What do you think?
Rate this book
Sarazen Saga #3
Sarazen's Betrayal
Cassie had come to Saraz with the promise of a new life, a new home, and a mate who would cherish and adore her always.
The first two promises have been fulfilled, but as the new pride leaders settle into their rule, the threat to the lives of the human hybrid mates escalates. As the pressure to solve the mystery increases, Cassie's mate does less adoring and less cherishing. Leaving her alone to fend for herself day after day.
Leaving her alone to doubt the truth.
Falken's hunt for the identities of the traitors threatening his mate and the lives of all the human hybrids who now call Saraz home, has taken him far longer than anticipated. Sleepless nights spent digging through what feels like insurmountable amounts of data have become nights spent away from Cassie.
Leaving her to doubt their bond. To doubt him.
While they grow closer to identifying the traitors, Cassie and Falken grow farther and farther apart. Betrayal rocks the pride and in its wake, the realization that the threat is far closer to home than they realized. As the shock of that betrayal settles, can Cassie and Falken repair what has been broken between them? Or will the traitors take advantage of their fractured bond and destroy the pride?
180 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 28, 2017
128 people are currently reading
98 people want to read
About the author
Isabel Wroth
20 books422 followersSalutations!
I just wanted to let the folks know that I don't very often find myself on the ol' Goodreads site. I have too many social media accounts to keep up with and a new website.
If you have questions about books, updates, or want to share what's on your mind, you're better off hitting me up via email or Facebook. Or visiting my website!
Happy Reviewing,
~Isabel
I just wanted to let the folks know that I don't very often find myself on the ol' Goodreads site. I have too many social media accounts to keep up with and a new website.
If you have questions about books, updates, or want to share what's on your mind, you're better off hitting me up via email or Facebook. Or visiting my website!
Happy Reviewing,
~Isabel
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
March 7, 2017
This story picks up where the last one left off. However, it’s a story of two individuals, a couple. One torn between proving he is worthy, protecting his king and pride, and eliminating the threat to his mate. Torn in half but keeping her housed in their rooms with a library to entertain her. And the other, wanting her mate but due to past hurts and betrayal, won’t speak up and sets her mate up to fail unintentionally. Growing bored and lonely, she decides she’s had enough and asks to be sent to another sector to do further research….alone....without her mate.
If you followed a few of my status updates, at first I was totally angry with Falken. How dare he leave Cassie alone without her mate and put others before her. Now mind you, this was all from her POV initially. I hurt for her…her pain and distress and jealousy at seeing how the other men treat their women like queens. But as we delved deeper, we see Cassie’s past hurts and betrayals have shaped her perception. And while Falken is not without flaw, Cassie begins to realize she must also take some blame. It does take two to tango you know.
So once again, Ms Wroth has created a nearly perfect hero. You won’t think so at first, but as time goes on you see everything he is doing is for her and the tribe. And he sets out to prove it to her.
Cassie absolutely broke my heart though. There were things we learn of her past and why she is the way she is. That girl totally deserved an awesome mate and family. I actually teared up a time or two as her story comes out. What happened to her was absolutely a form of rape…something taken from her that she did not freely give. And the fact her parents stood by and allowed it to happen, even encouraging it and making her feel guilty for saying no. I definitely had a moment or two of serious raging. I am glad her parents are D.E.A.D.
The storyline and underlying mystery of the persons trying to sabotage the clan is ongoing and new things come to light. Oh man and the ending….Let’s just say Ms Wroth needs to write faster. I need the next book NOW.
If you followed a few of my status updates, at first I was totally angry with Falken. How dare he leave Cassie alone without her mate and put others before her. Now mind you, this was all from her POV initially. I hurt for her…her pain and distress and jealousy at seeing how the other men treat their women like queens. But as we delved deeper, we see Cassie’s past hurts and betrayals have shaped her perception. And while Falken is not without flaw, Cassie begins to realize she must also take some blame. It does take two to tango you know.
So once again, Ms Wroth has created a nearly perfect hero. You won’t think so at first, but as time goes on you see everything he is doing is for her and the tribe. And he sets out to prove it to her.
“You are my one, Cassie. My only. Every beat of my heart is yours alone. When I return, we will begin anew.”
“I wish I could take back every single moment where you doubted my love. Doubted you were not the life returned to me. I waste time with those wishes, knowing full well all I can do is ensure another moment does not pass where you do not know to the depths of your soul, how much I love you.”~Falken
Cassie absolutely broke my heart though. There were things we learn of her past and why she is the way she is. That girl totally deserved an awesome mate and family. I actually teared up a time or two as her story comes out. What happened to her was absolutely a form of rape…something taken from her that she did not freely give. And the fact her parents stood by and allowed it to happen, even encouraging it and making her feel guilty for saying no. I definitely had a moment or two of serious raging. I am glad her parents are D.E.A.D.
The storyline and underlying mystery of the persons trying to sabotage the clan is ongoing and new things come to light. Oh man and the ending….Let’s just say Ms Wroth needs to write faster. I need the next book NOW.
“There is nothing in this universe I will ever love more than you, Cassie.”
“My heart is yours, always.”~Falken
June 4, 2018
While the first book's hero was sweetness personified, Falken's very private, secretive and aloof.
He's unaware of Cassie, except as a sexual releif. He leaves her alone to do whatever she want... He's behaving like no other mate ever has!
Cassie is a spitfire. She's contrary because she's insecure. She's a valuable part of a ship and she resents Falken's treatment.
But Falken thinks that he's doing her a favour, that he's protecting her. So when Cassie explodes he's shocked! Why does she want to do things? Why does she not feel his love and appreciate his protectiveness?
When reading that part of the book I hated Falken. But that was because I wasn't given insight inside his head!
Because, when he's gotten aware of all Cassie's problems, he trasforms in the typical mate: loving, protective and tender.
I like their story, even if I wasn't gushing like during Ohlen's and Andi's! :)
He's unaware of Cassie, except as a sexual releif. He leaves her alone to do whatever she want... He's behaving like no other mate ever has!
Cassie is a spitfire. She's contrary because she's insecure. She's a valuable part of a ship and she resents Falken's treatment.
But Falken thinks that he's doing her a favour, that he's protecting her. So when Cassie explodes he's shocked! Why does she want to do things? Why does she not feel his love and appreciate his protectiveness?
When reading that part of the book I hated Falken. But that was because I wasn't given insight inside his head!
Because, when he's gotten aware of all Cassie's problems, he trasforms in the typical mate: loving, protective and tender.
I like their story, even if I wasn't gushing like during Ohlen's and Andi's! :)
June 21, 2019
Sighhhhhhh well it was unfortunately bound to happen at some point, but I didn't like either of the mcs, the plot took a convoluted turn and I skimmed to the end
1.5* because the h/H of book 1 get their twins!
1.5* because the h/H of book 1 get their twins!
March 14, 2017
I loved the H/h.
I went into this thinking I wouldn't like the h b/c of how she was portrayed as a side character in previous books. Happy to say the h was likeable. She was a good mix of vulnerability & inner strength. She acted her age. No BS immature behavior.
The H was all alpha male with a yummy slice of dominance. He was a loving mate. All protective & possessive.
I'm disappointed the author hinted at the spanking scene but we were never showed the scene. One sex scene was too long. Cutting the length of the scene & adding more plot development would of been nice.
The sex was steamy always a plus for me. The story was entertaining. I bought after reading through KU.
I went into this thinking I wouldn't like the h b/c of how she was portrayed as a side character in previous books. Happy to say the h was likeable. She was a good mix of vulnerability & inner strength. She acted her age. No BS immature behavior.
The H was all alpha male with a yummy slice of dominance. He was a loving mate. All protective & possessive.
I'm disappointed the author hinted at the spanking scene but we were never showed the scene. One sex scene was too long. Cutting the length of the scene & adding more plot development would of been nice.
The sex was steamy always a plus for me. The story was entertaining. I bought after reading through KU.
April 1, 2019
I really didn't like Cassie and Falken as a couple. Way too many communication problems, keeping secrets, fights and silent treatments.
I think it says something that the last chapter was about Tarek and Clary (the first book's couple) and the epilogue was about a new character. I love Clary! She says exactly what I was thinking about Falken keeping secrets from Cassie:
I think it says something that the last chapter was about Tarek and Clary (the first book's couple) and the epilogue was about a new character. I love Clary! She says exactly what I was thinking about Falken keeping secrets from Cassie:
September 15, 2017
OH MY GOD YES!!! Have not been this excited for a book in long ass time!!!
October 18, 2020
Honestly, I wasn't looking forward to coming into an already established relationship. But, I was hoping Cassie's spunk would make up for it. I didn't like it when she belittled her feelings which were justified. I liked her better when she was snarky and didn't take shit.
I was irritated with how many of the men were still sexist. Often when a woman would talk to a man, the man would look at the mate as it to confirm it's okay to speak to them or take their word for something. Instead of addressing the women directly, they often would just ask the other men questions like the women weren't even there. Cassie, had to prove herself over and over. I was glad Clary and Gwen encouraged and supported her.
Falken neglected her, didn't believe in her, and purposely tried to keep her in the dark. (He only slept in their bed a handful of times in 8 months!!) He never even introduced her to his family. She had every right to her temper.
She should have left his ass sooner. I was glad when she went off on him and left him. He had neglected her and kept info from her in the previous books – for example the festival. He ignored her calls but responded when another soldier called him. When she was going through her painful change of the cat, he wasn't there for her until towards the end.
I understand he was busy with work but the complete lack of support to his mate who was new to her cat and planet left me pissed at him. It seemed like he didn't even try to get to know her except for sex. An alien stranger, Ilaria, put more effort into getting to know Cassie's deep emotional scars. Jerk..
Then, to make things even worse, after their fight, Falken shows up after she has been working away for over a week. He didn't make any attempts to contact or console her. He just lived in his own little pity party - knowing he had treated her horribly. The only reason he even showed was bcuz one of her spies told him she was in danger. AGAIN, he had neglected her. Then he drugs her and kidnaps her against her will. I LOATHE this guy. Over and over he didn't believe in her. Even after finalizing the bond, he still misjudges her and questions her intelligence.
He only left work to focus on his mate because he was forced. And then, as soon as an opportunity came up, he ditched her again. He didn't have to grovel or suffer nearly enough. She suffered for months. Then, he returns from being gone and she just forgives him for everything and screws him. Bleh. No thank you. Actions speak louder than words and his actions told plenty. And why did she apologize multiple times for her validated feelings? I don't think she was in the wrong. Meh. I prefer Ohlen. He didn't ignore his mate over his duties.
And spanking/punishing her. Humiliating her on purpose. He even went so far to let the other men know that he spanked and punished her. F that.. She should have bitch slapped him for HIS bad behavior. Did not like the hero at all...
And what the hell was up with him keeping her pregnancy a secret for a month? He knew how her body had been abused, how her previous children had been murdered, and emotional distress about possibly never conceiving. What a dick. I could barely bring myself to finish the book. I scanned it towards the end due to boredom and the hero. If the next one is like this I am done. For now, I am taking a break from this author and series. I may come back to it later. I am somewhat interested in Iliara who led to a kick off series.
Still needs better editing
I was irritated with how many of the men were still sexist. Often when a woman would talk to a man, the man would look at the mate as it to confirm it's okay to speak to them or take their word for something. Instead of addressing the women directly, they often would just ask the other men questions like the women weren't even there. Cassie, had to prove herself over and over. I was glad Clary and Gwen encouraged and supported her.
Falken neglected her, didn't believe in her, and purposely tried to keep her in the dark. (He only slept in their bed a handful of times in 8 months!!) He never even introduced her to his family. She had every right to her temper.
She should have left his ass sooner. I was glad when she went off on him and left him. He had neglected her and kept info from her in the previous books – for example the festival. He ignored her calls but responded when another soldier called him. When she was going through her painful change of the cat, he wasn't there for her until towards the end.
I understand he was busy with work but the complete lack of support to his mate who was new to her cat and planet left me pissed at him. It seemed like he didn't even try to get to know her except for sex. An alien stranger, Ilaria, put more effort into getting to know Cassie's deep emotional scars. Jerk..
Then, to make things even worse, after their fight, Falken shows up after she has been working away for over a week. He didn't make any attempts to contact or console her. He just lived in his own little pity party - knowing he had treated her horribly. The only reason he even showed was bcuz one of her spies told him she was in danger. AGAIN, he had neglected her. Then he drugs her and kidnaps her against her will. I LOATHE this guy. Over and over he didn't believe in her. Even after finalizing the bond, he still misjudges her and questions her intelligence.
He only left work to focus on his mate because he was forced. And then, as soon as an opportunity came up, he ditched her again. He didn't have to grovel or suffer nearly enough. She suffered for months. Then, he returns from being gone and she just forgives him for everything and screws him. Bleh. No thank you. Actions speak louder than words and his actions told plenty. And why did she apologize multiple times for her validated feelings? I don't think she was in the wrong. Meh. I prefer Ohlen. He didn't ignore his mate over his duties.
And spanking/punishing her. Humiliating her on purpose. He even went so far to let the other men know that he spanked and punished her. F that.. She should have bitch slapped him for HIS bad behavior. Did not like the hero at all...
And what the hell was up with him keeping her pregnancy a secret for a month? He knew how her body had been abused, how her previous children had been murdered, and emotional distress about possibly never conceiving. What a dick. I could barely bring myself to finish the book. I scanned it towards the end due to boredom and the hero. If the next one is like this I am done. For now, I am taking a break from this author and series. I may come back to it later. I am somewhat interested in Iliara who led to a kick off series.
Still needs better editing
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 29, 2018
Authors please five us warnings in your book
My review this book was male dominate hero I literally hated him and didn't like the female much better. He punisher her and made her feel foolish for something I thought she did right and at first I liked her by the end of the book I disliked both of them tremendously. So yeah one star
I don't like books like this and really wish authors would give warnings spanking a women foe punishment denying all That not my thing
My review this book was male dominate hero I literally hated him and didn't like the female much better. He punisher her and made her feel foolish for something I thought she did right and at first I liked her by the end of the book I disliked both of them tremendously. So yeah one star
I don't like books like this and really wish authors would give warnings spanking a women foe punishment denying all That not my thing
June 11, 2025
Reread 9/21: I reread this to refresh my memory before picking up The Awakening, which features a secondary character from this book. The first 45%-50% is really good, but it drops off from there.
CW: Forced Sterilization, Rape, Eugenics, Forced Fertility Treatments, Forced Breeding, Abuse, Gore, All the Bad Things
Cassie was born on the Starsong, one of 5 ships launched from Earth with what remained of the human race. Because resources aboard the ship are finite, population control was enforced. Only those women who scored the highest IQs were allowed to breed, while all the other women were sterilized. Cassie scored so high she was chosen as the one to birth the next generation aboard the ship. Only they didn't want to wait for her to carry each child to term, so they sedated her and removed her eggs instead, using surrogates to carry the babies to terms. In an effort to protect herself, she closes herself off from everyone else aboard the ship and spends most of her time alone. When they're attacked by a vicious alien race, it's only by chance that Cassie is saved, along with a handful of others.
When they're rescued by a passing alien ship, and Cassie is told she's been mated to one of the warriors, she's less-than-thrilled, for obvious reasons. Only Falken slowly wins her over, by treating her with respect and making it known that he cares for her happiness above all else.
Until they arrive on his home planet, when he disappears for work and she rarely sees him. She sees how the others treat their mates and can only conclude Falken is unhappy being with her.
Falken doesn't realize how his absences are hurting Cassie, until he underestimates her intelligence and she asks for a divorce, something those of his race have never heard of before. Realizing his mistake, he's determined to prove to Cassie that she's everything to him. Only she's been hurt too many times, and there may be no forgiveness in her.
I actually liked Cassie the least going into this book, but I was firmly on her side once we realized what had happened to her in the past and how Falken made her feel. She was angry and sarcastic, but those were defense mechanisms and honestly warranted where Falken was concerned.
I was really enjoying their story. Cassie was learning to open up to him, and Falken was learning not to take advantage of her or take her for granted. Because of her past, Cassie's independence was important to her, and having her choices taken away was a trigger.
Which is why the book completely lost me when Falken spanks Cassie for a dumb decision she made. Not as part of a sexual encounter, but as punishment. As if she were an errant child. The worst part? Aside from some mild embarrassment, Cassie doesn't really seem to care. And again later, when she's treated like a child by him and others, she just shrugs it off. It was so out of character and made me so angry, I nearly quit reading there. The only reason I kept going was to find out how a certain part of the overarching story played out.
Up until that point, this was my favorite book of the series. That scene and the one that followed completely ruined the story for me. I'm sad and disappointed it turned out this way.
CW: Forced Sterilization, Rape, Eugenics, Forced Fertility Treatments, Forced Breeding, Abuse, Gore, All the Bad Things
Cassie was born on the Starsong, one of 5 ships launched from Earth with what remained of the human race. Because resources aboard the ship are finite, population control was enforced. Only those women who scored the highest IQs were allowed to breed, while all the other women were sterilized. Cassie scored so high she was chosen as the one to birth the next generation aboard the ship. Only they didn't want to wait for her to carry each child to term, so they sedated her and removed her eggs instead, using surrogates to carry the babies to terms. In an effort to protect herself, she closes herself off from everyone else aboard the ship and spends most of her time alone. When they're attacked by a vicious alien race, it's only by chance that Cassie is saved, along with a handful of others.
When they're rescued by a passing alien ship, and Cassie is told she's been mated to one of the warriors, she's less-than-thrilled, for obvious reasons. Only Falken slowly wins her over, by treating her with respect and making it known that he cares for her happiness above all else.
Until they arrive on his home planet, when he disappears for work and she rarely sees him. She sees how the others treat their mates and can only conclude Falken is unhappy being with her.
Falken doesn't realize how his absences are hurting Cassie, until he underestimates her intelligence and she asks for a divorce, something those of his race have never heard of before. Realizing his mistake, he's determined to prove to Cassie that she's everything to him. Only she's been hurt too many times, and there may be no forgiveness in her.
I actually liked Cassie the least going into this book, but I was firmly on her side once we realized what had happened to her in the past and how Falken made her feel. She was angry and sarcastic, but those were defense mechanisms and honestly warranted where Falken was concerned.
I was really enjoying their story. Cassie was learning to open up to him, and Falken was learning not to take advantage of her or take her for granted. Because of her past, Cassie's independence was important to her, and having her choices taken away was a trigger.
Which is why the book completely lost me when Falken spanks Cassie for a dumb decision she made. Not as part of a sexual encounter, but as punishment. As if she were an errant child. The worst part? Aside from some mild embarrassment, Cassie doesn't really seem to care. And again later, when she's treated like a child by him and others, she just shrugs it off. It was so out of character and made me so angry, I nearly quit reading there. The only reason I kept going was to find out how a certain part of the overarching story played out.
Up until that point, this was my favorite book of the series. That scene and the one that followed completely ruined the story for me. I'm sad and disappointed it turned out this way.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 19, 2018
Holy Wow! I just love this series! Isabel Wroth is soon becoming a must-read author for me. Her storytelling is so well done.
Cassie and Falken have been mated for quite a while but because of outside forces, he hasn't been able to spend much time with his mate. This leaves Cassie feeling unwanted, unloved and alone. She finally has enough and gives him a major wake-up call. I loved this part of the book as the two of them slowly began to learn more about each other. We begin to see that they both have reasons for acting the way they do. I loved Falken and felt his remorse for how things became and I think the author did a great job of redeeming them.
This book is not just romance. It's got a great plot about finding the traitors in their midst. The second half didn't pull me in like the first half, but was still good.
Any editing problems I noticed in the previous books were much better. I only noticed a few errors and the dialogue was fantastic.
You'll enjoy book 1.2 the most if you've read the series. It's not really a standalone.
Cassie and Falken have been mated for quite a while but because of outside forces, he hasn't been able to spend much time with his mate. This leaves Cassie feeling unwanted, unloved and alone. She finally has enough and gives him a major wake-up call. I loved this part of the book as the two of them slowly began to learn more about each other. We begin to see that they both have reasons for acting the way they do. I loved Falken and felt his remorse for how things became and I think the author did a great job of redeeming them.
This book is not just romance. It's got a great plot about finding the traitors in their midst. The second half didn't pull me in like the first half, but was still good.
Any editing problems I noticed in the previous books were much better. I only noticed a few errors and the dialogue was fantastic.
You'll enjoy book 1.2 the most if you've read the series. It's not really a standalone.
March 19, 2017
Wow! I really enjoyed this series, but I think this book is a marked step up for the author. I was pleasantly surprised by the emotion, character development and angst in the book. The last book was disappointing because I felt it retold too much from the first story. That was NOT the case here. We got almost all new content. The story of mates having hard times is pretty unique in fated mate stories. It broke my heart, and I understood why she was upset, I also understood why he was the way he was. I was rooting for them to find a way to communicate and get to where they needed to be. I do feel the heroine took a little too much on herself for the lack of communication, but they were both at fault.
I cannot wait for the next story!
I cannot wait for the next story!
March 3, 2017
Awesome series!
I've really enjoyed this fresh new series by Isabel Wroth! This book was dedicated mainly to Falken and Cassie's story. Falken is Tarek's (the leader or Asho) right hand man. Because of treachery and hidden threats against the human mates of the Sarazen from within, he has been negligent in spending time with his mate Cassie. She has hardly seen him since they arrived on planet and feels that he doesn't care for her, much less love her. She also feels he doesn't think she's very intelligent and that he just wants to keep her busy so he isn't bothered by her. Falken hasn't realized what this has done to his mate until she volunteers to go to another planet to research records, leaving him behind. There is much work for Falken to do to get his mates trust back. Thanks them finally working together and with the help of an ethereal being named Ilaria, they are able to start uncovering the traitors. Can't wait for the next book!!
I've really enjoyed this fresh new series by Isabel Wroth! This book was dedicated mainly to Falken and Cassie's story. Falken is Tarek's (the leader or Asho) right hand man. Because of treachery and hidden threats against the human mates of the Sarazen from within, he has been negligent in spending time with his mate Cassie. She has hardly seen him since they arrived on planet and feels that he doesn't care for her, much less love her. She also feels he doesn't think she's very intelligent and that he just wants to keep her busy so he isn't bothered by her. Falken hasn't realized what this has done to his mate until she volunteers to go to another planet to research records, leaving him behind. There is much work for Falken to do to get his mates trust back. Thanks them finally working together and with the help of an ethereal being named Ilaria, they are able to start uncovering the traitors. Can't wait for the next book!!
September 17, 2019
While I liked the book, I would've wanted
June 28, 2022
I honestly didn't like the leading pair much, but I had to give props to the author to make me feel so emotionally vested in their crappy relationship that I would be willing to re-read this again.
March 1, 2017
Finally! More Sarazens!!
I loved learning more about the next set of Sarazen mates. This newest book didn't disappoint. Well written, good story line and characters you can relate to. Please hurry with the next story!
I loved learning more about the next set of Sarazen mates. This newest book didn't disappoint. Well written, good story line and characters you can relate to. Please hurry with the next story!
July 2, 2024
Good book, bad baby name
The book was an enjoyable read, I am just stuck on the name Clary chose for her baby girl and I almost wish it hadn't been included in this book because it completely broke my immersion at the end and overshadowed this book's couple's HEA. I hyper focused on the mystery that is "Lyrala" and fell down a rabbit hole.
My very first thought upon seeing the name Lyrala and trying to pronounce it in my head, was that Lyrala sounded like the name of a medication. You can imagine my lack of surprise then, after I googled Lyrala pronunciation and one of the top search options came up as "Lyrala side effects". I still couldn't find anything definitive about what exactly "Lyrala" is IRL, but apparently there is a very sketchy vitamin website that appears to sell it.
I did however find a Sage plant called Salvia Lyrata (Lyre Leaf Sage) and I had a good laugh about what could have potentially been a typo on the author's part (and maybe that online vitamin company's part) but then I stopped laughing the first time I typed the plant name out in my notes, because my phone autocorrected Lyrata to Lyrala.
I still don't know if my phone's recent access to AI technology has made him sarcastic or typing a misspelled word multiple times frustrates the auto correct and it just gives up and says, "Fine, we'll just spell it your way from now on". (I heard that in Pierce Brosnan's voice, I blame the Simpsons. ...Is it weird that my phone comes off as a he?? Peter Pixel pixeled a pix of Pixels???)
I also started to wonder why autocorrect choose to recognize the misspelled version over the plant's scientific name's epithet and I went down another bunny trench into proper Latin grammar and then the many and varied aliases of this particular Sage plant. (It's funny that I recognized this plant from back home but never had a name for it.)
Overall, Salvia Lyrata seems like a cool plant but a terrible choice for a baby name no matter the spelling. The word Lyrata is an epithet that means "in the shape of a lyre" and that's just weird when applied to a baby instead of plant leaves and I think Clary as a botanist would have known this? *This rant was fueled by ADHD and maybe some gummies.
The book was an enjoyable read, I am just stuck on the name Clary chose for her baby girl and I almost wish it hadn't been included in this book because it completely broke my immersion at the end and overshadowed this book's couple's HEA. I hyper focused on the mystery that is "Lyrala" and fell down a rabbit hole.
My very first thought upon seeing the name Lyrala and trying to pronounce it in my head, was that Lyrala sounded like the name of a medication. You can imagine my lack of surprise then, after I googled Lyrala pronunciation and one of the top search options came up as "Lyrala side effects". I still couldn't find anything definitive about what exactly "Lyrala" is IRL, but apparently there is a very sketchy vitamin website that appears to sell it.
I did however find a Sage plant called Salvia Lyrata (Lyre Leaf Sage) and I had a good laugh about what could have potentially been a typo on the author's part (and maybe that online vitamin company's part) but then I stopped laughing the first time I typed the plant name out in my notes, because my phone autocorrected Lyrata to Lyrala.
I still don't know if my phone's recent access to AI technology has made him sarcastic or typing a misspelled word multiple times frustrates the auto correct and it just gives up and says, "Fine, we'll just spell it your way from now on". (I heard that in Pierce Brosnan's voice, I blame the Simpsons. ...Is it weird that my phone comes off as a he?? Peter Pixel pixeled a pix of Pixels???)
I also started to wonder why autocorrect choose to recognize the misspelled version over the plant's scientific name's epithet and I went down another bunny trench into proper Latin grammar and then the many and varied aliases of this particular Sage plant. (It's funny that I recognized this plant from back home but never had a name for it.)
Overall, Salvia Lyrata seems like a cool plant but a terrible choice for a baby name no matter the spelling. The word Lyrata is an epithet that means "in the shape of a lyre" and that's just weird when applied to a baby instead of plant leaves and I think Clary as a botanist would have known this? *This rant was fueled by ADHD and maybe some gummies.
February 6, 2020
Only half of the book fulfills the promise in blurb. Let's see. Reader is promised a book about problematic relationship between Sarazen and his mate and the beginning lays out the hurt Cassie have been experiencing for last 8 months. Let that sink in. 8 months of abandonment, neglect,hurt,real or perceived. At that point I really liked Cassie, I did. Her defense reactions were understandable. Later on we are shown some of it from Falkens POW and in a clueless, dumb way,he is understandable as well. He still does idiotic things and further damages already badly built relationship. Plot is laid out and reader would expect to enjoy how author solves these problems and misunderstandings, letting our characters to find and love each other again. Except,reader don't get that. I really don't understand the point of laying out the background for how damaged their mate bond is if author never intended to put any work in fixing it. And no,180° of character turn around to kiss,make up and quickly to proceed into pornographic descriptions does not count as building trust and lost love back up. It is unrealistic and basically authors "way out" of fixing the problem she herself created.
So ,in my opinion the book consists of two parts-first is detailed description of failed relationship and second is quick,unimaginative skim over of overall plot evolvement.
Dissapointed and deceived of what to expect from this book.
So ,in my opinion the book consists of two parts-first is detailed description of failed relationship and second is quick,unimaginative skim over of overall plot evolvement.
Dissapointed and deceived of what to expect from this book.
August 31, 2017
Loved it
Love this series. Cassie and Falken's bonding is incomplete. Cassie feels alienated and betrayed. She see what the other women have with their mates and it is nothing like what she has with Falken and doubts their bond is true.
Falken has been Tarek's right hand for centuries, and with the attacks on the human hybrids he is working night and day trying to find the traitors and protect Cassie. He almost looses her through misunderstanding, complicated by betrayals and abuse she suffered on the ship.
Falken works hard to make things right for Cassie. The work well together, combining their skills to find the traitors.
Loved Cassie and Falken's story. Loved Falken's mother. Loved Ilaria, a good friend to Cassie, and to the Sarazen people. Hopefully they will be as good of friends to her in her hour of need. Can't wait for the next book.
Love this series. Cassie and Falken's bonding is incomplete. Cassie feels alienated and betrayed. She see what the other women have with their mates and it is nothing like what she has with Falken and doubts their bond is true.
Falken has been Tarek's right hand for centuries, and with the attacks on the human hybrids he is working night and day trying to find the traitors and protect Cassie. He almost looses her through misunderstanding, complicated by betrayals and abuse she suffered on the ship.
Falken works hard to make things right for Cassie. The work well together, combining their skills to find the traitors.
Loved Cassie and Falken's story. Loved Falken's mother. Loved Ilaria, a good friend to Cassie, and to the Sarazen people. Hopefully they will be as good of friends to her in her hour of need. Can't wait for the next book.
January 6, 2020
3rd instalment in this series. I’m loving the development of the story with its continuing twists and turns. I’m also loving on Falkern... I wasn’t sure what to make of Cassie ( from previous books ) but I’m glad I read this book...it revealed a lot of the pain and heartache that Cassie had experience which led her to put up such a frosty and hard shell. Which made her a realistic character to me. This book almost had an enemies to lovers kind of vibe which I also enjoyed. Any frustration I may of had regarding the main characters lack of communication was short lived once their individual stories unfolded.
Looking forward to continuing on with this series and seeing where the world ( and author ) takes us.
Looking forward to continuing on with this series and seeing where the world ( and author ) takes us.
June 1, 2017
Another sequel but this time, beginning after the other two, so not repeat anything but continuing the story which I was so grateful for.
We learned how not every mating is perfect and easy. I felt so much for Cassie, for all she has been through, for how strong she is to have survived and how much stronger she was to trust Falken. As for him, after a moment of doubt, we learn more about him, his reasons for the ay he acted and we learn to be on his side too. I may not have loved him as much as I do Tarek and Ohlen but I still very much enjoy reading his and Cassie's story.
I am very excited for the next book to come out!!!
We learned how not every mating is perfect and easy. I felt so much for Cassie, for all she has been through, for how strong she is to have survived and how much stronger she was to trust Falken. As for him, after a moment of doubt, we learn more about him, his reasons for the ay he acted and we learn to be on his side too. I may not have loved him as much as I do Tarek and Ohlen but I still very much enjoy reading his and Cassie's story.
I am very excited for the next book to come out!!!
June 25, 2020
Not all Sarazen's are perfect
To start, I expected this book to start like Andi's - from the beginning but it doesn't. I was concered how this would play out but I shouldn't have been worried. I really enjoyed experiencing Cassies and Falken's story. We got to see a Sarazen that wasn't just perfect; we are all flawed. I had high hopes for Cassie and her talents because we know the conditions required females to be eligible for breeding. I was not disappointed and most of her life experiences were heart wrenching. We do see her at the end with a HFN and the plot is progressed pretty significantly.
To start, I expected this book to start like Andi's - from the beginning but it doesn't. I was concered how this would play out but I shouldn't have been worried. I really enjoyed experiencing Cassies and Falken's story. We got to see a Sarazen that wasn't just perfect; we are all flawed. I had high hopes for Cassie and her talents because we know the conditions required females to be eligible for breeding. I was not disappointed and most of her life experiences were heart wrenching. We do see her at the end with a HFN and the plot is progressed pretty significantly.
April 10, 2019
Liked it.
I did like the storyline and the characters. The heroine was pretty fierce, she stood up for herself, expressed herself well and she was smart. I like those qualities in heroines. The hero - well he did screw up. A few times actually. But he admitted to his mistakes and was willing to do the work to make up for it. I found it easy to forgive him because hurting her had never been his intention and he was devastated by what he had caused her to feel. Overall a good read.
I did like the storyline and the characters. The heroine was pretty fierce, she stood up for herself, expressed herself well and she was smart. I like those qualities in heroines. The hero - well he did screw up. A few times actually. But he admitted to his mistakes and was willing to do the work to make up for it. I found it easy to forgive him because hurting her had never been his intention and he was devastated by what he had caused her to feel. Overall a good read.
July 23, 2017
2.5
Of the three books I liked the characters in this one the most. I like that they have a relationship problem despite being "mates". It makes sense for them to not really understand each other given the circumstances. However the ending and the epilogue were all very weak and as usual the word usage was simply wrong. sigh. At least all 3 took me only 1 evening to read. They really are that simple.
Of the three books I liked the characters in this one the most. I like that they have a relationship problem despite being "mates". It makes sense for them to not really understand each other given the circumstances. However the ending and the epilogue were all very weak and as usual the word usage was simply wrong. sigh. At least all 3 took me only 1 evening to read. They really are that simple.
June 8, 2019
Wow! Total roller coaster of twist & turns
This is a fabulous installment in this series! So many developments and a sexy love story that actually had elements of realty. Pulled in all directions and a neglected mate leads to lots of questions and finally understanding. If there were 10 stars rating I would give it!!
This is a fabulous installment in this series! So many developments and a sexy love story that actually had elements of realty. Pulled in all directions and a neglected mate leads to lots of questions and finally understanding. If there were 10 stars rating I would give it!!
October 13, 2022
good story
This author writes really good characters. I would have liked more shifting in this one, but the story was still excellent. The writing style seemed less distracting than the prior 2 books, but that may be me getting used to it. Good story, some typos, mild spice, vanilla fated mate alien romance.
This author writes really good characters. I would have liked more shifting in this one, but the story was still excellent. The writing style seemed less distracting than the prior 2 books, but that may be me getting used to it. Good story, some typos, mild spice, vanilla fated mate alien romance.
April 10, 2023
This book was absolutely amazing. I could not put it down. It emotionally wrecked me. I cried pretty much half the book. This book kicked me right in the feelings and I loved every minute of it. 10/10 stars, highly recommend. The author Isabel deserves a personal thank you for writing this amazing book.
November 18, 2025
This was like over 10 stars for the first 50% and then somehow the conflict became resolved inside of the MCs heads being really reasonable rather than working it out together and then there was weird spanking stuff that just was out of character. It was really a shame bc it felt like author wanted to add random trope like stuff when these books are so unique and far from that.
June 23, 2018
Imaginative
This is one of the better series I have had the p!easure of reading. It is imaginative, emotionally impartial and beautifully crafted. I sure hope that the saga will continue.. I heartily recommend.
This is one of the better series I have had the p!easure of reading. It is imaginative, emotionally impartial and beautifully crafted. I sure hope that the saga will continue.. I heartily recommend.
February 3, 2019
Betrayal
We learn more Sarazen history , we get a glimpse of the traitors motives and our couple has a bond to fix . Betrayal is everywhere . Cassie has been betrayed by everyone who was So we to love and care for her fans she forgive her Mate's ?
We learn more Sarazen history , we get a glimpse of the traitors motives and our couple has a bond to fix . Betrayal is everywhere . Cassie has been betrayed by everyone who was So we to love and care for her fans she forgive her Mate's ?
July 25, 2019
Cassie and Falken
Wonderful story with a great couple. I loved the world building it was fascinating. The supporting characters were well thought out. I would highly recommend this book and this series.
Wonderful story with a great couple. I loved the world building it was fascinating. The supporting characters were well thought out. I would highly recommend this book and this series.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews