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Shadyia Ascendant #1
Beneath the Silver Rose
"One day, none will stand against you."
When these words were first spoken to Shadyia, she did not believe them. How could a common courtesan be the progeny of a goddess?
Beneath the ballrooms of the Silver Rose palace sleeps an ancient labyrinth. Constructed by a vicious sorcerer, its twisted halls and shadowy guardians once challenged the world’s mightiest champions. When Shadyia is commanded by her madam to seduce a wealthy and mysterious scholar, she becomes ensnared in an ancient conflict between gods, villains, heroes and magicians. The scholar, Aaron of Featherquill, searches for an enchanted treasure, a key that will show the way to a forgotten city of wonders.
As Demos Azari, the adviser to a vicious order of crusading knights, schemes to ensnare Shadyia into his devious plot, she must descend into the labyrinth and solve its deadly traps. Accompanied by Aaron and her mischievous lover, Deresi, Shadyia finds the strength to defy Demos and strives to prevent a brutal demigod of chaos from returning to consume the world.
Beneath the Silver Rose begins Shadyia’s ascension into the heroine she was meant to become.
5 Stars!
I could very easily waffle on for ages here, but I won't. I'll just tell you that I read this, was captivated within the first few pages, and thoroughly enjoyed it.
When these words were first spoken to Shadyia, she did not believe them. How could a common courtesan be the progeny of a goddess?
Beneath the ballrooms of the Silver Rose palace sleeps an ancient labyrinth. Constructed by a vicious sorcerer, its twisted halls and shadowy guardians once challenged the world’s mightiest champions. When Shadyia is commanded by her madam to seduce a wealthy and mysterious scholar, she becomes ensnared in an ancient conflict between gods, villains, heroes and magicians. The scholar, Aaron of Featherquill, searches for an enchanted treasure, a key that will show the way to a forgotten city of wonders.
As Demos Azari, the adviser to a vicious order of crusading knights, schemes to ensnare Shadyia into his devious plot, she must descend into the labyrinth and solve its deadly traps. Accompanied by Aaron and her mischievous lover, Deresi, Shadyia finds the strength to defy Demos and strives to prevent a brutal demigod of chaos from returning to consume the world.
Beneath the Silver Rose begins Shadyia’s ascension into the heroine she was meant to become.
5 Stars!
I could very easily waffle on for ages here, but I won't. I'll just tell you that I read this, was captivated within the first few pages, and thoroughly enjoyed it.
444 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2017
100 people are currently reading
284 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
September 30, 2025
Welcome to the world of the Silver Rose. The sexy, powerful, shocking fantasy everyone wanna reads but usually can't find. Rare magic, bold and beautiful *gay* women, mysterious magicians with hidden agendas, and gods that manipulate mortals like pieces on a chessboard. this book worth it just for that mental picture alone haha
Strong beautiful struggling CHARACTERS !! Each with their own personal vendettas, missions, and goals that definitely isn't some huge conspiracy....or is it? MUHAHAH, aright lets meet the fam:
Shadryia: a regular courtesan with violent tendencies and in a forbidden romance with Deresi !!! ekkkkk they so cute together, !! quick someone make some fan art of em for me !!
She quick. She fast. She smart. And she gonna become a goddamn guardian to protect her gurls !!
But after killing ... royalty ....
She is forced into a game she cannot win, with RULES she doesn't even know. Beaten but never broken, Shadryia will fight for her sisterhood. God can't ya just feel the tension, dramatic as fuuuck amiright?
Aaron: our historical scholar but also a powerful magician. We get some real ~seer~ vibes here that add to whole fantasy element of the novel.
Okay what I really loved here is that each character is really so developed !!! We really get to know the different motives of the characters and you know...actually have reasons why characters act way they do, which somehow some authors just forget to include like what ??? *face palm*
anyways so our boiiii Aaron discovers his greatest desire in the world— to be a key for a new world and to discover a secret library where no one may venture....or can they? *wink wink, nudge nudge*
Verthanidi: evil spirit? Demon? Being with dark magic? TBD? *must be level "book 2" to access boss info I guess*
Unable to have a physical form, Verthanidi whispers promises of greed and power. A strong desire to remake the world for its betterment (of his own kind duhhh). He will escape one day, and the devil himself will tremble when he does !!
mhmm sure hunty.... anywho main critique with our bad guy is just I need a little more specific like what kinda end of the world type bullshit does he wants like why ??? to destroy who ?? just sayin' ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
Deresi: cutesy badass ex street rat in the sisterhood who secretly loves Shadryia and yes yes just powerful awesome woman lesbian vibes! gimme more
I mean that's definitely not the main reason why I read this book heheh anyways...
We get our ADORABLE tricky and mischievous cute couple (fight fight fight, kiss kiss kiss) Deresi helps Shadryia with tricks she learned when trying to hide form guards on the street. But will Deresi survive long enough to enjoy her new love with Shadyria or will the dark magic number their days? (she fucking better not die I not kidding, I will riot sir)
Then there's bunch of other cool side characters like Makayla: a power hungry woman who rises up as the new Madam of the entire sisterhood. who will stop at nothing to become a power to be reckoned with O.o look out for that one
Overall--this was a sexy, powerful, shocking fantasy book that actually surprised me which isn't fucking easy after all the YA / fantasy / assassin books I've read haha. With all the correct ingredients for a great fantasy series, I'm curious how the author will continue to develop it. The concept is just so unique to add within a fantasy realm but the author really gonna need to develop the worldbuilding within the action/plot so we can really dive into the story while also understanding what the fuck is happening. and pLeAse please take this note that my my BIGGEST COMPLAINT was the constant change in POV but no label (for real? it takes like 2 seconds bud) so heads up my readers to carefully note them otherwise you might accidentally get lost
Strong beautiful struggling CHARACTERS !! Each with their own personal vendettas, missions, and goals that definitely isn't some huge conspiracy....or is it? MUHAHAH, aright lets meet the fam:
Shadryia: a regular courtesan with violent tendencies and in a forbidden romance with Deresi !!! ekkkkk they so cute together, !! quick someone make some fan art of em for me !!
She quick. She fast. She smart. And she gonna become a goddamn guardian to protect her gurls !!
But after killing ... royalty ....
She is forced into a game she cannot win, with RULES she doesn't even know. Beaten but never broken, Shadryia will fight for her sisterhood. God can't ya just feel the tension, dramatic as fuuuck amiright?
Aaron: our historical scholar but also a powerful magician. We get some real ~seer~ vibes here that add to whole fantasy element of the novel.
Okay what I really loved here is that each character is really so developed !!! We really get to know the different motives of the characters and you know...actually have reasons why characters act way they do, which somehow some authors just forget to include like what ??? *face palm*
anyways so our boiiii Aaron discovers his greatest desire in the world— to be a key for a new world and to discover a secret library where no one may venture....or can they? *wink wink, nudge nudge*
Verthanidi: evil spirit? Demon? Being with dark magic? TBD? *must be level "book 2" to access boss info I guess*
Unable to have a physical form, Verthanidi whispers promises of greed and power. A strong desire to remake the world for its betterment (of his own kind duhhh). He will escape one day, and the devil himself will tremble when he does !!
mhmm sure hunty.... anywho main critique with our bad guy is just I need a little more specific like what kinda end of the world type bullshit does he wants like why ??? to destroy who ?? just sayin' ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
Deresi: cutesy badass ex street rat in the sisterhood who secretly loves Shadryia and yes yes just powerful awesome woman lesbian vibes! gimme more
I mean that's definitely not the main reason why I read this book heheh anyways...
We get our ADORABLE tricky and mischievous cute couple (fight fight fight, kiss kiss kiss) Deresi helps Shadryia with tricks she learned when trying to hide form guards on the street. But will Deresi survive long enough to enjoy her new love with Shadyria or will the dark magic number their days? (she fucking better not die I not kidding, I will riot sir)
Then there's bunch of other cool side characters like Makayla: a power hungry woman who rises up as the new Madam of the entire sisterhood. who will stop at nothing to become a power to be reckoned with O.o look out for that one
Overall--this was a sexy, powerful, shocking fantasy book that actually surprised me which isn't fucking easy after all the YA / fantasy / assassin books I've read haha. With all the correct ingredients for a great fantasy series, I'm curious how the author will continue to develop it. The concept is just so unique to add within a fantasy realm but the author really gonna need to develop the worldbuilding within the action/plot so we can really dive into the story while also understanding what the fuck is happening. and pLeAse please take this note that my my BIGGEST COMPLAINT was the constant change in POV but no label (for real? it takes like 2 seconds bud) so heads up my readers to carefully note them otherwise you might accidentally get lost
June 14, 2017
This book had me from the first chapter. Shadyia, a courtesan who refused to be raped and beaten took bloody revenge on the men that tried. However this brings great danger to her "sisters" and the whole Silver Rose. This however is just the tip of the iceberg. Shadyia has also been caught in a plot of powerful magicians who themselves might only be pawns in the game of infinitely more powerful entities. This book has not shortage of secrets, enemies and danger. On a personal note I would have like a few more fight scenes, but that is just my personal view. Never one to play by the rules Shadyia might also have a problem with The Silver Roses edict on relationship.
The Silver Rose is high end brothel. How high end? it is based in palace. The girls are all taken care of well paid, fed and clothed. They are called sisters, and everyone knows is you mistreat a sister of the Silver Rose there will be brutal repercussions. However not everyone shares the same concerns for the girls welfare as the kindly Madam. When Shadyia's actions might put them at risk these voices become louder, theonly thing protecting Shadyia is a new assignment/coin. However this assignment might be more dangerous then all Shadyia's mortal ememies put together. With only a few but powerful and brave allies Shadyia must fight her way through a harsh, unjust, but magical world.
The only criticism I have of this book apart from wanting more fights, is I think too much was left to be finished in the next book. However on the plus side there are many possibilities and adventures awaiting the heroes next. Friends to avenge, and people to be put into their place (in the ground hopefully), and relationships to further explore.
The Silver Rose is high end brothel. How high end? it is based in palace. The girls are all taken care of well paid, fed and clothed. They are called sisters, and everyone knows is you mistreat a sister of the Silver Rose there will be brutal repercussions. However not everyone shares the same concerns for the girls welfare as the kindly Madam. When Shadyia's actions might put them at risk these voices become louder, theonly thing protecting Shadyia is a new assignment/coin. However this assignment might be more dangerous then all Shadyia's mortal ememies put together. With only a few but powerful and brave allies Shadyia must fight her way through a harsh, unjust, but magical world.
The only criticism I have of this book apart from wanting more fights, is I think too much was left to be finished in the next book. However on the plus side there are many possibilities and adventures awaiting the heroes next. Friends to avenge, and people to be put into their place (in the ground hopefully), and relationships to further explore.
November 14, 2017
This is a book I read as part of #SPFBO and I have to say it was a mixed one for me as there were some elements I really liked (it's fast-paced, the lead characters are men and women, the protagonist is bi-sexual) and there were other things I really didn't (there's a horrific rape/torture/abuse scene described at the end of the book, many other instances of violence and rape, and some of the dialogue is a bit forced). It's hard for me to review books I'm so conflicted on, becuase although I do think there's a fair bit that's good here, I feel like maybe it's outweighed by the bad in some areas and therefore I just can't give it any more than a 3*s.
We follow a young woman called Shadyia as the main protagonist. Her life revolves around the Silver Rose which is a brothel in an old Palace. The ladies who work there are the best in the city, they're well cared for and they live a life of relative luxury compared to most of the other 'whore-houses' around. However, when the story starts we see Shadyia gets into trouble defending a friend of hers from some brutish nobles who come in and try to abuse her. Shadyia has a past of secrets, but after saving her friend she has to confide in her and they begin a clandestine relationship when they are not servicing the 'Coins' they have to for their work in the brothel.
The main element I liked about the opening of the book was the quick pacing and the way it felt easy to get into. It's a fairly standard fantasy world but we have immortals and beings who have lived many many years and are trying to hunt down precious magical items to free/imprison the immortals. The magic isn't often really explained, but illusions are a big part of it and there's the ever-present background story of the immortals influencing humans to do their bidding.
What I disliked about the story at first was that there were some typos and there was also some slightly clunky writing when it came to the dialogue. For me, it felt like the world was supposed to be a fairly stereotypical fantasy world, but occasionally things like 'girlfriend' and 'honey' were used as pet names and forms of address (along with others) and I felt like this really took me out of the story as the language didn't seem to really fit with a time period where they have lanterns and swords etc.
For me, the second half of the book was far more interesting as the characters we've been following are on an adventure to get through a labyrinth of puzzles, riddles and problems. This reminded me a bit of HP and the Chamber of Secrets which I always enjoyed, and I liked the darker nature of some of these tasks and challenges.
The problem with the second half (as this was set to get maybe a 3.5*-4*) was that the story ends quite quickly and leave much to be resolved in the sequel. It's also a real issue for me when rape and torture are the impression you are left with after reading a book (especially when it's a horrific example of it) and this book leaves you with just a few pages separating *that* nasty scene from the ending of the book, which left a sour taste in my mouth.
So, in conclusion, I think this book has a fun premise, it's got good ideas and it plays on some of these e.g. the warrior character, the bi character, the relationship between two women, but it also has some flaws when it comes to the writing itself and also (for me personally) I would have liked the violent rape scenes to have been toned down and a little less frequent. It's a decent book and I think I liked it (though maybe a 2.75*s would be more of an accurate rating) but it's also a problematic read and certainly not one I could recommend to people who have triggers.
We follow a young woman called Shadyia as the main protagonist. Her life revolves around the Silver Rose which is a brothel in an old Palace. The ladies who work there are the best in the city, they're well cared for and they live a life of relative luxury compared to most of the other 'whore-houses' around. However, when the story starts we see Shadyia gets into trouble defending a friend of hers from some brutish nobles who come in and try to abuse her. Shadyia has a past of secrets, but after saving her friend she has to confide in her and they begin a clandestine relationship when they are not servicing the 'Coins' they have to for their work in the brothel.
The main element I liked about the opening of the book was the quick pacing and the way it felt easy to get into. It's a fairly standard fantasy world but we have immortals and beings who have lived many many years and are trying to hunt down precious magical items to free/imprison the immortals. The magic isn't often really explained, but illusions are a big part of it and there's the ever-present background story of the immortals influencing humans to do their bidding.
What I disliked about the story at first was that there were some typos and there was also some slightly clunky writing when it came to the dialogue. For me, it felt like the world was supposed to be a fairly stereotypical fantasy world, but occasionally things like 'girlfriend' and 'honey' were used as pet names and forms of address (along with others) and I felt like this really took me out of the story as the language didn't seem to really fit with a time period where they have lanterns and swords etc.
For me, the second half of the book was far more interesting as the characters we've been following are on an adventure to get through a labyrinth of puzzles, riddles and problems. This reminded me a bit of HP and the Chamber of Secrets which I always enjoyed, and I liked the darker nature of some of these tasks and challenges.
The problem with the second half (as this was set to get maybe a 3.5*-4*) was that the story ends quite quickly and leave much to be resolved in the sequel. It's also a real issue for me when rape and torture are the impression you are left with after reading a book (especially when it's a horrific example of it) and this book leaves you with just a few pages separating *that* nasty scene from the ending of the book, which left a sour taste in my mouth.
So, in conclusion, I think this book has a fun premise, it's got good ideas and it plays on some of these e.g. the warrior character, the bi character, the relationship between two women, but it also has some flaws when it comes to the writing itself and also (for me personally) I would have liked the violent rape scenes to have been toned down and a little less frequent. It's a decent book and I think I liked it (though maybe a 2.75*s would be more of an accurate rating) but it's also a problematic read and certainly not one I could recommend to people who have triggers.
November 24, 2020
This is quite an amazing high-fantasy story. All of the key characters are present in different forms. An unsuspecting hero with hidden talents. An ancient wizard, who doesn't look to be much past 30, evil spirits sliding through the back alleys, an olde crone, one or two competing religions, a dangerous quest - it's all here!
Since it's a trilogy, the tale gets dragged out a bit, but the descriptions and conundrums keep it moving.
There are a few strange typos...
I'll read the rest of the series. I'm hooked.
Since it's a trilogy, the tale gets dragged out a bit, but the descriptions and conundrums keep it moving.
There are a few strange typos...
I'll read the rest of the series. I'm hooked.
Want to read
May 11, 2020 🎁 The complete Shadyia Ascendant Series (3 book series) is FREE on Amazon today (5/11/2020)! 🎁
July 13, 2020
Very action packed story
Great read amazing story line. Well thought out characters. This book has a bit of everything that makes a great read.
Great read amazing story line. Well thought out characters. This book has a bit of everything that makes a great read.
December 25, 2020
Wow! So much packed into this adventure/fantasy/romance! Imaginative world and great dialogue between characters, as well as great character development. Would have been 5 stars but it was an abrupt ending leaving too many threads hanging. Luckily the second book is out and quite satisfying in bringing together the storyline threads.
Excited to read more in this series!
Excited to read more in this series!
March 19, 2018
FOR 18+ ONLY! Shadyia is a sister of the Silver Rose brothel in the realm of Anderholm and is a favorite of the Lord William Querry, but when the King’s uncle, Lord Dunstan, comes to the Silver Rose to take and enjoy Shadyia violently as vengeance for losing a horse race to Lord Querry, Shadyia’s self-defensive reactions killing Lord Dunstan puts the Silver Rose at risk. Meanwhile, as betrayal and deception brings upheaval to the Silver Rose, Shadyia is commanded by her superior, as well as extorted by a dangerous spirit voice, to entice a mysteriously wealthy historian and magician, Aaron of Featherquill, to be charmed by her wiles and guide him to what will be a dangerous quest in a hidden labyrinth under the city. This was a well-constructed epic first book of a medieval fantasy that uses a “Game of Thrones” style of power-hungry characters within a parallel world of swords, shadows, magic, kings, godlike beings, and vicious monsters to draw fantasy readers in. Our ascendant heroes in this tale are not presented as members of ruling families, providing a more “one-of-us” empathetic saga, but the heroes are also constantly debating whether they are being guided by good or deceptive thoughts in their quest. In this way, the background mythology is presented within the mystery of the plot, leaving the reader to wonder about the right path as well. Some actions and consequences were questionable, but only at the quibbling level. Secondary adult themes of sexual equality, as well as sexual orientation, are addressed plainly within the journey, so I recommend this for adult readers. Even though this is only the first book in a saga series, the nearly 500 pages is a very complex read in itself. The ebook version I read includes the first chapter of the second book, which I found to be a better final chapter of the opening book in the series, as it provided an opening resolution to an immediate cliffhanger, while still leaving an inviting taste to the greater challenge to be faced by our emerging heroes.
May 27, 2022
I thought it was a great story, up to the labyrinth part. The story starts with a bang, with the protagonist Shadyia killing three men in the high-class brothel she works at. This, of course, sets into motion a chain of events that will, presumably, alter the fate of everyone and everything.
The author does a good job introducing the main characters of the story, and their motives. There are several (religious) factions, ancient beings, two age-old sorcerers looking for an item of great importance, locked away in a deadly labyrinth, and Shadyia learns more of her ancestry, which goes back millenia.
Shadyia, and her girlfriend Deresi are high class courtesans. The romance is not the main focus of the story, but as the story continues, their relationship deepens. That doesn't mean Shadyia (and presumably Deresi) hate having sex with customers; on the contrary, they enjoy having sex with their male customers. And that's fine, but there are a few scenes in the book that come close to a love triangle, when Shadyia's inner monologue indicates she wouldn't mind seeing them in private and perhaps living together. Now, this is entirely a personal opinion but it is a trope I simply do not like. I suspect most readers do not care, though, and it doesn't really matter for the story.
I thought the book started to become a bit tedious, when the main characters enter the labyrinth, to retrieve the item. They have to overcome many a riddle or dangerous situation, but you know beforehand they will prevail, so there isn't any sense of danger.
The ending of the book has a very explicit torture scene, that presumably functions as a trigger so that Shadyia can later lay waste to the religious and misogynistic organization that killed the character.
I'm looking forward to the next installment.
The author does a good job introducing the main characters of the story, and their motives. There are several (religious) factions, ancient beings, two age-old sorcerers looking for an item of great importance, locked away in a deadly labyrinth, and Shadyia learns more of her ancestry, which goes back millenia.
Shadyia, and her girlfriend Deresi are high class courtesans. The romance is not the main focus of the story, but as the story continues, their relationship deepens. That doesn't mean Shadyia (and presumably Deresi) hate having sex with customers; on the contrary, they enjoy having sex with their male customers. And that's fine, but there are a few scenes in the book that come close to a love triangle, when Shadyia's inner monologue indicates she wouldn't mind seeing them in private and perhaps living together. Now, this is entirely a personal opinion but it is a trope I simply do not like. I suspect most readers do not care, though, and it doesn't really matter for the story.
I thought the book started to become a bit tedious, when the main characters enter the labyrinth, to retrieve the item. They have to overcome many a riddle or dangerous situation, but you know beforehand they will prevail, so there isn't any sense of danger.
The ending of the book has a very explicit torture scene, that presumably functions as a trigger so that Shadyia can later lay waste to the religious and misogynistic organization that killed the character.
I'm looking forward to the next installment.
May 6, 2018
When I first requested this book to review, I did so because the cover caught my eye and the blurb sounded interesting. What I found was so much more! It's been a while since I have able to immerse myself in a well written fantasy that had me hanging on every word.
T.S. Adrian has done a beautiful job of building her world. It has an intricate social system and a long history. I can't wait to discover more as the series continues and I am sure that I will with a historian being one of the main characters.
Now speaking of characters... There are a lot and I did get them confused in the beginning as I am horrible at remembering names. That didn't last for long however as they all developed their own personalities and 'voices' in my mind. Some I would gladly lock in a room without food or water for a few years. Others I loved and I cheered their accomplishments.
As I am sure you can tell, I really enjoyed BENEATH THE SILVER ROSE. It was well paced, well written with great characters and delightful dialogue. I would recommend this book to any of my readers who enjoy fantasy. Yes, there is violence and yes there is sex but nothing that is in your face explicit. Once you are hooked, be sure to let me know what you think of this world.
***This book was given to me at no charge by the author in exchange for fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
T.S. Adrian has done a beautiful job of building her world. It has an intricate social system and a long history. I can't wait to discover more as the series continues and I am sure that I will with a historian being one of the main characters.
Now speaking of characters... There are a lot and I did get them confused in the beginning as I am horrible at remembering names. That didn't last for long however as they all developed their own personalities and 'voices' in my mind. Some I would gladly lock in a room without food or water for a few years. Others I loved and I cheered their accomplishments.
As I am sure you can tell, I really enjoyed BENEATH THE SILVER ROSE. It was well paced, well written with great characters and delightful dialogue. I would recommend this book to any of my readers who enjoy fantasy. Yes, there is violence and yes there is sex but nothing that is in your face explicit. Once you are hooked, be sure to let me know what you think of this world.
***This book was given to me at no charge by the author in exchange for fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
July 30, 2018
I thought this book was brilliant! It had me hooked from the first page to the very last...couldn’t put it down. I loved the characters, loved the world the author created (wasn’t obscenely complicated where the words start to blur together a bore a reader).
The feels invoked were real here! Anger, excitement, shock, dread and horror were all very real. As much as I was horrified by what happened to one of the characters, I appreciated that the author didn’t shy away from horror. It was explicit, but not overdone, and I feel it was vital not only the story, but to the reader in order to get into the main characters headspace.
10/10, will absolutely read again, and will absolutely read the next instalment immediately!
The feels invoked were real here! Anger, excitement, shock, dread and horror were all very real. As much as I was horrified by what happened to one of the characters, I appreciated that the author didn’t shy away from horror. It was explicit, but not overdone, and I feel it was vital not only the story, but to the reader in order to get into the main characters headspace.
10/10, will absolutely read again, and will absolutely read the next instalment immediately!
July 14, 2020
A heady tale
I love the descriptiveness of this story. It was nicely paced, put together well, and the characters were nicely fleshed out. Nice romance scenes, but not too many, and I look forward to reading more in this tale.
I love the descriptiveness of this story. It was nicely paced, put together well, and the characters were nicely fleshed out. Nice romance scenes, but not too many, and I look forward to reading more in this tale.
July 15, 2020
Author and promoter friend directed me to this great read. I absolutely enjoyed it. Quite a page turner. My kind of book. Looking forward to next in the series. Would love to read more from this author. Nicely done.
July 14, 2020
Could not give this book less than 5 stars! What an awesome, well written read and quite a page turner! Highly recommend. You won't be disappointed!
July 14, 2020
An author, promoter friend of mine told me about this book. I could not put it down. 2 thumbs up. I can't wait to read the next book in the series!
April 7, 2017
Freaking awesome
I really loved this story and how all the characters came together and developed and I can't wait to read the next book!
I really loved this story and how all the characters came together and developed and I can't wait to read the next book!
August 24, 2020
This was a great book. I read it a while back. An author/promoter friend told me about these books. I will be reading book 2 this weekend. Can't wait! I am hooked!
May 13, 2018
I was not expecting this type of story, but it was told in such a way that you had to keep reading to find out what is going to happen next.
This story is mainly about Shadyia and the profession she decided to get into after her revenge.
Very interesting book, looking forward to Book II.
I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This story is mainly about Shadyia and the profession she decided to get into after her revenge.
Very interesting book, looking forward to Book II.
I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
April 21, 2017
Very exciting and interesting read from an author I've never read before.
I received this as a fee copy in exchange for an honest review.
Having said that, actually liked the book a lot. I'm really ready for the next installment in the series so that I can know what happens with the characters! In love the idea of a strong female character. I've always been drawn to those, though any well-written and well-defined characters are welcome in my readings. I enjoyed liking the characters I was supposed to like and thoroughly disliking the "bad guys" as well as figuring out which ones were which in certain cases! I love the main character, Shadiya, and I am now absolutely her champion in her search for herself and her place in her world. I liked the conflict between the characters when it arose, and I am truly saddened by the results of the actions of one character's absolute gullibility. I did like trying to figure out where the story was going next, and it was not always predictable, which is a good thing for someone like me who likes to have to think while reading her books (or watching her tv and movies!). The only thing I didn't like was that I felt that, once the relationship between Shadiya and Deresi was established, the love scenes did not need to be so graphic. I don't feel it moved the story along. It was kind of there to add extra words, hence the four stars instead of five. I don't like excessive love scenes in my books as a rule, anyway, no matter who is in them, so this is a personal preference for me. I just want more story, more other type of action, more magic, more swords, so I guess I want book 2!
I received this as a fee copy in exchange for an honest review.
Having said that, actually liked the book a lot. I'm really ready for the next installment in the series so that I can know what happens with the characters! In love the idea of a strong female character. I've always been drawn to those, though any well-written and well-defined characters are welcome in my readings. I enjoyed liking the characters I was supposed to like and thoroughly disliking the "bad guys" as well as figuring out which ones were which in certain cases! I love the main character, Shadiya, and I am now absolutely her champion in her search for herself and her place in her world. I liked the conflict between the characters when it arose, and I am truly saddened by the results of the actions of one character's absolute gullibility. I did like trying to figure out where the story was going next, and it was not always predictable, which is a good thing for someone like me who likes to have to think while reading her books (or watching her tv and movies!). The only thing I didn't like was that I felt that, once the relationship between Shadiya and Deresi was established, the love scenes did not need to be so graphic. I don't feel it moved the story along. It was kind of there to add extra words, hence the four stars instead of five. I don't like excessive love scenes in my books as a rule, anyway, no matter who is in them, so this is a personal preference for me. I just want more story, more other type of action, more magic, more swords, so I guess I want book 2!
May 20, 2017
Beneath the Silver Rose
T.S. Adrian
Adventure, Magic, and oh so much more!
Trigger warning. There is a afterward talk and a description of rape in the book.
Being a courtesan or a whore by baser standards is harder than it seems. But that is the world Shadyia lives in. With her fellow sisters that is under the rule of Madam Amrita. They live in the Silver Rose. And pass their time with their coins or by themselves perfecting their art of seduction. With dark magic at work unknown to most of those mentioned in this book. Shadyia knows her days are numbered with she protects herself and her sisters from a drunk and angry Prince. Then later puts herself in more danger by listening to all the people around her trying to get to a historian scholar named Aaron. Then a new sister Mistress Makayla rises as the new Madam whose disdain is evident to all the sisters that she hates them all. Will she survive long enough to enjoy her new love Deresi and perhaps the life they want to live.
T.S. Adrian
Adventure, Magic, and oh so much more!
Trigger warning. There is a afterward talk and a description of rape in the book.
Being a courtesan or a whore by baser standards is harder than it seems. But that is the world Shadyia lives in. With her fellow sisters that is under the rule of Madam Amrita. They live in the Silver Rose. And pass their time with their coins or by themselves perfecting their art of seduction. With dark magic at work unknown to most of those mentioned in this book. Shadyia knows her days are numbered with she protects herself and her sisters from a drunk and angry Prince. Then later puts herself in more danger by listening to all the people around her trying to get to a historian scholar named Aaron. Then a new sister Mistress Makayla rises as the new Madam whose disdain is evident to all the sisters that she hates them all. Will she survive long enough to enjoy her new love Deresi and perhaps the life they want to live.
July 14, 2018
Excellent
This is a very good, well written book. Can not wait to read the second book in the series. Awesome.
This is a very good, well written book. Can not wait to read the second book in the series. Awesome.
August 25, 2017
Fantasy that feels like reading history. Characters are so three dimensional, well developed. Love, evil, friendship, magic, deceit, and so much more keep the plot boiling & turbulent. Can't believe this is a first book (7 years to write). Sounds like the 2nd book is even better. I need to take a break from all the tension before reading it.
Kindle e-book. Must have been on sale and good reviews.
====================
Forbidden Romance in an Age of Veiled Magic!
When Shadyia, a courtesan of the Silver Rose, violates the tenets of the Sisterhood, she is commanded by her madam to appease an order of vicious crusaders by seducing a powerful magician masquerading as a wealthy scholar.
Caught between an ancient conflict of Order and Chaos, Shadyia and her companions must descend beneath the Silver Rose into a labyrinth of deadly traps and shadowy guardians. For only there can she defy the crusaders who threaten her sorority and avert the prophecy of a darkness that returns to consume the world.
Kindle e-book. Must have been on sale and good reviews.
====================
Forbidden Romance in an Age of Veiled Magic!
When Shadyia, a courtesan of the Silver Rose, violates the tenets of the Sisterhood, she is commanded by her madam to appease an order of vicious crusaders by seducing a powerful magician masquerading as a wealthy scholar.
Caught between an ancient conflict of Order and Chaos, Shadyia and her companions must descend beneath the Silver Rose into a labyrinth of deadly traps and shadowy guardians. For only there can she defy the crusaders who threaten her sorority and avert the prophecy of a darkness that returns to consume the world.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 22, 2017
The plot excited my interest enough to delve into the intricate ins and outs of a fictional time and place, incorporating elaborate protocol, personal intrigue, and various character’s desires.
Flawless writing captured my imagination, good descriptions swept me into incredible scenes of mayhem and magic, and each character’s point of view added to the drama. Short sections containing explicit sexual scenes didn’t interest me but were easy to skip. Allowing for taste, others may appreciate the inclusion. All in all, a well-written, enjoyable read.
Flawless writing captured my imagination, good descriptions swept me into incredible scenes of mayhem and magic, and each character’s point of view added to the drama. Short sections containing explicit sexual scenes didn’t interest me but were easy to skip. Allowing for taste, others may appreciate the inclusion. All in all, a well-written, enjoyable read.
May 6, 2018
A great story for a strong female characters
Beyond imagination
I couldn't put this book down. I was taken on a magical adventure. I was in awe from the beginning until the end. Sure as a whole the story summons the dark side of fantasy. I was captivated and intrigued at the same time. The hero did not exactly lead an auspicious lifestyle that in most would consider good. Though her circumstances were not of great standing her true character strengths brought out the hero within her heart and soul. Her flaws did not diminish the astonishment of the adventure. The way the loss of life to the sorrow of loss was describe in such a way that feelings could not be separated from a readers standpoint. I was not just an audience but a travelling friend.
Beyond imagination
I couldn't put this book down. I was taken on a magical adventure. I was in awe from the beginning until the end. Sure as a whole the story summons the dark side of fantasy. I was captivated and intrigued at the same time. The hero did not exactly lead an auspicious lifestyle that in most would consider good. Though her circumstances were not of great standing her true character strengths brought out the hero within her heart and soul. Her flaws did not diminish the astonishment of the adventure. The way the loss of life to the sorrow of loss was describe in such a way that feelings could not be separated from a readers standpoint. I was not just an audience but a travelling friend.
December 1, 2017
Not great but not terrible. This started strong and had me hooked with the fast pace but it bogged down for me about halfway through. While I loved the strong female lead, I felt this was overwhelming explict in ways and places that did nothing for the story. It's not often I'm critical of a book, so I'll come back to this after the holidays and see if I've changed my mind.
March 9, 2018
Very good book. If not for all of the grammatical errors it could have easily been a 5 for me. I can't quite figure out how I feel about Shadyia though. Either she is really good at what she does or it's not all "just business" like she claims. But either way I can't wait to read the next book in the series. Low key hoping Makayla gets a well placed dagger.
March 28, 2017
Engrossing fantasy plot line, lesbian romance (that is not the focal point of the plot, refreshingly), well-rounded and interesting characters - what's not to enjoy? I have already pre-ordered the second book. I've been looking for a series like this one for a long time, I look forward to reading them all, and will be keeping an eye out for this author in the future.
April 14, 2017
"I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This novel was an interesting read and different than what I was expecting. The story contains several plot twists and nothing is at it appear in to be. Beneath every face is a mind that is manipulating others. There is love, action, adventure, and magic in this book.
Shadyia is a prostitute who works at the Silver Rose. She has seen much in her life and came to the Silver Rose after her foster died. She got revenge on the man who destroyed her foster father and enjoys the pleasures of her position at the Silver Rose. She has many sisters and loves one them very deeply, but they are forbidden from using their skills on each other.
When Shadyia kills the uncle of the king to protect her madam, it sets off a chain of events that affect everyone. She is told she must seduce Aaron, a magician. When her madam dies, one the mistresses has a new will forged so she will control the Silver Rose. She despises Shadyia and makes her suffer in many ways.When Vethandi threatens Shadyia, she knows she must do all she can to save the one she loves. She continues to develop her skills as a warrior from a former mistress, who tried to avenge the madam. The Silver Rose holds many secrets. Shadyia and others must go on a journey to find the answers they need to prevent the destruction of the world. Still, they all their own secrets and this will impact them all in different ways.
This novel was an interesting read and different than what I was expecting. The story contains several plot twists and nothing is at it appear in to be. Beneath every face is a mind that is manipulating others. There is love, action, adventure, and magic in this book.
Shadyia is a prostitute who works at the Silver Rose. She has seen much in her life and came to the Silver Rose after her foster died. She got revenge on the man who destroyed her foster father and enjoys the pleasures of her position at the Silver Rose. She has many sisters and loves one them very deeply, but they are forbidden from using their skills on each other.
When Shadyia kills the uncle of the king to protect her madam, it sets off a chain of events that affect everyone. She is told she must seduce Aaron, a magician. When her madam dies, one the mistresses has a new will forged so she will control the Silver Rose. She despises Shadyia and makes her suffer in many ways.When Vethandi threatens Shadyia, she knows she must do all she can to save the one she loves. She continues to develop her skills as a warrior from a former mistress, who tried to avenge the madam. The Silver Rose holds many secrets. Shadyia and others must go on a journey to find the answers they need to prevent the destruction of the world. Still, they all their own secrets and this will impact them all in different ways.
April 28, 2017
I was giving this book for honest review. First let me just say this book was something very new for me to read. I have read many books. But this one will always stay with me. Shadyia was basically forced into prostitution after her adopted father was killed. The plot and the world building is amazing. The love interest in this book were crazy. I was sad to see a character go. I had a love hate relationship with Makayla how she went about things. I don't want to spoil the book. But I can't wait to see where these characters do in the next book. I recommend everyone read this. Thank you to the author for letting me read something I would of thought I wouldn't like. But now love.
April 29, 2017
By the dark gods this is a good book
There are books that just...this is just good. Like a rpg and a epic in one. I love the girls and hope to see more of them both. U can kind of see the rpg classes but it's not in your face with a list of stats. The plot is good and the ..look just read it. I love it and want more
There are books that just...this is just good. Like a rpg and a epic in one. I love the girls and hope to see more of them both. U can kind of see the rpg classes but it's not in your face with a list of stats. The plot is good and the ..look just read it. I love it and want more
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