amazing story that will stir your heart. The Christian messages bled through so well, and the story was superbly done all the way around.
When I met the Leader in Defy, I wasn't sure what to think of him. I certainly had reasons not to like him (LEITH!!!), but he was also saving Renna from something she dreaded terribly. I can happily say this book changed the way I looked at him. And Addie! She was so sweet! I absolutely loved their relationship... <3 *huggles charrie*
So yes. This book tore my heart out and ripped it to shreds (nothing new with TBOA but totally worth mentioning) and showered me with feels. Amazing. <3
**I received a free e-ARC of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review.**
*ahem* Decent review to come.
// Updated //
(Minor spoilers if you haven't read books 1-3.)
First off, I have three things to point out about this book. I loved it, it was amazing, and I need Deliver (book four) NOOOWWWW.
*ahem* Okay, so this book in The Blades of Acktar is a novella that goes between book three (Defy) and book four (Deliver).
I wasn't sure what to expect going into it (I mean, no Leith and Renna for the most part?!) but I shouldn't have worried. As usual, Ms. Mingerink has crafted an amazing story that will stir your heart. The Christian messages bled through so well, and the story was superbly done all the way around.
When I met the Leader in Defy, I wasn't sure what to think of him. I certainly had reasons not to like him (LEITH!!!), but he was also saving Renna from something she dreaded terribly. I can happily say this book changed the way I looked at him. And Addie! She was so sweet! I absolutely loved their relationship... <3 *huggles charrie*
So yes. This book tore my heart out and ripped it to shreds (nothing new with TBOA but totally worth mentioning) and showered me with feels. Amazing. <3
**I received a free e-ARC of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review.**
Read
June 23, 2020Author Guide:
I would rate all of my books PG-13 for the level of blood and violence. PG on sexual stuff.
- similar amount of blood and violence as the other Blades of Acktar books
- Keevan's struggles aren't Leith's struggles. Keevan struggles with a wild past that involved a lot of flirting, kissing, and drinking. Some mentions of that and his struggle to be better, themes of consent, etc. are brought up in the book. It is done as vaguely as possible, so younger readers probably won't catch what is happening and older readers will think it mild. The first chapter is about the worst it gets, which is free to read through Amazon's preview feature if anyone has concerns before reading.
I would rate all of my books PG-13 for the level of blood and violence. PG on sexual stuff.
- similar amount of blood and violence as the other Blades of Acktar books
- Keevan's struggles aren't Leith's struggles. Keevan struggles with a wild past that involved a lot of flirting, kissing, and drinking. Some mentions of that and his struggle to be better, themes of consent, etc. are brought up in the book. It is done as vaguely as possible, so younger readers probably won't catch what is happening and older readers will think it mild. The first chapter is about the worst it gets, which is free to read through Amazon's preview feature if anyone has concerns before reading.
December 30, 2016
GAH!!! I did not expect the amount of emotions that I would get from this book. The feels were so good.
Prince Keevan has spent most of his younger years following in his older brother's, Aengus's, footsteps. He's spent time getting drunk and "having fun" with some maids. His father never punished him. Only when his uncle shows him the reality of his sins does he begin to understand the consequences that his choices could have, only then does he start to feel the guilt of what he's done. He's glad that he will never have to rule, because he is not fit to rule, he's weak. Adelaide is a scullery maid in Nagar Castle. She's heard the rumors about the older princes. She's scared, but determined to never get caught alone with either of them. She could never imagine herself being anything more than what she already is: a scullery maid, like her ancestors before her. But on a night of blood shed that tears the kingdom apart, their world changes forever.
Keevan, oh how my view has changed of him. I remember finding him interesting and creepy, but I hated some of the choices he made. Now I understand him. So while I may not have liked some of the decisions he made, I understand where he came from and why he made those decisions. It makes so much more sense now. He's made mistakes. He want to grow, to learn, and to trust, but his guilt and fear holds him back. He doesn't think that he can be the man he needs to be to lead. His struggle is so painful, mentally. Adelaide was so sweet. She thinks so little of herself. She can't stand blood. She is not a healer. She's not very helpful in any of those areas useful for a war. But she is always ready to help, even those whom she doesn't like at all. She has a lot of determination and a willing heart. To me, I will say she felt a tiny bit flat, but it was barely noticeable since I was so engrossed in the story. I loved their relationship. The way they talked to each was so sweet.
I was swept into this wonderful world right from the start. This story covers from before the first book until right after the third book, so it was very fast paced. It jumped a couple years or less about three or four times. That made it a tiny bit choppy, but there was no way to smooth it out any more than the author did unless it was made into a full novel. So it was a great surprise to see how smooth this actually was.
The plot was pretty intense and so fast. I knew a lot of what was going to happen, since the book does cover some of the same areas that the other books did, but it was really exciting to see it from a different point of view. So knowing some of the plot didn't take that much away from the story for me. There were a couple battles, but I thought the most intense parts was everything that led up to the battles. All that stress and worry over so many important decisions that had to made was intense.
This was a great short story. One of the best short stories I've read, in fact. I wish that it was longer just because I love this series so much, but it worked perfectly the way that it was. I just can't wait for the next book!
Prince Keevan has spent most of his younger years following in his older brother's, Aengus's, footsteps. He's spent time getting drunk and "having fun" with some maids. His father never punished him. Only when his uncle shows him the reality of his sins does he begin to understand the consequences that his choices could have, only then does he start to feel the guilt of what he's done. He's glad that he will never have to rule, because he is not fit to rule, he's weak. Adelaide is a scullery maid in Nagar Castle. She's heard the rumors about the older princes. She's scared, but determined to never get caught alone with either of them. She could never imagine herself being anything more than what she already is: a scullery maid, like her ancestors before her. But on a night of blood shed that tears the kingdom apart, their world changes forever.
Keevan, oh how my view has changed of him. I remember finding him interesting and creepy, but I hated some of the choices he made. Now I understand him. So while I may not have liked some of the decisions he made, I understand where he came from and why he made those decisions. It makes so much more sense now. He's made mistakes. He want to grow, to learn, and to trust, but his guilt and fear holds him back. He doesn't think that he can be the man he needs to be to lead. His struggle is so painful, mentally. Adelaide was so sweet. She thinks so little of herself. She can't stand blood. She is not a healer. She's not very helpful in any of those areas useful for a war. But she is always ready to help, even those whom she doesn't like at all. She has a lot of determination and a willing heart. To me, I will say she felt a tiny bit flat, but it was barely noticeable since I was so engrossed in the story. I loved their relationship. The way they talked to each was so sweet.
I was swept into this wonderful world right from the start. This story covers from before the first book until right after the third book, so it was very fast paced. It jumped a couple years or less about three or four times. That made it a tiny bit choppy, but there was no way to smooth it out any more than the author did unless it was made into a full novel. So it was a great surprise to see how smooth this actually was.
The plot was pretty intense and so fast. I knew a lot of what was going to happen, since the book does cover some of the same areas that the other books did, but it was really exciting to see it from a different point of view. So knowing some of the plot didn't take that much away from the story for me. There were a couple battles, but I thought the most intense parts was everything that led up to the battles. All that stress and worry over so many important decisions that had to made was intense.
This was a great short story. One of the best short stories I've read, in fact. I wish that it was longer just because I love this series so much, but it worked perfectly the way that it was. I just can't wait for the next book!
January 2, 2017
i have no idea how there's so much feels in just a novella! so good!
February 2, 2017
Okay, this book was amazing. I wasn't sure what to expect, but I was looking forward to stepping back into Ackter. Though would it be different without Leith and Renna? I wasn't sure.
Well, I shouldn't have wondered. It was AMAZING! I so enjoyed getting to see the other side of a character that we met in... Defy, I think it was? It was interesting to start at the beginning, before King Respen took over, to the present state Acktar is in now. The character growth was well done, though I did feel that a few times, Leith and Keevan had a bit too similar of stories/conflicts.
There were times I wished the book was longer, and not skipping so many years, but It all worked well.
All in all it was a wonderful story, and if you're a fan of Acktar, you need to read it!
So yes. Now I need Deliver. xD
Well, I shouldn't have wondered. It was AMAZING! I so enjoyed getting to see the other side of a character that we met in... Defy, I think it was? It was interesting to start at the beginning, before King Respen took over, to the present state Acktar is in now. The character growth was well done, though I did feel that a few times, Leith and Keevan had a bit too similar of stories/conflicts.
There were times I wished the book was longer, and not skipping so many years, but It all worked well.
All in all it was a wonderful story, and if you're a fan of Acktar, you need to read it!
So yes. Now I need Deliver. xD
June 30, 2019
reread june 2019
<3 <3.
original review / february 2019
/ trying to resist the urge to reread the Blades of Acktar series (as i literally just read them a month ago.)
<3 <3.
original review / february 2019
/ trying to resist the urge to reread the Blades of Acktar series (as i literally just read them a month ago.)
Want to read
December 17, 2020How did I not know about this book until now? I need to read it. Because unlike most, I liked Keevan and never once blamed him for despising the man who tried to murder him in the middle of the night.
April 8, 2019
I love this series. <3
December 30, 2016
As any good fan of a series, I love getting to read backstory. Even if it's on a character that wasn't exactly my favorite in the series. :) So when I got the chance to be an early reader for this novella, I jumped at the chance.
Keevan was not universally liked in Defy, but you got enough of a feel for him in that book that you could understand where he was coming from. But still. So this novella was a great way to see what made the Leader what he is. We start with a look at a young Keevan doing something he'll regret for years, but he already starts changing as a character. Then we get an up close and personal look at the night that Respen takes over Acktar, and a not so nice glimpse of a favorite character. From there it flips back and forth between Keevan and the young serving girl who saves his life. There's several skips forward in time as there's about six-ish years to get covered all the way up to the end of the events in book 3.
I enjoyed getting to see Keevan continue to grow and make his own decisions. He wasn't my favorite character in Defy, but really I couldn't fault him for some of his decisions, but now it's even clearer where he's coming from. This story really helped flesh out some of the gaps from the series and we get a better look at the Resistance.
We get a few glimpses of other characters from the series, and it's interesting to see them from an unfamiliar viewpoint. I enjoyed the new characters we get introduced to, especially Addie. The relationship between her and Keevan was great and they were a little bit adorable. :)
Obviously recommended for anyone who's a fan of the series!
*I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review*
Keevan was not universally liked in Defy, but you got enough of a feel for him in that book that you could understand where he was coming from. But still. So this novella was a great way to see what made the Leader what he is. We start with a look at a young Keevan doing something he'll regret for years, but he already starts changing as a character. Then we get an up close and personal look at the night that Respen takes over Acktar, and a not so nice glimpse of a favorite character. From there it flips back and forth between Keevan and the young serving girl who saves his life. There's several skips forward in time as there's about six-ish years to get covered all the way up to the end of the events in book 3.
I enjoyed getting to see Keevan continue to grow and make his own decisions. He wasn't my favorite character in Defy, but really I couldn't fault him for some of his decisions, but now it's even clearer where he's coming from. This story really helped flesh out some of the gaps from the series and we get a better look at the Resistance.
We get a few glimpses of other characters from the series, and it's interesting to see them from an unfamiliar viewpoint. I enjoyed the new characters we get introduced to, especially Addie. The relationship between her and Keevan was great and they were a little bit adorable. :)
Obviously recommended for anyone who's a fan of the series!
*I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review*
January 12, 2019
So, I feel like I'm probably in the minority with the fact that I didn't really dislike Keevan when we first met him in Defy. I mean, yes, he didn't trust Leith in the beginning and didn't like him in the end, but...it was really hard to blame him, considering the circumstances. And even without all the personal history, he hadn't spent two and a half books getting to know Leith like Shad and Renna and Brandi had. ;)
All that to say, I didn't need this book to sympathize with Keevan's struggles, or to like him as a character, or to respect him as a leader. But I did appreciate these glimpses into both his backstory and some of the events from Defy from his perspective. They certainly deepened my understanding of who he was and the depth of the battles he was winning, both externally and internally.
Because this novella spans so much time, it did feel a just bit disjointed at points, and I'd have loved to spend more time seeing Keevan grow in certain areas rather than skipping ahead so often, but there was a lot of ground to cover, so that's not a major complaint. I really liked the way all the details worked together to make a plausible story that fit so well with all the details that had already been presented in the previous books.
After this book, I can say my respect for Keevan has only increased , and I enjoyed getting to know Addie and her family as well. But even though his role was limited to only a few scenes, Lord Faythe was probably my favorite character in the entire story. I absolutely loved his relationship with Keevan, from the blistering scoldings delivered when necessary to the unreserved compassion extended when needed. That is love. <3 Second favorite is probably Captain/General Stewart; I love his no-nonsense way of giving Keevan the truth and pushing him to grow. :)
Content--talk about girls being kissed in closets and boys pushing them "too far" (no details, but this issue recurs several times as a character deals with shame over his past); mentions of a character trying to control his thoughts about girls; mentions of drinking and other wild behavior; descriptions of wounds, blood, and scars
All that to say, I didn't need this book to sympathize with Keevan's struggles, or to like him as a character, or to respect him as a leader. But I did appreciate these glimpses into both his backstory and some of the events from Defy from his perspective. They certainly deepened my understanding of who he was and the depth of the battles he was winning, both externally and internally.
Because this novella spans so much time, it did feel a just bit disjointed at points, and I'd have loved to spend more time seeing Keevan grow in certain areas rather than skipping ahead so often, but there was a lot of ground to cover, so that's not a major complaint. I really liked the way all the details worked together to make a plausible story that fit so well with all the details that had already been presented in the previous books.
After this book, I can say my respect for Keevan has only increased , and I enjoyed getting to know Addie and her family as well. But even though his role was limited to only a few scenes, Lord Faythe was probably my favorite character in the entire story. I absolutely loved his relationship with Keevan, from the blistering scoldings delivered when necessary to the unreserved compassion extended when needed. That is love. <3 Second favorite is probably Captain/General Stewart; I love his no-nonsense way of giving Keevan the truth and pushing him to grow. :)
Content--talk about girls being kissed in closets and boys pushing them "too far" (no details, but this issue recurs several times as a character deals with shame over his past); mentions of a character trying to control his thoughts about girls; mentions of drinking and other wild behavior; descriptions of wounds, blood, and scars
May 5, 2017
I am so glad I decided to purchase Destroy by Tricia Mingerink! After reading the final book in THE BLADES OF ACKTAR series, I was kind of sad and wondering how to say goodbye to this fantastic Christian fantasy series ... Well, turns out, I didn't have to! Not quite yet! *winks*
In this novella (which should be read after the third book, Defy), we meet Keevn and Addie as POV characters and see the whole story from their eyes ... starting when Keevn was almost killed in the dead of night by a Blade.
I wasn't sure how I'd feel about reading Keevn's story. But I loved it! I think, partly, because Tricia Mingerink just has a way of writing that draws me in! And now I so love Acktar and its people that I want to read every story about them that I can! *grins* But yes, Keevn. I actually did feel for him. My heart ached for him. I came to like him. And, of course, sweet and talkative and strong Addie. I loved seeing how she came into the whole story! Wow! *hugs them both*
Keevn definitely wasn't a perfect character, but that's good. Tricia Mingerink showed his pain and understandable reasons for his actions, while still staying true to his character that we saw in Defy and Deliver. I was impressed by this tale, and touched.
As I mentioned above, Destroy starts, chronologically, before Dare and continues to Defy's end ... and a little beyond that. And it's all seen through Keevn and Addie's eyes. I loved getting this new perspective on the war and all that! The coronation. The arrival of a certain prince. ^_^ (I only wish it would have showed a certain wedding!)
Anyway, it was well-written, interesting, and thought-provoking. I really liked the faith theme; how forgiveness and mercy were woven into the story. It was challenging but heart-touching. I loved seeing more of characters we didn't get a chance to truly meet before. All the backstory ... <3 Even though a good portion was grim and sad, I did love seeing little Renna and Brandi, and watching the happenings set up for Dare's beginning.
So. I understand Keevn better. I got to officially meet Addie. I even laughed a couple times! And talk about character growth! My fellow fans of THE BLADES OF ACKTAR, this #3.5 novella is not to be missed! *smiles*
In this novella (which should be read after the third book, Defy), we meet Keevn and Addie as POV characters and see the whole story from their eyes ... starting when Keevn was almost killed in the dead of night by a Blade.
I wasn't sure how I'd feel about reading Keevn's story. But I loved it! I think, partly, because Tricia Mingerink just has a way of writing that draws me in! And now I so love Acktar and its people that I want to read every story about them that I can! *grins* But yes, Keevn. I actually did feel for him. My heart ached for him. I came to like him. And, of course, sweet and talkative and strong Addie. I loved seeing how she came into the whole story! Wow! *hugs them both*
Keevn definitely wasn't a perfect character, but that's good. Tricia Mingerink showed his pain and understandable reasons for his actions, while still staying true to his character that we saw in Defy and Deliver. I was impressed by this tale, and touched.
As I mentioned above, Destroy starts, chronologically, before Dare and continues to Defy's end ... and a little beyond that. And it's all seen through Keevn and Addie's eyes. I loved getting this new perspective on the war and all that! The coronation. The arrival of a certain prince. ^_^ (I only wish it would have showed a certain wedding!)
Anyway, it was well-written, interesting, and thought-provoking. I really liked the faith theme; how forgiveness and mercy were woven into the story. It was challenging but heart-touching. I loved seeing more of characters we didn't get a chance to truly meet before. All the backstory ... <3 Even though a good portion was grim and sad, I did love seeing little Renna and Brandi, and watching the happenings set up for Dare's beginning.
So. I understand Keevn better. I got to officially meet Addie. I even laughed a couple times! And talk about character growth! My fellow fans of THE BLADES OF ACKTAR, this #3.5 novella is not to be missed! *smiles*
January 31, 2017
**Spoilers for the rest of The Blades of Acktar series**
Also, a rating of 3.5 Stars.
I wasn't sure how I'd like this book - since it's an in-between-er and not about Renna & Leith - but I was quite happily surprised!
You have a huge redemption thing urging along the plot, which made me kind of think that it would be like the other books - just with Keevan instead of Leith, but it wasn't, which was nice. Keevan really struggles with some things that he'd done as a no-consequences prince. The only thing that I really didn't like about that whole story line aspect was that I felt that he saw the errors of his ways a little TOO quickly (but I suppose that you had to shorten things since it WAS a novella).
Anyways. I was also quite thrilled that the romance wasn't EXACTLY like Renna & Leith, though you could definitely see parallels. The romance between Keevan and Addie was quite adorable, really. Especially when you got Addie's elder three brothers (and a younger one) involved... Nothing past kissing, really (though at the beginning there are mentions of how Keevan had forced some maids into kissing him), and it's quite sweet. And I was quite happy that I liked Keevan and Addie together, since I didn't really like either of them at the beginning (though I liked Keevan in book #3).
It was cool seeing main plot points from other books such as the night (or, nights) of the assassins, or when Leith arrived to Eagle Heights, the battle, etc. But, of course, with that comes major time jumps (there were quite a few of year/two year jumps of time), but I think that it just fit with the book.
Anyways, this was quite a nice book and definitely helped stall the anxious waiting for the four and final Acktar book.
Also, a rating of 3.5 Stars.
I wasn't sure how I'd like this book - since it's an in-between-er and not about Renna & Leith - but I was quite happily surprised!
You have a huge redemption thing urging along the plot, which made me kind of think that it would be like the other books - just with Keevan instead of Leith, but it wasn't, which was nice. Keevan really struggles with some things that he'd done as a no-consequences prince. The only thing that I really didn't like about that whole story line aspect was that I felt that he saw the errors of his ways a little TOO quickly (but I suppose that you had to shorten things since it WAS a novella).
Anyways. I was also quite thrilled that the romance wasn't EXACTLY like Renna & Leith, though you could definitely see parallels. The romance between Keevan and Addie was quite adorable, really. Especially when you got Addie's elder three brothers (and a younger one) involved... Nothing past kissing, really (though at the beginning there are mentions of how Keevan had forced some maids into kissing him), and it's quite sweet. And I was quite happy that I liked Keevan and Addie together, since I didn't really like either of them at the beginning (though I liked Keevan in book #3).
It was cool seeing main plot points from other books such as the night (or, nights) of the assassins, or when Leith arrived to Eagle Heights, the battle, etc. But, of course, with that comes major time jumps (there were quite a few of year/two year jumps of time), but I think that it just fit with the book.
Anyways, this was quite a nice book and definitely helped stall the anxious waiting for the four and final Acktar book.
May 16, 2023
I don't particularly care about Keevan but this was a nice backstory
August 29, 2019
This was everything I could hope for in a BoA novella. (Only 4.5 stars because it’s not my favorite of the series, but there are so many flail-y moments in this book!)
February 20, 2017
Overall, I really enjoyed this novella! I loved the character development that happened in it, especially with Keeven. I loved getting to know him more, and his personal struggled throughout was very well done and completely relatable. I grew to really like his character, and fully sympathized with his struggles and triumphs. I didn't really care for the character of Addie. She felt a little underdeveloped. There was just something missing. I didn't quite "feel" her.
The Christian themes portrayed throughout were clearly stated, and so encouraging. Forgiveness, mercy, justice . . .yeah. It was great. Tricia really hit the nail on the head!
Also, I LOVE the cover art! I think this is my favorite of all the books! ;)
The writing was sometimes hard to follow, and there were a few minor typos, but they hardly distracted from the story.
I really loved this book! I barely missed Renna and Leith (although towards the end I was like "RENNA!!!! LEITHHHHHHHHHH!!!!! I need more!!!"), I was so caught up in Keeven, Addie, General Stewart and Shad. Definitely check this great novella out, and pick up your copy on Amazon.com on December 31st, 2016!!!
*Thanks so much to Tricia Mingerink for the pre-release copy!!!*
The Christian themes portrayed throughout were clearly stated, and so encouraging. Forgiveness, mercy, justice . . .yeah. It was great. Tricia really hit the nail on the head!
Also, I LOVE the cover art! I think this is my favorite of all the books! ;)
The writing was sometimes hard to follow, and there were a few minor typos, but they hardly distracted from the story.
I really loved this book! I barely missed Renna and Leith (although towards the end I was like "RENNA!!!! LEITHHHHHHHHHH!!!!! I need more!!!"), I was so caught up in Keeven, Addie, General Stewart and Shad. Definitely check this great novella out, and pick up your copy on Amazon.com on December 31st, 2016!!!
*Thanks so much to Tricia Mingerink for the pre-release copy!!!*
April 1, 2023
ahhhhhh I love this one so much!
January 2, 2021
*if you haven’t read the first three Blades of Acktar books, proceed with caution!*
•
Ah this novella was adorable. I sped through it, and loved seeing things from Keevan’s POV from the beginning of Reapen’s reign until the end. It was fun to meet Brandi and Renna’s parents as well as a younger Shad and Lord Alister.
•
Getting to meet and love Addie was also a joy. I liked watching her and Keevan’s romance blossom and the end was just adorable.
•
Keevan’s struggle of forgiveness hit me hard. I’ve struggled with the same thing over and over and over. With his scars so visible, so prominent, I can sympathize with the hatred that could be so easily grasped.
•
All and all, an adorable novella!
Five stars
Ages 15 & up!
•
Ah this novella was adorable. I sped through it, and loved seeing things from Keevan’s POV from the beginning of Reapen’s reign until the end. It was fun to meet Brandi and Renna’s parents as well as a younger Shad and Lord Alister.
•
Getting to meet and love Addie was also a joy. I liked watching her and Keevan’s romance blossom and the end was just adorable.
•
Keevan’s struggle of forgiveness hit me hard. I’ve struggled with the same thing over and over and over. With his scars so visible, so prominent, I can sympathize with the hatred that could be so easily grasped.
•
All and all, an adorable novella!
Five stars
Ages 15 & up!
February 7, 2017
It took me a while to find time in my schedule to read this, but once I started there was no putting it down. For the first few chapters, I was disappointed to not be with Leith, Renna, Brandi, or Shad, but the book turned out to be a great peak into the story from a different set of eyes. The Leader who irritated me because of his poor treatment of Leith in previous books became much more understandable, and his scullery maid bride almost as lovable as Brandi.
Prince Keevan knows a life of indulgence. With a father who enforces little discipline and an older brother who makes sport of bad habits, he's quickly following his brother's footsteps. But Keevan's conscience is a little stronger than his brother's. A misdeed that almost went more than too far haunts him, but it pushes him to change his ways.
That determination must drive Keevan when he becomes the only surviving member of the royal family. His good looks and charm are ripped from him with the same knife that almost stole his life. Rescued by a scullery maid, he begins a new life as a fugitive and the hidden hope of his country. But Keevan questions his ability to be a better person, to be a leader. His father's best was not enough, so how can his best be anything more than his father's?
Life in hiding is a training ground. The time to reclaim the beleaguered kingdom will come. When the moment is right, Keevan must know how to balance justice and mercy. Can he make decisions when it counts the most?
I was given a free review copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own and not influenced by the gift of the book. :)
Prince Keevan knows a life of indulgence. With a father who enforces little discipline and an older brother who makes sport of bad habits, he's quickly following his brother's footsteps. But Keevan's conscience is a little stronger than his brother's. A misdeed that almost went more than too far haunts him, but it pushes him to change his ways.
That determination must drive Keevan when he becomes the only surviving member of the royal family. His good looks and charm are ripped from him with the same knife that almost stole his life. Rescued by a scullery maid, he begins a new life as a fugitive and the hidden hope of his country. But Keevan questions his ability to be a better person, to be a leader. His father's best was not enough, so how can his best be anything more than his father's?
Life in hiding is a training ground. The time to reclaim the beleaguered kingdom will come. When the moment is right, Keevan must know how to balance justice and mercy. Can he make decisions when it counts the most?
I was given a free review copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own and not influenced by the gift of the book. :)
December 29, 2016
I just can't get enough of the Acktar series!! This is Keevan's story and it's sad yet brilliantly told. Keevan and his family are attacked by Blades one night and he becomes the only survivor thanks in part to a scullery maid who witnesses the attack and bravely intervenes. Keevan is mentioned in Defy, Book 3, as the prince in hiding as he waiting for the right time to claim his throne. He was horrible to Leith Torren, our hero from the series, but this book explains why and helps the reader to see Keevan in a different way. Reena and Brandi also make brief appearances in the story and it feels like the series comes full circle with Keevan's role. Highly recommend this book, but only if you have read the previous books. The story means more if it's read in order.
Thanks to the author for the review ecopy provided, the thoughts and comments are my own.
Thanks to the author for the review ecopy provided, the thoughts and comments are my own.
February 3, 2018
A clever sidestep from the main series that fleshes out a minor but significant character in Defy…whom I can’t name because it would spoil a great plot twist from that book. The protagonist’s journey is unlike that of the other characters in the Acktar series. He wouldn’t actually have been my first pick for a solo tale based on what I read of him in Defy, and I had expected his story to end quite differently, but I was very pleased with the way it played out. Some of the themes tackled in this story were surprising, but in a good way. Acktar fans definitely should not miss this novella.
January 18, 2018
I never thought I would like to hear about Keevan. He really annoyed me in such a regal, princely way in Defy that I was just .... nope. But is Tricia even capable of writing a bad book? I'm not thinking so. I LOVED Destroy, and I'm even borderline LIKING Keevan now. There are always two sides to a story, and looking at everything from Keevan's point of view makes a lot of sense. His decisions, his reasons, his struggles....it all makes sense.
And young Shad is awesome. Just sayin'. ;-)
And young Shad is awesome. Just sayin'. ;-)
August 2, 2018
Good and interesting backstory
July 26, 2021
Great read!
December 29, 2016
What joy to return to Acktar again. This time we experience the events through the perspective of a character with a small part in the prior books, but a huge role in the broad sweep of the political affairs of Acktar. Prince Keevan, sole survivor of the attack on his family, true heir to the throne, cousin to Renna and Brandi, protected and hidden for four years, tells us his story.
This well-constructed novella rounds out the story, fills in details we couldn’t get from prior POV’s. We feel Keevan’s pain and self-doubt, as well as his anger and frustration. His growth as an individual is displayed in his thoughts and actions. Addie’s POV gives us another perspective from which to view the incidents leading to the final battle against King Respen and his Blades. The growing relationship between Keevan and Addie is developed over time through shared danger and pain, friendship, and eventually stronger feelings.
Once again, as in the other books of this series, strong Christian themes and principles are expressed throughout the story; not in a forced, preachy manner, but as a natural outgrowth of the story itself.
Several characters from the original series make appearances here, but nothing feels repetitive. The new perspectives keep the story fresh and appealing. If you enjoyed Dare, Deny, and Defy, you won’t want to miss returning to Acktar in Destroy.
I received an ARC copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review.
This well-constructed novella rounds out the story, fills in details we couldn’t get from prior POV’s. We feel Keevan’s pain and self-doubt, as well as his anger and frustration. His growth as an individual is displayed in his thoughts and actions. Addie’s POV gives us another perspective from which to view the incidents leading to the final battle against King Respen and his Blades. The growing relationship between Keevan and Addie is developed over time through shared danger and pain, friendship, and eventually stronger feelings.
Once again, as in the other books of this series, strong Christian themes and principles are expressed throughout the story; not in a forced, preachy manner, but as a natural outgrowth of the story itself.
Several characters from the original series make appearances here, but nothing feels repetitive. The new perspectives keep the story fresh and appealing. If you enjoyed Dare, Deny, and Defy, you won’t want to miss returning to Acktar in Destroy.
I received an ARC copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review.
August 5, 2024
I didn’t expect to love it!
I despised Keeven before I read this book. He’s still not my favorite. But this was an EXCELLENT redemption story! Although it’s not clear when he got saved. Found that weird.
I despised Keeven before I read this book. He’s still not my favorite. But this was an EXCELLENT redemption story! Although it’s not clear when he got saved. Found that weird.
May 26, 2022
Review to come soon! =D
July 16, 2024
This really helped me sympathize with Keevan once Leith and co arrive in Eagle Rock. I understood where he was coming from in book three, but I really got it this time.
August 10, 2017
May I begin by telling you how much I adore Tricia Mingerink’s Blades of Acktar series? Honestly, this series has caused no small amount of fangirling on my part. So, when Tricia announced out of the blue that she would be releasing a novella, Destroy wedged in-between books three and four, I was ecstatic.
Despite loving this series to death, I was a little concerned that I wouldn’t like this book which features Prince Keevan as the main character. Keevan is not a character that stands out as a very lovable one when we meet him in Defy, book three.
Boy, were my fears ill placed. Keevan, who I harshly misjudged to be unforgiving, weak, cowardly and unfit to rule Acktar, became a person to me, a person that has real, deep, struggles and insecurities, a person who was scarred emotionally and physically by a green-eyed assassin who stole his voice the night his family died, the night all of Acktar was plunged into a time of darkness under King Respen and his ruthless Blades.
But Keevan was also the person who personally asked for the names of every peasant that entered the refuge of Eagle Heights, the man who would deny himself sleep during battle time in order to be able to speak a personal word of thanks to every man who had been injured fighting for him. And for being that sort of man, his men and even me, the reader, couldn’t help but respect him.
Learning to forgive the man who had once tried to kill him was hard. Healing and ruling a nation so divided and broken as Acktar was even harder. Both seemed impossible for Keevan to do. Prince Keevan knew that he would do his best, but would that be enough? But the truth stands: “Kings that thought they were enough all by themselves fell into pride and tyranny, like Respen. But Keevan’s heart was in the hand of his God. And God was enough.” (taken from Destroy)
Keevan isn’t the only character we see a lot of in Destroy. Addie, the maid who saves his life, and her family play a key role. I love how overly protective Addie’s brothers are of her: P
Destroy, is a prequel in some ways even to the first book in the series and at the same time a sequel to Defy,, book three. So, a couple of scenes are familiar (although they don’t feel repetitive because of how vastly different the perspective is) and a lot of the plotline, as well, is already determined.
If you haven’t read the series, yet, I rather pity you : ). Seriously, this is an amazing series, and Destroy is just another incredible example of its awesomeness. This book does have a few scenes that would make me hesitate to recommend it to young and sensitive readers without their parents looking it over. As with the rest of the series, though, evil is always evil and portrayed through a proper Biblical perspective.
*Disclaimer: I received a free ARC copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.*
Despite loving this series to death, I was a little concerned that I wouldn’t like this book which features Prince Keevan as the main character. Keevan is not a character that stands out as a very lovable one when we meet him in Defy, book three.
Boy, were my fears ill placed. Keevan, who I harshly misjudged to be unforgiving, weak, cowardly and unfit to rule Acktar, became a person to me, a person that has real, deep, struggles and insecurities, a person who was scarred emotionally and physically by a green-eyed assassin who stole his voice the night his family died, the night all of Acktar was plunged into a time of darkness under King Respen and his ruthless Blades.
But Keevan was also the person who personally asked for the names of every peasant that entered the refuge of Eagle Heights, the man who would deny himself sleep during battle time in order to be able to speak a personal word of thanks to every man who had been injured fighting for him. And for being that sort of man, his men and even me, the reader, couldn’t help but respect him.
Learning to forgive the man who had once tried to kill him was hard. Healing and ruling a nation so divided and broken as Acktar was even harder. Both seemed impossible for Keevan to do. Prince Keevan knew that he would do his best, but would that be enough? But the truth stands: “Kings that thought they were enough all by themselves fell into pride and tyranny, like Respen. But Keevan’s heart was in the hand of his God. And God was enough.” (taken from Destroy)
Keevan isn’t the only character we see a lot of in Destroy. Addie, the maid who saves his life, and her family play a key role. I love how overly protective Addie’s brothers are of her: P
Destroy, is a prequel in some ways even to the first book in the series and at the same time a sequel to Defy,, book three. So, a couple of scenes are familiar (although they don’t feel repetitive because of how vastly different the perspective is) and a lot of the plotline, as well, is already determined.
If you haven’t read the series, yet, I rather pity you : ). Seriously, this is an amazing series, and Destroy is just another incredible example of its awesomeness. This book does have a few scenes that would make me hesitate to recommend it to young and sensitive readers without their parents looking it over. As with the rest of the series, though, evil is always evil and portrayed through a proper Biblical perspective.
*Disclaimer: I received a free ARC copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.*
January 17, 2017
This is the first book I purchased with my Christmas book money! I really liked this. I liked seeing the point of view of Keevan and the relationship develop between him and Addie. I also liked seeing how he developed as a leader (especially by his care for the individual people under him).
I also really like how this book is unashamed in its presentation of the Christian faith.
It is a funny thing coming to a book like this, where you already firmly like the antagonist much more than the protagonist. It puts you in the position of a resistant reader. So although I understood Keevan's position and sympathised with it, I never shared it.
This possibly effected my overall reading of the book. I found it impossible to believe, for example, that Addie would have been sent alone with the nearly dead heir to rescue him. For my own suspension of disbelief I pictured a couple of soldiers with them. They were very much in the background and did not interfere with the Addie/Keevan interactions but were very much needed I think.
I also found it hard to swallow that Keevan was so hard on himself for one incident that didn't progress beyond kissing (mind you I accepted she'd have a much harder time getting over it). The weight of guilt he felt seemed disproportionate and I also found it sad he struggled so much with feeling forgiven by God and forgiving others.
At points too I felt like I needed the other books as reference points to fully understand why something was happening.
On the flip slide I really liked the cover.
Overall, I did enjoy this. If you've read the Blades of Acktar series - which I highly recommend - it is definitely worth reading.
I also really like how this book is unashamed in its presentation of the Christian faith.
It is a funny thing coming to a book like this, where you already firmly like the antagonist much more than the protagonist. It puts you in the position of a resistant reader. So although I understood Keevan's position and sympathised with it, I never shared it.
This possibly effected my overall reading of the book. I found it impossible to believe, for example, that Addie would have been sent alone with the nearly dead heir to rescue him. For my own suspension of disbelief I pictured a couple of soldiers with them. They were very much in the background and did not interfere with the Addie/Keevan interactions but were very much needed I think.
I also found it hard to swallow that Keevan was so hard on himself for one incident that didn't progress beyond kissing (mind you I accepted she'd have a much harder time getting over it). The weight of guilt he felt seemed disproportionate and I also found it sad he struggled so much with feeling forgiven by God and forgiving others.
At points too I felt like I needed the other books as reference points to fully understand why something was happening.
On the flip slide I really liked the cover.
Overall, I did enjoy this. If you've read the Blades of Acktar series - which I highly recommend - it is definitely worth reading.
November 9, 2019
This was an awesome story that kinda happens throughout all three of the original books. I loved hearing the Leaders story. While I find that most prequel/side story books fall flat and leave you wishing you could get back to the main character, this was an amazing mix of characters I already knew, and ones I wanted to know.
I loved how well the author handled the Leaders issue, but for that reason, I would not recommend this book to anyone under 13. Again though, the author handled it very well.
The only reason I have one star off is that the presence of that issue did make some things uncomfortable.
2019>> I enjoyed the re-read of this book. I loved seeing the characters again in almost an overview of the first three books. This author is incredibly tallented and keeps me hooked.
I loved how well the author handled the Leaders issue, but for that reason, I would not recommend this book to anyone under 13. Again though, the author handled it very well.
The only reason I have one star off is that the presence of that issue did make some things uncomfortable.
2019>> I enjoyed the re-read of this book. I loved seeing the characters again in almost an overview of the first three books. This author is incredibly tallented and keeps me hooked.
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