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Shadows In Sanctuary #2
Balfor's Salvation
Dangerously unstable and exceptionally violent are definitely not qualities Stacia Dornan looks for in a mate, especially after the harrowing experience of having half of her jaw torn off by an adurian warrior. Yet, when she meets Prince Balfor to discuss a trade alliance between her father’s company and the umbrose, sparks immediately fly between them.
Prince Balfor knows he’s fighting for his own sanity, and with so much responsibility weighing him down, he can’t afford to lose the battle, but when the fragile, scarred human named Stacia accidentally summons him to her bed, he cannot resist her call, despite the complications that will arise when he declares her his concubine.
Balfor and Stacia meet to secure the future of both their species, but their unexpected desire for each other could pose a threat to everything they hold dear. Even as the obstacles that stand in their way seem insurmountable, the greatest threat to their growing love lies beyond the shadows of Sanctuary, where their common enemy lies in wait.
Can Stacia and Balfor overcome their own pasts and prejudices to find love with each other, or will they fall to the enemy first?
Don’t miss the other books in this exciting, steamy romantic series, where the aliens aren’t just humans with a different-coloured skin. They may look demonic, but these heroes know how to treat their mates like angels.
Warning: Explicit content 18+ Contains scenes that are not suitable for younger readers.
308 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2017
191 people are currently reading
175 people want to read
About the author
Susan Trombley
32 books845 followersBorn a dragon, but forced to take human form to fit into those little baby carriers, Susan accepted that she'd have to live a mortal life. She just wasn't going to go around being all boring about it. As soon as she was old enough, she immediately applied for an alien abduction, but got wait-listed, so she made her lair in the desert to wait out the coming zombie apocalypse with a pair of magical cats (they can appear underfoot in an instant, usually at the steps) and the dog from Hades that has three heads (and now has three bodies to go with them).
When the white knight came to fight the dragon, Susan liked him so much she decided to marry him and they now have a beautiful little dragonlet. (Who looks just like a little girl unless you use a magic mirror)
Fortunately, despite being trapped in this dimension, Susan uses her dragon's vision to see all the most interesting goings-on in the multiverse. Figuring they made great stories, she decided to share them with the rest of the mortal world, by writing fantasy, science fiction and romance.
When the white knight came to fight the dragon, Susan liked him so much she decided to marry him and they now have a beautiful little dragonlet. (Who looks just like a little girl unless you use a magic mirror)
Fortunately, despite being trapped in this dimension, Susan uses her dragon's vision to see all the most interesting goings-on in the multiverse. Figuring they made great stories, she decided to share them with the rest of the mortal world, by writing fantasy, science fiction and romance.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
March 9, 2020
I loved the first book in this series but this one, in my opinion, was even better.
This one featured Balfor the umbrose Prince and Stacia, Liliths best friend who was scarred and injured so severely while participating in the Prince's rescue from his enemies.
Balfor is still suffering the effects mentally from his previous incarceration and his Primal (the baser part of himself) is running amok trying at times to take over control.
I definitely enjoyed the very different vibe that this had.
Balfor is much less tolerant of humans than Ranove despite his open fascination with Stacia and Stacia is also not at all what I had originally expected.
So much less hard-work and with much more depth to her character.
My favourite part of this was when we got up close and personal with Balfors Primal.
I really adored the interaction between Balfor and Stacia when he was in this primitive mind-set I think this was when I actually really fell for this couple.
We also get to dig down deep into the Umbrose world learning so much.
This really is a fascinating series with fabulous imagination and world-building.
A sort of futuristic fantasy sci-fi this really is innovative straddling various genres.
This is one series that I recommend highly its a fantastic read.
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
www.beckiebookworm.com
This one featured Balfor the umbrose Prince and Stacia, Liliths best friend who was scarred and injured so severely while participating in the Prince's rescue from his enemies.
Balfor is still suffering the effects mentally from his previous incarceration and his Primal (the baser part of himself) is running amok trying at times to take over control.
I definitely enjoyed the very different vibe that this had.
Balfor is much less tolerant of humans than Ranove despite his open fascination with Stacia and Stacia is also not at all what I had originally expected.
So much less hard-work and with much more depth to her character.
My favourite part of this was when we got up close and personal with Balfors Primal.
I really adored the interaction between Balfor and Stacia when he was in this primitive mind-set I think this was when I actually really fell for this couple.
We also get to dig down deep into the Umbrose world learning so much.
This really is a fascinating series with fabulous imagination and world-building.
A sort of futuristic fantasy sci-fi this really is innovative straddling various genres.
This is one series that I recommend highly its a fantastic read.
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
www.beckiebookworm.com
April 12, 2021
Another solid story with a talent for surprising me yet again. I love the Sanctuary and even though it was a bit insta-love for Balfor and Stacia, it worked. I could see the concubine issue coming from a mile away and just rubbed my hands with glee waiting for the fallout. It almost made me tear up to read about what Balfor did for her.
And the primitive "honeymoon" the 2 of them had, it made the story so interesting. I like seeing Lilith and Ranove again but liked this new couple even better! Balfour is arrogant and smitten- what a fun combination. He is a possessive hero with a few humorous touches.
I also appreciate how each story wraps up for the most part and doesn't leave you hanging, so if you didn't want to continue the series it would be fine.
And the primitive "honeymoon" the 2 of them had, it made the story so interesting. I like seeing Lilith and Ranove again but liked this new couple even better! Balfour is arrogant and smitten- what a fun combination. He is a possessive hero with a few humorous touches.
I also appreciate how each story wraps up for the most part and doesn't leave you hanging, so if you didn't want to continue the series it would be fine.
October 18, 2021
So much better than book 1 (for me) but still so uuuuggggghhh.
I loved Stacia in book 1. She's a badass recolutionary. Unfortunately, this book punished her for her bravery with a timeskip, years of painful facial reconstruction (half her face was mauled off in combat) and weight gain which left her with little to no self esteem. We hate to see strong women lowered by trivial shit like a few kilos extra!
Balfor is a prince. An angry, uncontrolled demon prince. Okay, umbrose. Anyway. He sees Stacia and has the hots for her. She also has the hots for him.
Because she doesn't know how this demon shit works and her bestie, Lilith, who is married to one didn't tell her (thanks, girl), Stacia accidentally summons Balfor by moaning his name during a vived, er, daydream.
Unbeknownst to her, when she has enthusiastic sex with him, she also became Balfor's concubine and has to remain with the demons!! Omg.
Drama ensues. Much, much drama.
Not that there wasn't a plot left to pick up from the first book. But the plot can wait. We just need to have lots of drama and shouting and Stacia behaving inappropriately as a concubine and then Balfor reacting badly and public punishments etc.
What could have been a good book thus became just a trivial string of escalating dwama. Stacia got on my nerves. Balfor got on my nerves. I was looking for the plot from book 1 to resume, and it did, but only by the end of this book rather than right at the beginning.
I guess evil does sleep after all.
I recommend Trombley's Dead Fall series 100 times over this one. Those books have consistent plot deapite the epic romance.
I loved Stacia in book 1. She's a badass recolutionary. Unfortunately, this book punished her for her bravery with a timeskip, years of painful facial reconstruction (half her face was mauled off in combat) and weight gain which left her with little to no self esteem. We hate to see strong women lowered by trivial shit like a few kilos extra!
Balfor is a prince. An angry, uncontrolled demon prince. Okay, umbrose. Anyway. He sees Stacia and has the hots for her. She also has the hots for him.
Because she doesn't know how this demon shit works and her bestie, Lilith, who is married to one didn't tell her (thanks, girl), Stacia accidentally summons Balfor by moaning his name during a vived, er, daydream.
Unbeknownst to her, when she has enthusiastic sex with him, she also became Balfor's concubine and has to remain with the demons!! Omg.
Drama ensues. Much, much drama.
Not that there wasn't a plot left to pick up from the first book. But the plot can wait. We just need to have lots of drama and shouting and Stacia behaving inappropriately as a concubine and then Balfor reacting badly and public punishments etc.
What could have been a good book thus became just a trivial string of escalating dwama. Stacia got on my nerves. Balfor got on my nerves. I was looking for the plot from book 1 to resume, and it did, but only by the end of this book rather than right at the beginning.
I guess evil does sleep after all.
I recommend Trombley's Dead Fall series 100 times over this one. Those books have consistent plot deapite the epic romance.
March 26, 2018
I didn’t enjoy this as much as the first.
May 14, 2020
Love this series. This book is even better than the first one. Can't wait to start Shadows in Sanctuary #3!
February 13, 2019
Okay, so obviously the author took feedback from her first book and focused more on the romance. Only I really, really wish she didn't. Everything I loved about the previous book is gone in this one. There is minimal plot and it's mostly devoid of the world I found so fascinating in the first book. The hero and heroine were okay in this one. While I understand Stacia has gone through some trauma that would change any person, she basically morphed into Lilith. I was excited for Stacia's story because I liked her as a character, but we didn't really get that in this book. She didn't really seem to have her own motivations. I wish we could have seen more of what she went through during her secret resistance fighting to understand her turmoil more. Unfortunately this book failed in both the romance and story portion for me.
From the summary of the third book, it looks like that one will also abandon the world building.
To the author: please continue to write interesting stories in foreign worlds with dynamic classes. The conflicts introduced in the first book were so intriguing, and kept me reading to learn more! You seem to have some really cool ideas floating around, and I can't wait to see them further fleshed out.
From the summary of the third book, it looks like that one will also abandon the world building.
To the author: please continue to write interesting stories in foreign worlds with dynamic classes. The conflicts introduced in the first book were so intriguing, and kept me reading to learn more! You seem to have some really cool ideas floating around, and I can't wait to see them further fleshed out.
December 26, 2021
Beautifully dangerous
I am absolutely in love with this book! The characters are phenomenal and the suffering they endure is as heart wrenching as it is heart warming. I love the long journey they had to take to their HEA and the way they furthered the mingling of two cultures. This book was amazing and I enjoyed every minute of the enthralling tale. I really hope the author intends to continue this series with many more books, there are just so many more stories waiting to be told.
I am absolutely in love with this book! The characters are phenomenal and the suffering they endure is as heart wrenching as it is heart warming. I love the long journey they had to take to their HEA and the way they furthered the mingling of two cultures. This book was amazing and I enjoyed every minute of the enthralling tale. I really hope the author intends to continue this series with many more books, there are just so many more stories waiting to be told.
August 9, 2018
KU
This is the 1st book I’ve read in this series and while I enjoyed it I won’t be reading any of the others.
This is the 1st book I’ve read in this series and while I enjoyed it I won’t be reading any of the others.
December 29, 2019
Very good
I really like this series. Very unique. Strong characters. As always, the love happens quickly and goes against millennia traditions.. but somehow we believe...
I really like this series. Very unique. Strong characters. As always, the love happens quickly and goes against millennia traditions.. but somehow we believe...
December 1, 2021
DNF at 35%. Too much subtle patriarchy and misogyny. Borderline non-consent. Just not my cup-o'tea.
March 6, 2018
Loved it!!!!!
I just loved this soo soo much,and to honest I really kinda needed this....
I found Ms.Trombley the other day after I’d come across a free story with characters who were nice and furry ;)
“Noblesse Oblige “ where the characters were a cat and a
lion who walked around in two legs and wore clothes and other things like a human might but at the same time were still animals,it was Fascinating and different and while I was looking for more I came across Ms.Trombley’s “The Scorpion’s Mate) and I loved it .... a little dark ( but not too much) and different a little slow at times but good enough to where I was left wanting more ...
Sometimes we have low expectations of new authors that can leaving you feeling like a bit of a jerk for judging them but at the same time, it can be such an incredible thrill when your hunch pays off and you discover someone new to spend time with...
Thank you soo much Ms.Trombley this is just what I needed after a book I read last night before this from a once favored writer that went down ( for me ) just a dark path w/her last book it had me shaking and in tears...
Think medium core kink and humiliation crossed w/just enough plot to barely contain enough gratuitous sex, that if it were a action flick your having to try and hear the actors dialogue thru non stop car chases and explosions , if you know the “infamous “ Anita Blake series and how sexual it supposedly is , think of most of the sex in that series trying to be contained in one book ...
Kind of a “Debbie does Dallas” only the doormat heroine doing most of fairy 🧚♂️ and soo confusing at times your not sure who she’s doing just that it’s disgusting and overkill in an understatement....
I know this probably should t be part of a review for your book ,but making myself finish that left me hurting, and with the word “ concubine “ but an ugly one ...
Concubine was a sex slave in that book w/no rights at all and no free will was allowed,soo Stacia and Balfour were a balm to my spirit , Thank you ...
I can’t wait to read more and I’m grateful they can be read out of order because what I like best ;)
Please keep up the wonderful work ❣️
I just loved this soo soo much,and to honest I really kinda needed this....
I found Ms.Trombley the other day after I’d come across a free story with characters who were nice and furry ;)
“Noblesse Oblige “ where the characters were a cat and a
lion who walked around in two legs and wore clothes and other things like a human might but at the same time were still animals,it was Fascinating and different and while I was looking for more I came across Ms.Trombley’s “The Scorpion’s Mate) and I loved it .... a little dark ( but not too much) and different a little slow at times but good enough to where I was left wanting more ...
Sometimes we have low expectations of new authors that can leaving you feeling like a bit of a jerk for judging them but at the same time, it can be such an incredible thrill when your hunch pays off and you discover someone new to spend time with...
Thank you soo much Ms.Trombley this is just what I needed after a book I read last night before this from a once favored writer that went down ( for me ) just a dark path w/her last book it had me shaking and in tears...
Think medium core kink and humiliation crossed w/just enough plot to barely contain enough gratuitous sex, that if it were a action flick your having to try and hear the actors dialogue thru non stop car chases and explosions , if you know the “infamous “ Anita Blake series and how sexual it supposedly is , think of most of the sex in that series trying to be contained in one book ...
Kind of a “Debbie does Dallas” only the doormat heroine doing most of fairy 🧚♂️ and soo confusing at times your not sure who she’s doing just that it’s disgusting and overkill in an understatement....
I know this probably should t be part of a review for your book ,but making myself finish that left me hurting, and with the word “ concubine “ but an ugly one ...
Concubine was a sex slave in that book w/no rights at all and no free will was allowed,soo Stacia and Balfour were a balm to my spirit , Thank you ...
I can’t wait to read more and I’m grateful they can be read out of order because what I like best ;)
Please keep up the wonderful work ❣️
January 10, 2019
Balfor and Stacia’s story
As we start book two, Stacia has had huge injuries she is still healing from. It has changed her typical rush in and take no prisoners personality. Balfor was also severely injured. He also has had some issues with the healing. His primal has taken over too many times and it is starting to affect his ability to rule. Ranove remains at his side, though deeply concerned with his behavior. He recommends a human alliance to him to help with labor issues. Balfor is not necessarily on the same page, but Ranove is recommending Stacia’s father’s company and Balfor remembers her name and the strange powerful connection they made when both were wounded. He agrees to talk to the humans if she is the negotiator.
Stacia is struggling with no longer being beautiful and even being an object of pity. She is struggling with spending so much time healing she is out of shape. She dumped her father’s company having no love for the business that took him from her. Her confidence is shot and she has no goals. Lilith calls to convince her to serve as liaison. She agrees, finding a little excitement in seeing Lilith and a new challenge.
Connecting with the umbrose and Balfor restore most of her confidence and bring her back to where she was before. But where Lilith is cautious and careful, Stacia is not. Again she jumps in dangerously and impulsively without knowing or considering the consequences and has to pay dearly for her actions. The war with the adurians continues with the Commemora continuing to work undercover among them. Life in the domes is now human run and just getting on its feet. At the end of the book Stacia and Balfor have forged a new kind of union and there have been significant changes in the war with the adurians. Again, excellent romance and excellent world building. i remain eager for the next book.
As we start book two, Stacia has had huge injuries she is still healing from. It has changed her typical rush in and take no prisoners personality. Balfor was also severely injured. He also has had some issues with the healing. His primal has taken over too many times and it is starting to affect his ability to rule. Ranove remains at his side, though deeply concerned with his behavior. He recommends a human alliance to him to help with labor issues. Balfor is not necessarily on the same page, but Ranove is recommending Stacia’s father’s company and Balfor remembers her name and the strange powerful connection they made when both were wounded. He agrees to talk to the humans if she is the negotiator.
Stacia is struggling with no longer being beautiful and even being an object of pity. She is struggling with spending so much time healing she is out of shape. She dumped her father’s company having no love for the business that took him from her. Her confidence is shot and she has no goals. Lilith calls to convince her to serve as liaison. She agrees, finding a little excitement in seeing Lilith and a new challenge.
Connecting with the umbrose and Balfor restore most of her confidence and bring her back to where she was before. But where Lilith is cautious and careful, Stacia is not. Again she jumps in dangerously and impulsively without knowing or considering the consequences and has to pay dearly for her actions. The war with the adurians continues with the Commemora continuing to work undercover among them. Life in the domes is now human run and just getting on its feet. At the end of the book Stacia and Balfor have forged a new kind of union and there have been significant changes in the war with the adurians. Again, excellent romance and excellent world building. i remain eager for the next book.
February 27, 2020
I HAD HIGH HOPES FOR THIS ONE BUT SADLY IT DIDN'T HIT THAT SWEET SPOT FOR ME.
BALFOUR WAS LIKE A REPLICA OF RANOVE.
LONG STORY SHORT, BALFOUR AND STACIA HAD A GREAT CHEMISTRY IN THE FIRST BOOK....IT'S LIKE OMG YOU KNOW WHAT'S GONNA HAPPEN WILL HAPPEN and that they are tied together by 'fate'. Unfortunately, meeting Balfour when he was lucid just didn't make me feel anything special. He wasn't distinguished in character, like what was his outstanding and selling point? What made him the Prince of all Umbroves?
BALFOUR himself was fighting with his inner self, called as Primal. After being tortured by the Ardurians, he's pretty much on the brink of breaking and the others worry that he will lose the inner war with his animalistic side. The first time he met Stacia, there's attraction but he also acts like an arrogant, entitled asshole. I guess I don't really like that side of him but of course, he does mellow out later when love catches him by the tail.
STACIA herself is a former shell of what Lilith knew her as. No longer the fun, feisty and sparkly beauty, Stacia now suffers from low-esteem and the scars that mar her face and body makes her feel even more like shit. She's surprised when Balfour requested her specifically to be part of the human and Umbrove treaty...well sort of. That's how their relationship started when she accepted his concubine preposition in the heat of sex.
OVERALL there wasn't much to recommend here, I think the first book explained everything and once you get to here....the originality fades out and you're left with an average story about a male and female just going at it like bunnies. While I like smut, I do prefer one with some sort of actual plot and emotional entanglement or angst or just SOMETHING that reels me in.
BALFOUR WAS LIKE A REPLICA OF RANOVE.
LONG STORY SHORT, BALFOUR AND STACIA HAD A GREAT CHEMISTRY IN THE FIRST BOOK....IT'S LIKE OMG YOU KNOW WHAT'S GONNA HAPPEN WILL HAPPEN and that they are tied together by 'fate'. Unfortunately, meeting Balfour when he was lucid just didn't make me feel anything special. He wasn't distinguished in character, like what was his outstanding and selling point? What made him the Prince of all Umbroves?
BALFOUR himself was fighting with his inner self, called as Primal. After being tortured by the Ardurians, he's pretty much on the brink of breaking and the others worry that he will lose the inner war with his animalistic side. The first time he met Stacia, there's attraction but he also acts like an arrogant, entitled asshole. I guess I don't really like that side of him but of course, he does mellow out later when love catches him by the tail.
STACIA herself is a former shell of what Lilith knew her as. No longer the fun, feisty and sparkly beauty, Stacia now suffers from low-esteem and the scars that mar her face and body makes her feel even more like shit. She's surprised when Balfour requested her specifically to be part of the human and Umbrove treaty...well sort of. That's how their relationship started when she accepted his concubine preposition in the heat of sex.
OVERALL there wasn't much to recommend here, I think the first book explained everything and once you get to here....the originality fades out and you're left with an average story about a male and female just going at it like bunnies. While I like smut, I do prefer one with some sort of actual plot and emotional entanglement or angst or just SOMETHING that reels me in.
September 8, 2021
Glad I gave this one a try … world building still not great but character dynamics much better
⛔️ Warning: if you have not read the previous story, this may contain spoilers.
Last chance …
The world building in the first story is not very good at all, but because Stacia is the best friend of Lilith (the heroine of the previous story) and had long term consequences from her actions taken. Therefore, I recommend that this be read in series order for maximum reader satisfaction and to prevent spoilers.
Just beware that there are a lot of questions not addressed within such as where in time or place the story takes place (i.e. future earth, alien planet , etc.), what happened that enabled the top 2 warriors to be captured, who all of the species are in a defined way, what happened to the person(s) who betrayed them, etc.
That being said, this story is greatly improved in the relationship between Stacia and Balfor, the Prince that is rescued at the end of the previous story when Stacia is injured. The two of them sort of met during the mission to rescue him, but since they were grievously injured at the time, their memories aren’t real clear.
There are a few less grammatical issues in this story, which is nice. Even though my questions from the first story are never answered, I am glad I gave this story a chance and read it. Once I just reconciled myself to that, I was able to just take it as it came and enjoy the much better dynamics and attraction between Stacia and Balfor.
There is tremendous upside to the plot if the author can get the world building correct.
⛔️ Warning: if you have not read the previous story, this may contain spoilers.
Last chance …
The world building in the first story is not very good at all, but because Stacia is the best friend of Lilith (the heroine of the previous story) and had long term consequences from her actions taken. Therefore, I recommend that this be read in series order for maximum reader satisfaction and to prevent spoilers.
Just beware that there are a lot of questions not addressed within such as where in time or place the story takes place (i.e. future earth, alien planet , etc.), what happened that enabled the top 2 warriors to be captured, who all of the species are in a defined way, what happened to the person(s) who betrayed them, etc.
That being said, this story is greatly improved in the relationship between Stacia and Balfor, the Prince that is rescued at the end of the previous story when Stacia is injured. The two of them sort of met during the mission to rescue him, but since they were grievously injured at the time, their memories aren’t real clear.
There are a few less grammatical issues in this story, which is nice. Even though my questions from the first story are never answered, I am glad I gave this story a chance and read it. Once I just reconciled myself to that, I was able to just take it as it came and enjoy the much better dynamics and attraction between Stacia and Balfor.
There is tremendous upside to the plot if the author can get the world building correct.
July 13, 2018
Second in this dystopian/sci-fi/fantasy series
With prince Balfor rescued from the adruians and Back at sanctuary with his cello umberos everything should be good in their world? Right... wrong... having been rescued by his second in command R ( I still suck at names ) Lilith, Stacia and the commemoro rebels 2 years prior..the King finds himself struggling to keep his ‘primal’ ( thing HULK ) side under wraps, he needs to pull it together for his subjects no one knows this more than him... especially when he awakes from a primal rage discovering that he has killed all the Adurian labourers.
With an agreement made in place for an proposed alliance between the umbero and the Dornan industries to work on a trade between workers for materials... Balfor sees this as a way of getting something other than his primal side under his control... his thoughts of the injured private Dornan ( and heir ) of Dornan Industries that have stayed with him since his rescue and her brutal injury at the hands of an adurian. Once meeting their chemistry is uncharted and Stacia finds herself agreeing to be Balfor’s concubine... she has a long way to go to understanding the umbero and Balfor, and subsequently his primal side.
What can I say I’m a sucker for arrogant tortured heros and Balfor is all that and then some. I loved Stacia... she was a true ass kicking heroine and this book just expanded on her already great charachter that we met in book 1.
Another full throttle, action packed, blood thirsty ass kicking romance fest! And ultimately a all round fantastic book!!!
With prince Balfor rescued from the adruians and Back at sanctuary with his cello umberos everything should be good in their world? Right... wrong... having been rescued by his second in command R ( I still suck at names ) Lilith, Stacia and the commemoro rebels 2 years prior..the King finds himself struggling to keep his ‘primal’ ( thing HULK ) side under wraps, he needs to pull it together for his subjects no one knows this more than him... especially when he awakes from a primal rage discovering that he has killed all the Adurian labourers.
With an agreement made in place for an proposed alliance between the umbero and the Dornan industries to work on a trade between workers for materials... Balfor sees this as a way of getting something other than his primal side under his control... his thoughts of the injured private Dornan ( and heir ) of Dornan Industries that have stayed with him since his rescue and her brutal injury at the hands of an adurian. Once meeting their chemistry is uncharted and Stacia finds herself agreeing to be Balfor’s concubine... she has a long way to go to understanding the umbero and Balfor, and subsequently his primal side.
What can I say I’m a sucker for arrogant tortured heros and Balfor is all that and then some. I loved Stacia... she was a true ass kicking heroine and this book just expanded on her already great charachter that we met in book 1.
Another full throttle, action packed, blood thirsty ass kicking romance fest! And ultimately a all round fantastic book!!!
April 16, 2018
Complex Balfor.
I enjoyed this second installment much more than the first book, it's fast paced from the start unlike the previous one which was more of an introduction into the world Lilith and Stacia lived in. There is a connection between Balfour and Stacia which was formed during the end of the first book which plays a large part on balfours feelings towards her. I found prince Balfour to be less mechanical and unfeeling than Ranove. We also get to find out so much more about him, about his past and all the troubles that he's facing and dealing with. Were finally given an explanation on what the primal is as were not given much information about it in the first book. He may have been a bit arrogant to begin with but we're slowly shown a different side of him which was quite caring and passionate. The intimate scenes between them were sooo hot 'n' steamy!!! Sweet Lord those Umbrose are insatiable add to that an endless supply of muscles, tall with a sexy voice and a nifty summoning gift that can let you call your male to your bed no matter where he is; hell yeah!!! I found him to be a very interesting and complex character and with non stop action throughout this book there was never a dull moment. Stacia was a strong and brave female lead and I felt sorry about what happened to her face but did she have to be such a hot head. I mean damn that she couldn't keep her mouth shut at the most crucial times and kept putting her foot in it made me wonder if she suffered from foot in mouth disease!!! I just couldn't help finding her incredibly annoying when she did that and in one particular scene that she started shouting at Balfor in the middle of the street had me cringing and saying omg as I read. Annoying personality trait aside I loved this book with all its many plot twists and suspence which had me riveted and oh so hooked.
I enjoyed this second installment much more than the first book, it's fast paced from the start unlike the previous one which was more of an introduction into the world Lilith and Stacia lived in. There is a connection between Balfour and Stacia which was formed during the end of the first book which plays a large part on balfours feelings towards her. I found prince Balfour to be less mechanical and unfeeling than Ranove. We also get to find out so much more about him, about his past and all the troubles that he's facing and dealing with. Were finally given an explanation on what the primal is as were not given much information about it in the first book. He may have been a bit arrogant to begin with but we're slowly shown a different side of him which was quite caring and passionate. The intimate scenes between them were sooo hot 'n' steamy!!! Sweet Lord those Umbrose are insatiable add to that an endless supply of muscles, tall with a sexy voice and a nifty summoning gift that can let you call your male to your bed no matter where he is; hell yeah!!! I found him to be a very interesting and complex character and with non stop action throughout this book there was never a dull moment. Stacia was a strong and brave female lead and I felt sorry about what happened to her face but did she have to be such a hot head. I mean damn that she couldn't keep her mouth shut at the most crucial times and kept putting her foot in it made me wonder if she suffered from foot in mouth disease!!! I just couldn't help finding her incredibly annoying when she did that and in one particular scene that she started shouting at Balfor in the middle of the street had me cringing and saying omg as I read. Annoying personality trait aside I loved this book with all its many plot twists and suspence which had me riveted and oh so hooked.
July 25, 2018
If you read Lilith's Fall then you are already familiar with the world in this series. This book expands on the theology of the different warring factions with an interesting take on a god of light called Father, a goddess of shadow called Mother, and false gods that abuse power called Lords. This concept is a fascinating blend of the author's idea with some past, present, fictional cultural concepts of deities. I enjoyed this dimension of the story very much.
I like how bits of the world and the various cultures are revealed with each story. It seems there could be enough to sustain this series and possible spinoffs for many more books. I am already curious where the author will take this.
Stacia and Balfor were introduced in the last book. Both carry true personal tragedy that has forever altered what daily "normal" will be and shaking the foundation of their own strengths. This is a typical romance in that these broken people from different cultures find a way to Happily Ever After (HEA). The nontypical parts, the different species, mysterious deities, millennia of war, and a planet other than Earth, are what makes this journey to HEA fun.
I like how bits of the world and the various cultures are revealed with each story. It seems there could be enough to sustain this series and possible spinoffs for many more books. I am already curious where the author will take this.
Stacia and Balfor were introduced in the last book. Both carry true personal tragedy that has forever altered what daily "normal" will be and shaking the foundation of their own strengths. This is a typical romance in that these broken people from different cultures find a way to Happily Ever After (HEA). The nontypical parts, the different species, mysterious deities, millennia of war, and a planet other than Earth, are what makes this journey to HEA fun.
May 21, 2019
My favorite in the series!
This was an epic tale of a alien prince with a destined queen of a new era. I liked this book even better than the 1st. I absolutely love the cover. Hot tempered Balfor and witty Stacia. As with most alien species, they assume that once a woman has given herself to them, that woman belongs to them. Balfor had a fight on his hand when he assumed this.
Balfor and Stacia had a love—hate chemistry, which spiced up the plot and made for and intriguing romance. Balfor wasn’t used to anyone talking back to him, but he was in over his head with Stacia. She spoke her mind.
The plot of the story unraveled into a intense conflict between the two aliens species of light and darkness. Stacia was chosen by the mother to be a part of their world of darkness. She has to choose if she would embrace her destiny.
This novel had the perfect balance of romance, suspense, and an action packed finale that had me on the edge of my seat. This dystopian, alien romance was one of a kind. I'm thrilled that's there's another book to read.
This was an epic tale of a alien prince with a destined queen of a new era. I liked this book even better than the 1st. I absolutely love the cover. Hot tempered Balfor and witty Stacia. As with most alien species, they assume that once a woman has given herself to them, that woman belongs to them. Balfor had a fight on his hand when he assumed this.
Balfor and Stacia had a love—hate chemistry, which spiced up the plot and made for and intriguing romance. Balfor wasn’t used to anyone talking back to him, but he was in over his head with Stacia. She spoke her mind.
The plot of the story unraveled into a intense conflict between the two aliens species of light and darkness. Stacia was chosen by the mother to be a part of their world of darkness. She has to choose if she would embrace her destiny.
This novel had the perfect balance of romance, suspense, and an action packed finale that had me on the edge of my seat. This dystopian, alien romance was one of a kind. I'm thrilled that's there's another book to read.
August 8, 2018
a great addition
This was a great addition to this series. It continues with all the good character and world building, while our heroine and hero in this book seem a little more intense. I like that we get a glimpse of lilith and ranove as well. So this couple is more intense in plenty of ways whether that's in the bedroom , in their arguments or in their sweetness. I also really liked that these two characters both have something personally they are trying to overcome and deal with, that takes time and some self understanding on their parts. Now for the one thing I didn't lime, and to me it seems like this one thing was done to help set this couple a part as leaders. So at some point closure to the end the 'mother' bestows something upon stacks that is really a blessing for her and balfore. And it also helps to deal with some issues that would arise in a relationship with an umbrose and human. That being said it seems at this junction not fair that only stacks and before will get the benefits of a blessing like this and yes I know life's not fair but I like more fairness in my books. But overlooking that one story point overall it's a good sci-fi book and series with action, hot romance, some twists but definitely an enjoyable HE A would recommend.
This was a great addition to this series. It continues with all the good character and world building, while our heroine and hero in this book seem a little more intense. I like that we get a glimpse of lilith and ranove as well. So this couple is more intense in plenty of ways whether that's in the bedroom , in their arguments or in their sweetness. I also really liked that these two characters both have something personally they are trying to overcome and deal with, that takes time and some self understanding on their parts. Now for the one thing I didn't lime, and to me it seems like this one thing was done to help set this couple a part as leaders. So at some point closure to the end the 'mother' bestows something upon stacks that is really a blessing for her and balfore. And it also helps to deal with some issues that would arise in a relationship with an umbrose and human. That being said it seems at this junction not fair that only stacks and before will get the benefits of a blessing like this and yes I know life's not fair but I like more fairness in my books. But overlooking that one story point overall it's a good sci-fi book and series with action, hot romance, some twists but definitely an enjoyable HE A would recommend.
June 29, 2019
Prince Balfor and stacia's story
I have to say although I enjoyed this story a lot I like Lilith's Fall better. Where I completely fell in love with Ranove in the last book it took me a while to appreciate Prince Balfor. Stacia just couldn't seem to control some of her rash tendencies. Together they are quite the pair. Both were damaged in body, mind and heart but together they found away to heal one another and become stronger! There were many obstacles, but in the end their love prevailed! I'm looking forward to reading General Gorzo's story and to see where this series goes. I'm rooting completely for the shadows and the beautiful beasts that reside in them and the sassy strong human women whom they love!💖
I have to say although I enjoyed this story a lot I like Lilith's Fall better. Where I completely fell in love with Ranove in the last book it took me a while to appreciate Prince Balfor. Stacia just couldn't seem to control some of her rash tendencies. Together they are quite the pair. Both were damaged in body, mind and heart but together they found away to heal one another and become stronger! There were many obstacles, but in the end their love prevailed! I'm looking forward to reading General Gorzo's story and to see where this series goes. I'm rooting completely for the shadows and the beautiful beasts that reside in them and the sassy strong human women whom they love!💖
June 21, 2023
Even Better Than the First!
Somehow this book is even better than the first! Which is extremely rare for me, as I usually find series decline as more books are added. There are exceptions though and this is one of them!
I will admit that Stacia and her big mouth and temperament irritated me a lot. It was used as a way to further the plot and it did all end up tying together nicely though, so I suppose I can’t complain too much.
Once again I am loving this world that Trombley has created and written for us to enjoy. I feel like this series flies under the radar and it deserves far more attention than it gets!
Somehow this book is even better than the first! Which is extremely rare for me, as I usually find series decline as more books are added. There are exceptions though and this is one of them!
I will admit that Stacia and her big mouth and temperament irritated me a lot. It was used as a way to further the plot and it did all end up tying together nicely though, so I suppose I can’t complain too much.
Once again I am loving this world that Trombley has created and written for us to enjoy. I feel like this series flies under the radar and it deserves far more attention than it gets!
April 15, 2018
Great book!
I actually liked this one much better than the first one. The world build was absolutely amazing. I loved the twist on the “heaven and hell” theory. The first book made me imagine this series as a parallel universe but now it’s almost like thousands of years in the future. The “lords” being evil and the “demons” being the good guys made this an absolutely amazing read. I felt like the author really started to open up get imagination in this book and the character development was fantastic. Highly recommend this series.
I actually liked this one much better than the first one. The world build was absolutely amazing. I loved the twist on the “heaven and hell” theory. The first book made me imagine this series as a parallel universe but now it’s almost like thousands of years in the future. The “lords” being evil and the “demons” being the good guys made this an absolutely amazing read. I felt like the author really started to open up get imagination in this book and the character development was fantastic. Highly recommend this series.
June 18, 2018
We learn a bit more about the umbrose, the demon looking aliens who - along with the Angel looking ambient - are indigenous to the planet colonised by humans.
Balfour has returned from captivity to run his deccimated kingdom.
Lilith's best friend, ex rebel, now a recluse joins her for trade negotiations and romp toy gets snagged by Balfour.
But Balfor struggles with a beast inside him and finally has to make a decision to join with his feral side to rescue her and convince her to join him as his mate to defeat his enemies...
fab, gripping, smexy story!
Balfour has returned from captivity to run his deccimated kingdom.
Lilith's best friend, ex rebel, now a recluse joins her for trade negotiations and romp toy gets snagged by Balfour.
But Balfor struggles with a beast inside him and finally has to make a decision to join with his feral side to rescue her and convince her to join him as his mate to defeat his enemies...
fab, gripping, smexy story!
January 1, 2019
yeah, uh, the ‘heroine’, Stacia, she needed to die early in the book and be replaced with someone intelligent and mature. Really hard to have sympathy and support for a character who keeps doing stupid stuff and then whines about it until she does something even stupider. That being said, I love the series, so I kept reading on hoping a giant worm would eat her and by the time I got to the end, sadly, she was still the lead but thankfully had matured some. Next book, please!
Again, the Amazon book cover is better though I recognize this one from the author’s blog.
Again, the Amazon book cover is better though I recognize this one from the author’s blog.
January 17, 2020
Shadow management
Personally I enjoyed the first book more, but I was glad to read more about the shadow people as I call them.
Liked that some questions I had from reading the first were answered.
Now as to the Prince and Princess Shadow, my favorite part was there cave primal scenes. Didn’t care for the discipline one at all. As well as her “shock” discovery. Her best friend lived there and no way wouldn’t have told her of the concubines lifestyle, etc.
Overall loved books and looking forward to the next one.
Personally I enjoyed the first book more, but I was glad to read more about the shadow people as I call them.
Liked that some questions I had from reading the first were answered.
Now as to the Prince and Princess Shadow, my favorite part was there cave primal scenes. Didn’t care for the discipline one at all. As well as her “shock” discovery. Her best friend lived there and no way wouldn’t have told her of the concubines lifestyle, etc.
Overall loved books and looking forward to the next one.
January 24, 2021
Different but good
I like this series. The humans are the aliens on a planet where the inhabitants look like angels and demons. The " demons" are the good guys.
The story is pretty much runs where Stacia meets Balfor in the other book. They are separated and then reunited later. They fall in love, fight, and then make up. While you think everything is good between them a disaster strikes.
The story is dark, there is lots of sex, but the story is really good. Can't wait to read the next book!
I like this series. The humans are the aliens on a planet where the inhabitants look like angels and demons. The " demons" are the good guys.
The story is pretty much runs where Stacia meets Balfor in the other book. They are separated and then reunited later. They fall in love, fight, and then make up. While you think everything is good between them a disaster strikes.
The story is dark, there is lots of sex, but the story is really good. Can't wait to read the next book!
April 16, 2018
Loved it!
This second book in the series tells Balfor and Stacia's story. I'll admit I was afraid it was going to be similar to book one where girl is captured and then the two reluctantly fall in love as she accepts her new lot in life, but no not at all! I mean girl does kind of get captured (twice) but she ends up being the saviour Balfor needed in the end and kicking ass in her own way. Can't wait to read book 3, this book definitely peeked my interest in General Gorzo.
This second book in the series tells Balfor and Stacia's story. I'll admit I was afraid it was going to be similar to book one where girl is captured and then the two reluctantly fall in love as she accepts her new lot in life, but no not at all! I mean girl does kind of get captured (twice) but she ends up being the saviour Balfor needed in the end and kicking ass in her own way. Can't wait to read book 3, this book definitely peeked my interest in General Gorzo.
June 21, 2020
Good book, good couple
I enjoyed reading this book. It didn't dwell on the hangups of the heroine and she was able to overcome a lot of crap that happened to her. I hate books where the female character has tons of self-doubt and has a running litany of them in her head almost non-stop. Weak! Stacia was refreshingly not a weakling or blubbering idiot. Balfour was hot and showed his love for Stacia in so many ways but didn't smother her or take over.
I enjoyed reading this book. It didn't dwell on the hangups of the heroine and she was able to overcome a lot of crap that happened to her. I hate books where the female character has tons of self-doubt and has a running litany of them in her head almost non-stop. Weak! Stacia was refreshingly not a weakling or blubbering idiot. Balfour was hot and showed his love for Stacia in so many ways but didn't smother her or take over.
August 9, 2022
heart wrenching and also heart warming.
This is better than the first book.
I love the world building that the plot line is very well written and engrossing.
Balfor and Stacia are both broken physically and mentally.
But they are true soulmates and compliment each other well.
There are sex scenes but they go with the plot and some graphic war scenes. I just skipped ahead a little.
I highly recommend this series and this author.
This is better than the first book.
I love the world building that the plot line is very well written and engrossing.
Balfor and Stacia are both broken physically and mentally.
But they are true soulmates and compliment each other well.
There are sex scenes but they go with the plot and some graphic war scenes. I just skipped ahead a little.
I highly recommend this series and this author.
October 22, 2019
I really loved this book. It had all the delights of its predecessor with so much more.
At first I really didn’t care for Stacia as a character. I didn’t like her in the first book either. However, by the end of the novel I was inclined to view her differently. And Balfor, rawr! He was delicious 😋 I really enjoyed his perspective.
I can’t wait to read more in this series.
At first I really didn’t care for Stacia as a character. I didn’t like her in the first book either. However, by the end of the novel I was inclined to view her differently. And Balfor, rawr! He was delicious 😋 I really enjoyed his perspective.
I can’t wait to read more in this series.
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