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Last Hope #1
Tradition Be Damned
It is the end of days…
Taken from her family at birth, and raised by the mystic Sisterhood, Anne understands she will fight the demons for the rest of her life. Often referred to as the Weird Sister, Anne longs for a life she knows she can never have and dreams of her five guards affections although she believes they hold her in disdain.
She couldn’t be more wrong.
Bryant, Mason, Garrett, Kieran and Milo see Anne for who she is and they’ve loved her every day they’ve known her, although they can never see her face. Fate has chosen them as her beloveds and when the already destroyed world falls apart, they will see they are meant to be…and that maybe all hope is not lost at all. Maybe it is just the beginning.
Taken from her family at birth, and raised by the mystic Sisterhood, Anne understands she will fight the demons for the rest of her life. Often referred to as the Weird Sister, Anne longs for a life she knows she can never have and dreams of her five guards affections although she believes they hold her in disdain.
She couldn’t be more wrong.
Bryant, Mason, Garrett, Kieran and Milo see Anne for who she is and they’ve loved her every day they’ve known her, although they can never see her face. Fate has chosen them as her beloveds and when the already destroyed world falls apart, they will see they are meant to be…and that maybe all hope is not lost at all. Maybe it is just the beginning.
258 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 26, 2017
365 people are currently reading
1057 people want to read
About the author
Rebecca Royce
193 books1,429 followersAuthor of science fiction, fantasy, and the paranormal.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 181 reviews
May 29, 2017
4.5 stars!
October 14, 2017
Not a knockout read, but memorable. Interesting world that is adequately fleshed out. The concept was different than most. I'd never really read any books with this setting so it was refreshing. A different spin on the whole exorcist idea. The characters are likable, and the villain is easy to hate. This book felt a lot like a novella or short(ish) story. While the characters, even the villain, are fleshed out and understandable, it still left much to be desired in terms of character development and closure by the end of the story. It was all wrapped up neatly but quickly. Unfortunately, it seems that the next two books in the series are set with a different set of characters so it's unlikely that there's a chance for any more development for these characters. Unless they get mentioned in passing or star as supporting characters, this is pretty much the end of the road with these specific characters. Sad to say that I probably won't read the rest of the series.
May 30, 2017
4.75 Stars
Great intro to a new series. Liked the Hero's and the heroine. Would have been 5 star if I had more details about what helped/prompted the Hero's to "rip off their mask" and what they did during the year of separation. I also needed more details on how they handled the pregnancy and the birth. I felt like that was extremely glossed over.
Def looking forward to the next one and I'm excited that the author announced it will be out in July!
Great intro to a new series. Liked the Hero's and the heroine. Would have been 5 star if I had more details about what helped/prompted the Hero's to "rip off their mask" and what they did during the year of separation. I also needed more details on how they handled the pregnancy and the birth. I felt like that was extremely glossed over.
Def looking forward to the next one and I'm excited that the author announced it will be out in July!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 26, 2017
This is the first book in Rebecca’s new series Last Hope and boy did she come out swinging. This was a great introduction into this new world.
The world is ending. Demons are taking over and the sisterhood is the last hope for survival. Taken from their mothers shortly after birth they are raised for one purpose: To rid the world of demons. Each sister has her five guards. They are trained to know one thing: Protect the sister at all costs. Someone has been telling lies though.
In this first book we meet Sister Anne. She’s always been a little weird and doesn’t necessarily like to follow the rules of the sisterhood. She’s kind and compassionate where most are unfeeling. Knowing the guards would die for her to make their families lives better, she believes to be hated by them. She comes to find that couldn’t be further from the truth. Anne and her guards take a journey that leads them into danger, sadness and revelations that could change everything. She learns new things about herself, her guards and her overall purpose in life.
Rebecca does a great job of introducing us to this new world. The character development is great and makes you instantly love or hate each character. This series is going to have everything you want. Action, adventure and of course love. We also get a little sexy time that’s not over the top.
This is a story about a love so deep, souls so connected, they would die for her as she would die for them. Not because they have to but because they know life isn’t worth living without all their pieces.
The world is ending. Demons are taking over and the sisterhood is the last hope for survival. Taken from their mothers shortly after birth they are raised for one purpose: To rid the world of demons. Each sister has her five guards. They are trained to know one thing: Protect the sister at all costs. Someone has been telling lies though.
In this first book we meet Sister Anne. She’s always been a little weird and doesn’t necessarily like to follow the rules of the sisterhood. She’s kind and compassionate where most are unfeeling. Knowing the guards would die for her to make their families lives better, she believes to be hated by them. She comes to find that couldn’t be further from the truth. Anne and her guards take a journey that leads them into danger, sadness and revelations that could change everything. She learns new things about herself, her guards and her overall purpose in life.
Rebecca does a great job of introducing us to this new world. The character development is great and makes you instantly love or hate each character. This series is going to have everything you want. Action, adventure and of course love. We also get a little sexy time that’s not over the top.
This is a story about a love so deep, souls so connected, they would die for her as she would die for them. Not because they have to but because they know life isn’t worth living without all their pieces.
June 2, 2017
This is a fantastic start to a great new series! Rebecca Royce does such an amazing job of creating a believable world and characters. I’m usually not a fan of post-apocalyptic stories but this one is so captivating. It’s a great mix of action, adventure, fantasy, paranormal, and romance. I love the character of Anne and the 5 guys who protect her. This book is a rollercoaster of emotions and I feel like the story is just going to keep getting more intense as the series progresses. There is so much mystery in this story that I can’t wait for the next book in the series.
*I received an ARC of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
*I received an ARC of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
November 22, 2018
Tradition Be Damned begins with Sister Anne being known as the "Weird Sister" in her group. She has her five guards, who she believes hate her, and now she must get closer to them because her boss demands it. As things progress, Sister Anne starts breaking all the rules, and ends up learning a lot about herself, and what is really going on.
This book was okay. It started off really great, then I felt like it sort of felt rushed, and fell flat. Other than that I liked the characters, and I'm really interested in the next one, because we learned about one of the main characters from this book, so that makes me super excited.
This book was okay. It started off really great, then I felt like it sort of felt rushed, and fell flat. Other than that I liked the characters, and I'm really interested in the next one, because we learned about one of the main characters from this book, so that makes me super excited.
January 9, 2019
SPOILERS THROUGHOUT:
I really liked this book. It was fast paced and constantly had my attention. I couldn't put it down so I ended up reading it one sitting. The story never went where I thought it was going to go and whenever I got comfortable where the plot was going, Rebecca Royce would flip it around. There were so many plot twists that I was constantly left shocked after. I really liked the world and the magic system. I enjoyed that while the Sisters had a holy cause, there was still corruption among them. It made the story feel more realistic and I liked that very much.
Anne was great. I loved that she always felt compelled to do what was right no matter the cost to herself. I can say without a shadow of a doubt that she was good. While I thought that the principle was unique, I hated that she was considered "weird" because she had a heart. Anne always treated her guards like people as well as her servants. Because of her kindness, she was ridiculed and the other Sisters thought there was something off about her. I felt especially bad when Anne was punished by the Sister Superior so she would "remember her place". I also felt bad that Anne was lied to about so many things. I can't imagine constantly thinking that the people that were sworn to protect my life hated me. I was really glad that each of the guards made their feelings clear to Anne quickly and that that misunderstanding wasn't drawn out.
I liked all of Anne's guards. I felt like each of them brought something to the story. They were also very distinct and unique. I felt like I could clearly define each of their personalities and how each of them provided Anne with something different. I enjoyed all of their little moments with Anne. They were each adorable in their own ways and I really enjoyed the dynamic between each of them and Anne. I also really liked getting a few chapters in their perspectives at the end of the book.
One thing that I thought was unique to this story was Anne's inability to read people's facial expressions. In every other book I have read, the characters are always able to tell what everyone is feelng based on their facial expressions. I don't know about you, but I can't read what someone is feeling just by looking at them unless I know them very well. I thought that Anne not being able to was a very interesting and unique aspect to the story. It made her feel more real and more relatable in a way.
Overall, I really did enjoy this book. I wish that a few things were explained a little more but that's okay. I also wish that the relationships between Anne and her guards were dragged out a little more. It felt slightly insta-lovey and I wanted a little more angst. Besides those slight issues, I liked the book and I will be continuing on the series.
I really liked this book. It was fast paced and constantly had my attention. I couldn't put it down so I ended up reading it one sitting. The story never went where I thought it was going to go and whenever I got comfortable where the plot was going, Rebecca Royce would flip it around. There were so many plot twists that I was constantly left shocked after. I really liked the world and the magic system. I enjoyed that while the Sisters had a holy cause, there was still corruption among them. It made the story feel more realistic and I liked that very much.
Anne was great. I loved that she always felt compelled to do what was right no matter the cost to herself. I can say without a shadow of a doubt that she was good. While I thought that the principle was unique, I hated that she was considered "weird" because she had a heart. Anne always treated her guards like people as well as her servants. Because of her kindness, she was ridiculed and the other Sisters thought there was something off about her. I felt especially bad when Anne was punished by the Sister Superior so she would "remember her place". I also felt bad that Anne was lied to about so many things. I can't imagine constantly thinking that the people that were sworn to protect my life hated me. I was really glad that each of the guards made their feelings clear to Anne quickly and that that misunderstanding wasn't drawn out.
I liked all of Anne's guards. I felt like each of them brought something to the story. They were also very distinct and unique. I felt like I could clearly define each of their personalities and how each of them provided Anne with something different. I enjoyed all of their little moments with Anne. They were each adorable in their own ways and I really enjoyed the dynamic between each of them and Anne. I also really liked getting a few chapters in their perspectives at the end of the book.
One thing that I thought was unique to this story was Anne's inability to read people's facial expressions. In every other book I have read, the characters are always able to tell what everyone is feelng based on their facial expressions. I don't know about you, but I can't read what someone is feeling just by looking at them unless I know them very well. I thought that Anne not being able to was a very interesting and unique aspect to the story. It made her feel more real and more relatable in a way.
Overall, I really did enjoy this book. I wish that a few things were explained a little more but that's okay. I also wish that the relationships between Anne and her guards were dragged out a little more. It felt slightly insta-lovey and I wanted a little more angst. Besides those slight issues, I liked the book and I will be continuing on the series.
May 27, 2017
Tradition Be Damned Last Hope Book 1
by Rebecca Royce
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A INCREDIBLE-fantastic start to a new series. Exhilarating and action packed. WOW! This is a absolutely phenomenal read. It has all of the naughty and wonderful vibes of a Rebecca Royce book. The main characters are quite peculiar yet perfect. The development of this's reverse harem is nothing short of an amazing, spectacular but a sexy thing to read. Their chemistry is really mind-blowing, yet their story is just as dominating of the pages as any sensual scene. I really enjoyed reading this book. There are so many surprises with all the twists in this story. The cast of characters is certainly praise-worthy with the added bonus of so much depth and character development that is normal for Rebecca Royce books. Anne is raised to fight demons for the rest of her life. But she longs for her dreams where her five guards love her not hate her. She knows they call her the Weird Sister. But what she don't know is that Bryant, Mason, Garrett, Kieran and Milo is chose for her by fate to love her. I enjoy that there different parts to this story, it's so captivating, compelling, exciting and entertaining. This story had me glued to my reader, because of its romance, passion, sensual and steamy hot description of the scenes. This story allows me to be grow and be seduced while I'm reading. I have admiration for the books written by Rebecca Royce. This is another jewel to add to her collection. You don't want to miss this book or any other book in this series. I highly recommend this Spectacular paranormal start of this new series to read.
by Rebecca Royce
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A INCREDIBLE-fantastic start to a new series. Exhilarating and action packed. WOW! This is a absolutely phenomenal read. It has all of the naughty and wonderful vibes of a Rebecca Royce book. The main characters are quite peculiar yet perfect. The development of this's reverse harem is nothing short of an amazing, spectacular but a sexy thing to read. Their chemistry is really mind-blowing, yet their story is just as dominating of the pages as any sensual scene. I really enjoyed reading this book. There are so many surprises with all the twists in this story. The cast of characters is certainly praise-worthy with the added bonus of so much depth and character development that is normal for Rebecca Royce books. Anne is raised to fight demons for the rest of her life. But she longs for her dreams where her five guards love her not hate her. She knows they call her the Weird Sister. But what she don't know is that Bryant, Mason, Garrett, Kieran and Milo is chose for her by fate to love her. I enjoy that there different parts to this story, it's so captivating, compelling, exciting and entertaining. This story had me glued to my reader, because of its romance, passion, sensual and steamy hot description of the scenes. This story allows me to be grow and be seduced while I'm reading. I have admiration for the books written by Rebecca Royce. This is another jewel to add to her collection. You don't want to miss this book or any other book in this series. I highly recommend this Spectacular paranormal start of this new series to read.
June 5, 2017
5 stars - So damn good!
I'm a huge fan of reverse harem books and Rebecca Royce in general -- so mixing those two together is one of my favorite things. First with the Wings of Artemis series, and now with this first installment in the Last Hope series. Tradition Be Damned was honestly so damn good.
The premise in and of itself was so cool. It's post apocalyptic and paranormal and super interesting. There's demons. And possessions. And other things that were right up my alley. And of course I loved the structure of five guards to a Sister (thus, of course, leading to the perfect situation for a RH).
Rebecca Royce's writing was just as addictive as always. Even with having to learn about the new world presented in this first installment, I was drawn into the book right away. And from there, I flew through it without feeling like it dragged. On the contrary, actually, I was dreading the end because I didn't want it to be over.
The characters and their relationships were FANTASTIC. I really liked Anne. She was kind and strong and caring. And all of the guys were absolutely worth all of the swoons. They were sweet and protective and devoted and made my heart so freaking happy. I loved reading about them with Anne.
Overall, Tradition Be Damned is a top notch series beginner with delicious RH romance and an awesome premise. I LOVED it, and I am so incredibly pumped for book 2!
You can find more from me on my blog: Stuck in Books
***
LOVED it!! Rebecca Royce writes some of the most amazing RH. Now I can't wait for book 2!
I'm a huge fan of reverse harem books and Rebecca Royce in general -- so mixing those two together is one of my favorite things. First with the Wings of Artemis series, and now with this first installment in the Last Hope series. Tradition Be Damned was honestly so damn good.
The premise in and of itself was so cool. It's post apocalyptic and paranormal and super interesting. There's demons. And possessions. And other things that were right up my alley. And of course I loved the structure of five guards to a Sister (thus, of course, leading to the perfect situation for a RH).
Rebecca Royce's writing was just as addictive as always. Even with having to learn about the new world presented in this first installment, I was drawn into the book right away. And from there, I flew through it without feeling like it dragged. On the contrary, actually, I was dreading the end because I didn't want it to be over.
The characters and their relationships were FANTASTIC. I really liked Anne. She was kind and strong and caring. And all of the guys were absolutely worth all of the swoons. They were sweet and protective and devoted and made my heart so freaking happy. I loved reading about them with Anne.
Overall, Tradition Be Damned is a top notch series beginner with delicious RH romance and an awesome premise. I LOVED it, and I am so incredibly pumped for book 2!
You can find more from me on my blog: Stuck in Books
***
LOVED it!! Rebecca Royce writes some of the most amazing RH. Now I can't wait for book 2!
June 14, 2017
*I was asked to read this book in exchange for an honest review*
I was pleasantly surprised by this book. I knew that I would enjoy it because of the stellar feedback I'd heard, but I was still surprised. I went into it not really knowing what it was about nor about what was going to happen and I was shocked at every turn.
So first off, I like the take on the "Chosen One" Trope. A lot of books nowadays, especially fantasy ones, have the main character as a chosen one or a character who is better than anyone else. This was unique as the main character was taken away at birth to be trained as a Sister. However, many other girls also have this happen to her. And there's a reveal later on in the book that reveals she is not the only Sister to have ever done a certain thing (I don't wanna spoil anything so I'm sorry if that sounds confusing).
I also enjoyed the male characters. Each one was different and brought something unique to the character dynamics. I think my favorite would have to be Bryant *swoons*, followed by Kieran, Mason, Milo, and Garrett.
I'm excited to read the next installment even if it is about a different character. I can only hope that these characters show up at some point so that we can see how they have progressed.
All in all, I enjoyed the book. The writing style was definitely above par and I enjoyed the story and plot. I thought that the main character was badass but wasn't unrealistic in never needing others like some female protagonists I've read. I'm so glad I had a chance to read this book and I hope we get another book from these characters' story.
I was pleasantly surprised by this book. I knew that I would enjoy it because of the stellar feedback I'd heard, but I was still surprised. I went into it not really knowing what it was about nor about what was going to happen and I was shocked at every turn.
So first off, I like the take on the "Chosen One" Trope. A lot of books nowadays, especially fantasy ones, have the main character as a chosen one or a character who is better than anyone else. This was unique as the main character was taken away at birth to be trained as a Sister. However, many other girls also have this happen to her. And there's a reveal later on in the book that reveals she is not the only Sister to have ever done a certain thing (I don't wanna spoil anything so I'm sorry if that sounds confusing).
I also enjoyed the male characters. Each one was different and brought something unique to the character dynamics. I think my favorite would have to be Bryant *swoons*, followed by Kieran, Mason, Milo, and Garrett.
I'm excited to read the next installment even if it is about a different character. I can only hope that these characters show up at some point so that we can see how they have progressed.
All in all, I enjoyed the book. The writing style was definitely above par and I enjoyed the story and plot. I thought that the main character was badass but wasn't unrealistic in never needing others like some female protagonists I've read. I'm so glad I had a chance to read this book and I hope we get another book from these characters' story.
January 14, 2018
I liked this just enough to try the sequel but just barely as it had a lot of issues. This was like a dystopian vanilla version of laurell k Hamilton's merry gentry series. The world as interesting but I barely understood anything that was going on because the author never explained anything. The whole pseudo nun order thing creeped me out too. I'm not Christian but it felt a little perverse to use the Catholic terminology but then also have magic and polyamory. I also thought that the men were a little interchangeable. Like I had a hard time keeping track of who was who because other than physical descriptors in the first chapter the author does nothing to really make them distinct personalities from each other. I want to say that this author shows a lot of promise but it appears that this is a later work so I worry that all her books will be this way. Her imagination is stellar but the transitional scenes were sometimes shaky and she needed to do a better job balancing the action and explanations. I'm giving this second one a try hoping to get more answers but I'm already a little disappointed that it'll be a different set of protagonists because this story didn't feel quite finished.
May 25, 2017
I was given a complementary copy of this book by the author in exchange for my honest review and this is it.
Wow!Really Wow!!!!
Its been a long time since i have read a so damn powerfull book.
This is the first book of the series (a new series) and i can tells you that it doesn't
disappoint at all.
Most of the times i read a first book i am holding back cause i know the authors have to get into the new characters and the new book and all but damn ...Rebecca Royce never fails me!
A paranormal reverse harem mystery book that was totally amazing with really well written characters and amazing world building .
I have to admit that at times i was confused trying to understand what was happening but when the whole picture slowly built i was really super happy to have read this book.
Action packed this book has lots of demons and excorsisms and horrors but also has love and unity and strength.
I really can't wait to read the next book in the series!!!
A great start for a very promising new series.
Wow!Really Wow!!!!
Its been a long time since i have read a so damn powerfull book.
This is the first book of the series (a new series) and i can tells you that it doesn't
disappoint at all.
Most of the times i read a first book i am holding back cause i know the authors have to get into the new characters and the new book and all but damn ...Rebecca Royce never fails me!
A paranormal reverse harem mystery book that was totally amazing with really well written characters and amazing world building .
I have to admit that at times i was confused trying to understand what was happening but when the whole picture slowly built i was really super happy to have read this book.
Action packed this book has lots of demons and excorsisms and horrors but also has love and unity and strength.
I really can't wait to read the next book in the series!!!
A great start for a very promising new series.
May 26, 2017
This is a really interesting new series. I am always surprised and impressed with the creativity of the author.
In this case, we have a young woman who is living a life devoted to killing demons. The Sisterhood is run by her aunt who is not a warm and loving person. They take children from their homes and raise them to work as demon killers. Annie is not like the rest. She really cares about people and her five guards who are known to her by number only.
Annie starts to awaken and realize that she needs to do something to help others. She forms an attachment to her guards and learns that Bryant, Mason, Garrett, Kieran and Milo are devoted to her.
There lots of surprises as they all journey together. I really was enthralled by the story and excited to see what would happen to them all. It kept me guessing. There is some really heartache but also a lot of love too. I am very eager to read the next books in the series.
I am voluntarily reviewing a copy I received.
In this case, we have a young woman who is living a life devoted to killing demons. The Sisterhood is run by her aunt who is not a warm and loving person. They take children from their homes and raise them to work as demon killers. Annie is not like the rest. She really cares about people and her five guards who are known to her by number only.
Annie starts to awaken and realize that she needs to do something to help others. She forms an attachment to her guards and learns that Bryant, Mason, Garrett, Kieran and Milo are devoted to her.
There lots of surprises as they all journey together. I really was enthralled by the story and excited to see what would happen to them all. It kept me guessing. There is some really heartache but also a lot of love too. I am very eager to read the next books in the series.
I am voluntarily reviewing a copy I received.
May 28, 2017
Not a fan of the storytelling
This book had potential, but I really could not stand the writing style/storytelling. Entire chunks of time were skipped over , then they would go back and real quick day what happened. It was very convoluted and confusing. Unfortunately, this happened to be an example of an RH where the guys all run together. They have no distinct personalities.
Overall, I recommend skipping this one. There are better-written RH novels out there.
This book had potential, but I really could not stand the writing style/storytelling. Entire chunks of time were skipped over , then they would go back and real quick day what happened. It was very convoluted and confusing. Unfortunately, this happened to be an example of an RH where the guys all run together. They have no distinct personalities.
Overall, I recommend skipping this one. There are better-written RH novels out there.
May 28, 2017
I am a huge fan of the paranormal and post apocalyptic genre. This book surprised me in the best way possible. I love love love the new world that the author created. Not only do you have demons and spirits and angels, but it's Reverse Harem and filled with hot guys! It's got action, love, and steam. Stop reading this to go click the buy button. You won't be disappointed!
May 27, 2017
Enjoyable
I enjoyed the new paranormal work Rebecca Royce is building here. Im looking forward to the next one. Would recommend
I enjoyed the new paranormal work Rebecca Royce is building here. Im looking forward to the next one. Would recommend
February 23, 2018
Great
This was a great story. Something I haven’t read before and I read a lot! I am so glad they all ended up together but so sad she had to suffer first.
This was a great story. Something I haven’t read before and I read a lot! I am so glad they all ended up together but so sad she had to suffer first.
November 7, 2020
Anne is a Sister - someone chosen from birth for their special powers to exorcise demons. She lives secluded away from the rest of society with the Sisterhood, and she is closely guarded by five guards sworn to protect her. But the life of a Sister is not an easy one - they rarely interact with anyone outside of the Sisterhood, and even when interacting with their guards, names are not used, and a hood is used to prevent anyone but a fellow Sister from seeing their faces.
---
Okay, I really, really wanted to like this one. I really did. The plot and world building was absolutely fascinating, and I really wished the author could've focused more on that aspect of the book rather than the romance with Anne's five guards. In fact, I would've totally read this if romance wasn't even one of its genres because everything else about this was that interesting! I want to know more about the Sisters, and life within the Sisterhood. I would love to know more about just the world in general and how the people are living and how they are affected by the demons. I want to know more about Anne's life. But instead, the world building is minor at best, and most of the energy is focused on Anne's relationship with her five guards.
Which brings me to what I really did not like - the romance. This is a reverse harem. Given, I'm not usually a fan of polyamorous books because it's really hard to make everyone equally likeable - or give them enough screen time to truly flesh out their characters and develop their relationship with the main character. Which is one of the main issues I had with this book - there are 5 guards, and I just could not keep track of them. No one was unique, no one stood out, and most times, I found them to be interchangeable. It's also very difficult to believe that Anne would love all of them in such a short amount of time (although I guess the author gets a small pass on that one, because they're supposedly bound by fate).
I also hated the speaking lines. They were so cheesy... I just couldn't stand them. They didn't sound like real people talking and sounded more like what a teenager trying to write romance novel would have her characters say.
I think I will have to give the next book in the series a try just to see where the plot develops because I feel like there are bigger things ahead. I just hope the dialogue improves, because that would make these books so much more bearable.
---
Okay, I really, really wanted to like this one. I really did. The plot and world building was absolutely fascinating, and I really wished the author could've focused more on that aspect of the book rather than the romance with Anne's five guards. In fact, I would've totally read this if romance wasn't even one of its genres because everything else about this was that interesting! I want to know more about the Sisters, and life within the Sisterhood. I would love to know more about just the world in general and how the people are living and how they are affected by the demons. I want to know more about Anne's life. But instead, the world building is minor at best, and most of the energy is focused on Anne's relationship with her five guards.
Which brings me to what I really did not like - the romance. This is a reverse harem. Given, I'm not usually a fan of polyamorous books because it's really hard to make everyone equally likeable - or give them enough screen time to truly flesh out their characters and develop their relationship with the main character. Which is one of the main issues I had with this book - there are 5 guards, and I just could not keep track of them. No one was unique, no one stood out, and most times, I found them to be interchangeable. It's also very difficult to believe that Anne would love all of them in such a short amount of time (although I guess the author gets a small pass on that one, because they're supposedly bound by fate).
I also hated the speaking lines. They were so cheesy... I just couldn't stand them. They didn't sound like real people talking and sounded more like what a teenager trying to write romance novel would have her characters say.
I think I will have to give the next book in the series a try just to see where the plot develops because I feel like there are bigger things ahead. I just hope the dialogue improves, because that would make these books so much more bearable.
September 22, 2019
Such a cool plot! This was very unique. I loved the development of the characters and the world. Demon slaying to save the world yet finding out that some demon slayers are actually not good? That was so interesting to read!
I will eventually read more in this series, but this is the type of series that switches the focus to other characters with each new book. Right now I'm sad about leaving the characters I just read about to switch to Teagan, even though she deserves a HEA too. I'll read her story eventually.
I will eventually read more in this series, but this is the type of series that switches the focus to other characters with each new book. Right now I'm sad about leaving the characters I just read about to switch to Teagan, even though she deserves a HEA too. I'll read her story eventually.
April 26, 2022
interesting
This is an odd sort of reverse harem, one that is weaving an end of times mythology as the narrative advances. Much of the character growth almost happens in the background, with pivotal moments appearing in touches and tie bits - much smaller in scope than they should be. The love that should grow has long since sprouted and we just catch up as the group remembers.
It’s unique, a med/fast burn that somehow doesn’t feel fast at all.
This is an odd sort of reverse harem, one that is weaving an end of times mythology as the narrative advances. Much of the character growth almost happens in the background, with pivotal moments appearing in touches and tie bits - much smaller in scope than they should be. The love that should grow has long since sprouted and we just catch up as the group remembers.
It’s unique, a med/fast burn that somehow doesn’t feel fast at all.
February 11, 2018
Loved this!
Want to read
April 13, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon today (4/13/2020)! 🎁
May 23, 2017
Tradition Be Damned' is a new series by Rebecca Royce. It is set in a dystopian society during the End of Days. The female lead, Sister Anne, is part of a Sisterhood of women born with the magical ability to see and exorcise the demons that are now running rampant throughout the world. She has five male guards whose only duty is to protect her with their lives while she is exorcising the demons. As usual, with a non-traditional story by Royce, that is only the tip of the iceberg and there is more going on than anyone knows or believes.
This is also a reverse-harem love story. Sister Anne's five guards, named One through Five, are prepared to do anything during their ten years of service to the Sisterhood. No spoilers here, so you will have to read the book to find out exactly what that entails, and why they are willing to sacrifice their lives to begin with.
I really enjoyed this story even though it is told almost completely in the first person point of view of Sister Anne. Having read other reverse-harem stories by Royce, I have to admit that it is really the only way it can work in this particular story setting. There are just too many love interests with all the men to be constantly going back and forth between all the characters.
The story starts off immediately right in the middle of the End of Days, so it takes a bit to understand the background involved in this world. My only real complaint, and it is a little one, is that I wish Rebecca had fleshed out the backstory to this world a little more fully at the beginning so I didn't feel like I had just been dropped into the middle of a series. It does eventually work itself out, but it would have been nice to experience a bit more of the history before getting too involved in the storyline.
Sister Anne and her men are great. There are several hot and steamy love scenes between her and each of her men individually. It works for this type of story. We finally learn her guards real names; Bryant, Mason, Garrett, Kieran and Milo are all different but they all agree their priority is to love and protect Anne as her foretold beloveds.
There was a little bit of an awkward scene at the end when Anne finally meets her mother. I really hope that storyline will be fleshed out a bit more in the future books. I am looking forward to Teagan and her men's story 'Past Be Damned.' I don't know when it will be out, but hopefully the wait isn't too long.
So if you want to try a different type of love story in a reverse-harem setting with some hunky men, give this book a try. I don't think you will be disappointed.
This is also a reverse-harem love story. Sister Anne's five guards, named One through Five, are prepared to do anything during their ten years of service to the Sisterhood. No spoilers here, so you will have to read the book to find out exactly what that entails, and why they are willing to sacrifice their lives to begin with.
I really enjoyed this story even though it is told almost completely in the first person point of view of Sister Anne. Having read other reverse-harem stories by Royce, I have to admit that it is really the only way it can work in this particular story setting. There are just too many love interests with all the men to be constantly going back and forth between all the characters.
The story starts off immediately right in the middle of the End of Days, so it takes a bit to understand the background involved in this world. My only real complaint, and it is a little one, is that I wish Rebecca had fleshed out the backstory to this world a little more fully at the beginning so I didn't feel like I had just been dropped into the middle of a series. It does eventually work itself out, but it would have been nice to experience a bit more of the history before getting too involved in the storyline.
Sister Anne and her men are great. There are several hot and steamy love scenes between her and each of her men individually. It works for this type of story. We finally learn her guards real names; Bryant, Mason, Garrett, Kieran and Milo are all different but they all agree their priority is to love and protect Anne as her foretold beloveds.
There was a little bit of an awkward scene at the end when Anne finally meets her mother. I really hope that storyline will be fleshed out a bit more in the future books. I am looking forward to Teagan and her men's story 'Past Be Damned.' I don't know when it will be out, but hopefully the wait isn't too long.
So if you want to try a different type of love story in a reverse-harem setting with some hunky men, give this book a try. I don't think you will be disappointed.
March 15, 2018
This book irritated me. The heroine had such an inferiority complex for one so superbly gifted. She was all ‘you must hate me, I don’t understand why you’d be with me, you are all so amazing and don’t deserve to have me dragging you down’.
Plus, she asked each one of them where they were from, why they became a guard, and then later she asked what was their dream after their service. This doesn’t sound bad, but when you consider she asked each one of them these questions individually and it took two separate occasions for each one. It got tedious and sounded stilted, since there were 5 of them.
There was also ton of ‘you all are amazing’ and ‘no, you’re the amazing one.’ I don’t know how many men she needs to keep telling her she’s wonderful, before it sinks in. But she had 5, and it still took awhile and some trauma before she started getting it. And she was such a Mary Sue that I still don’t get it.
Minor Spoiler
Her mother was forced to give her up in the prologue. This is a reoccurring theme. At first, she feels ashamed her mother fought to keep her instead of just selling her off for the greater good, but in the end, she understands why. So her mom shows up in the last couple of pages, but she just tells her she’s wonderful then Ann goes into labor. Their interaction was teeny, tiny for something that was discussed so much of the book. It was ridiculous. I felt bad for her poor mom, and for that to be the entirety of their interactions really bothered me. Ann didn’t really say anything back to her mom. It would better if she hadn’t shown back up at all.
Plus, she asked each one of them where they were from, why they became a guard, and then later she asked what was their dream after their service. This doesn’t sound bad, but when you consider she asked each one of them these questions individually and it took two separate occasions for each one. It got tedious and sounded stilted, since there were 5 of them.
There was also ton of ‘you all are amazing’ and ‘no, you’re the amazing one.’ I don’t know how many men she needs to keep telling her she’s wonderful, before it sinks in. But she had 5, and it still took awhile and some trauma before she started getting it. And she was such a Mary Sue that I still don’t get it.
Minor Spoiler
Her mother was forced to give her up in the prologue. This is a reoccurring theme. At first, she feels ashamed her mother fought to keep her instead of just selling her off for the greater good, but in the end, she understands why. So her mom shows up in the last couple of pages, but she just tells her she’s wonderful then Ann goes into labor. Their interaction was teeny, tiny for something that was discussed so much of the book. It was ridiculous. I felt bad for her poor mom, and for that to be the entirety of their interactions really bothered me. Ann didn’t really say anything back to her mom. It would better if she hadn’t shown back up at all.
May 17, 2017
Fantastic! Rebecca Royce never disappoints and this book is no exception. Tradition Be Damned is sensational.
It's the end of days. Demons roam the earth, destroying, possessing. Anne was taken at birth as a gifted daughter to be one of the Sisterhood, the Order that fights demons. Each Sister lives a strict life of rules, remaining covered head to toe, never allowed freedom, and protected by a group of 5 guards. These guards pledge their lives for their Sister, but don't speak to them unnecessarily or even see their faces, although they do provide sexual release if called upon. It's a lonely, grueling existence for the Sister if she survives. Anne is the strongest of the sisters, but she is not like the others. She's the "weird one". She doesn't use her guards for sex, she worries for their safety, she's kind. She's also convinced that her guards hate her. She's so wrong! Her guards, Bryant, Mason, Garrett, Kieran and Milo adore her. They want nothing more than her safety and happiness.
Anne is such a complex character. She holds such power and strength, yet she doesn't know her own worth. She believes herself to be ugly and an embarrasment. She is so full of light, kindness, and love, but so insecure, so easily hurt. She's so easy to love. The guards were all great characters, but I would have liked a little more time with each. Once Anne started breaking tradition and disobeying the set Sister rules, she made a point to find out each guard's background and future dreams. This was good, but more individual time would have been even better.
This is a delightful, engrossing story. Fast paced and well-written. It's clever and original. There's suspense and danger, lies and betrayals, passion, affection and deep love, sadness, anger, and finally hope. It's a read-all-night kind of book. I can't recommend it enough. If you enjoy Reverse Harems, if you enjoy the Supernatural, this is the book for you. So, so good! I look forward to the next book in the Last Hope series.
It's the end of days. Demons roam the earth, destroying, possessing. Anne was taken at birth as a gifted daughter to be one of the Sisterhood, the Order that fights demons. Each Sister lives a strict life of rules, remaining covered head to toe, never allowed freedom, and protected by a group of 5 guards. These guards pledge their lives for their Sister, but don't speak to them unnecessarily or even see their faces, although they do provide sexual release if called upon. It's a lonely, grueling existence for the Sister if she survives. Anne is the strongest of the sisters, but she is not like the others. She's the "weird one". She doesn't use her guards for sex, she worries for their safety, she's kind. She's also convinced that her guards hate her. She's so wrong! Her guards, Bryant, Mason, Garrett, Kieran and Milo adore her. They want nothing more than her safety and happiness.
Anne is such a complex character. She holds such power and strength, yet she doesn't know her own worth. She believes herself to be ugly and an embarrasment. She is so full of light, kindness, and love, but so insecure, so easily hurt. She's so easy to love. The guards were all great characters, but I would have liked a little more time with each. Once Anne started breaking tradition and disobeying the set Sister rules, she made a point to find out each guard's background and future dreams. This was good, but more individual time would have been even better.
This is a delightful, engrossing story. Fast paced and well-written. It's clever and original. There's suspense and danger, lies and betrayals, passion, affection and deep love, sadness, anger, and finally hope. It's a read-all-night kind of book. I can't recommend it enough. If you enjoy Reverse Harems, if you enjoy the Supernatural, this is the book for you. So, so good! I look forward to the next book in the Last Hope series.
July 25, 2017
So I’m a huge Rebecca Royce fan. I’ve only just discovered her in the past few months and I have been binge reading anything I can get my hands on (stupid book allowance). I didn’t think anything could top her Wings of Artemis series for me. Until now. I just finished reading Tradition Be Damned. And damn, I’m impressed. The unique world building, the mythos, and the characters are all extraordinary. Now I’m not a huge fan of the dystopian/apocalypse genre. I got burnt out on them a few years ago when it seemed everyone was writing one. So I typically don’t read a blurb and go “hell yeah!” So I was merely intrigued by this blurb. Then I delved in and fell in love. I have a feeling this is going to be my favorite of her series.
There’s demons and possessions and fate, oh my! Anne is strong, compassionate, and different from others like her. She treats her guards with kindness despite feeling as if they hate her. Her guards are anything but hateful. The relationship between the six of them is well-developed. There’s plenty of chemistry and some sensual sex scenes. The connection is almost palpable. The characters are all well-developed and complex. Even the secondary characters will either drive you to love them, hate them, or feel sorry for them.
With plenty of exciting action and nail biting intrigue, this is one for the re-read list. If you’re new to Royce, new to the reverse harem genre, or even if you’re an old hand at them all, this is definitely one to pick up. I’d recommend it to anyone.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
For more reviews, visit
There’s demons and possessions and fate, oh my! Anne is strong, compassionate, and different from others like her. She treats her guards with kindness despite feeling as if they hate her. Her guards are anything but hateful. The relationship between the six of them is well-developed. There’s plenty of chemistry and some sensual sex scenes. The connection is almost palpable. The characters are all well-developed and complex. Even the secondary characters will either drive you to love them, hate them, or feel sorry for them.
With plenty of exciting action and nail biting intrigue, this is one for the re-read list. If you’re new to Royce, new to the reverse harem genre, or even if you’re an old hand at them all, this is definitely one to pick up. I’d recommend it to anyone.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
For more reviews, visit
May 28, 2017
This was so freaking awesome! I was so wowed by Rebecca Royce's new RH series. And it was a fantastic start! I really love her Wings of Artemis series and her Cascade series but this is even better! And she's gotten even better at making her characters seem real, have different personality, characteristics and voices.
When you first read Tradition be Damned the world is in a post apocolaptic state, and it's only getting worse. The only thing that really can combat these Demons are the Sisters, and their five guards who protect them.
Our main character is Sister Anne, and like all sisters was taken from her family at birth, but unlike others her mother didn't give her up willingly. This along with others make her the Weird Sister. Anne was taught that her guards hate her, because they are obligated to her. But this isn't true. Things aren't necessarily all good and true at The Sisterhood...
There is action and adventure, love and the building relationship between Anne and her men, no longer numbers to her, not just her guards but her loves. She doesn't just build them up but also lift her up. This is a fantastic new world and I love it so much! Can't wait for the next installment, which is around July/August.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review
When you first read Tradition be Damned the world is in a post apocolaptic state, and it's only getting worse. The only thing that really can combat these Demons are the Sisters, and their five guards who protect them.
Our main character is Sister Anne, and like all sisters was taken from her family at birth, but unlike others her mother didn't give her up willingly. This along with others make her the Weird Sister. Anne was taught that her guards hate her, because they are obligated to her. But this isn't true. Things aren't necessarily all good and true at The Sisterhood...
There is action and adventure, love and the building relationship between Anne and her men, no longer numbers to her, not just her guards but her loves. She doesn't just build them up but also lift her up. This is a fantastic new world and I love it so much! Can't wait for the next installment, which is around July/August.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review
June 30, 2017
Rebecca Royce has managed to write something so out of this world, different, their are no comparisons to it! I always say, she shows through her writing what's in her heart and soul, and gives it all to us. She most definitely gave it to us again, with Tradition be Damned!
You would think with all that I said up there, that there wouldn't be a way for Rebecca to make this book even better... you would be wrong! It's a "Reverse Harem" to boot! You can't call for anymore excellence than that. I'm sure all my Reverse Harem peeps out there are nodding their heads. Take my word for it, if your one of the few who haven't read a Reverse Harem Story or even one of Rebecca Royce's, Reverse Harem Stories, then you are truly missing out and need to get that ball rolling. (And quick!)
Tradition be Damned is vastly different then anything I've read before. (That's a good thing!) I read it straight through in one sitting, or rather at the edge of my seat, not being able to turn my kindle page fast enough so I can just get "MORE"!
I 100% you get your fingers on this and book 2 will be released on July 18th, 2017. Not much of a wait if your like me and ready for book 2, like yesterday!
***I voluntarily reviewed this advanced reader copy.***
Laura Redmon
Cutting Muse Blog Review
You would think with all that I said up there, that there wouldn't be a way for Rebecca to make this book even better... you would be wrong! It's a "Reverse Harem" to boot! You can't call for anymore excellence than that. I'm sure all my Reverse Harem peeps out there are nodding their heads. Take my word for it, if your one of the few who haven't read a Reverse Harem Story or even one of Rebecca Royce's, Reverse Harem Stories, then you are truly missing out and need to get that ball rolling. (And quick!)
Tradition be Damned is vastly different then anything I've read before. (That's a good thing!) I read it straight through in one sitting, or rather at the edge of my seat, not being able to turn my kindle page fast enough so I can just get "MORE"!
I 100% you get your fingers on this and book 2 will be released on July 18th, 2017. Not much of a wait if your like me and ready for book 2, like yesterday!
***I voluntarily reviewed this advanced reader copy.***
Laura Redmon
Cutting Muse Blog Review
July 3, 2017
Tradition Be Damned
This story was very refreshing. It's not a storyline that has been done multiple times. It was very new to me and I loved it! I was pulled into this book immediately and I didn't want it to end. The world is overrun with demons and a select few women are born with a power to kill them. They call themselves the Sisterhood. Each Sister has five guardians to protect her while she kills the demons. Sister Anne feels different, she actually likes her guards and cares about what happens to them. They fall in love. They go through a lot to be able to be together, but it's all worth it. They find out new things that has been hidden from them, and they find out that maybe the Sisterhood isn't as on the up and up as you believe. I adored Anne, she's very sweet with a touch of innocent. She wants to be a good Sister but doesn't want to be an uncaring Sister like many others. I loved everything about this book and I'm eager to read more of this world! The relationship she has with her guards is very sweet. They care for her and each one offers her something different! I loved the five guys personality! This is definitely a book going into my reread collection!
This story was very refreshing. It's not a storyline that has been done multiple times. It was very new to me and I loved it! I was pulled into this book immediately and I didn't want it to end. The world is overrun with demons and a select few women are born with a power to kill them. They call themselves the Sisterhood. Each Sister has five guardians to protect her while she kills the demons. Sister Anne feels different, she actually likes her guards and cares about what happens to them. They fall in love. They go through a lot to be able to be together, but it's all worth it. They find out new things that has been hidden from them, and they find out that maybe the Sisterhood isn't as on the up and up as you believe. I adored Anne, she's very sweet with a touch of innocent. She wants to be a good Sister but doesn't want to be an uncaring Sister like many others. I loved everything about this book and I'm eager to read more of this world! The relationship she has with her guards is very sweet. They care for her and each one offers her something different! I loved the five guys personality! This is definitely a book going into my reread collection!
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