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The Serpents and Kings Trilogy #2
The King of Burning Skies
War is coming to the Sundolian Empire.
Can a forbidden love between a prince and a dragon save it?
Or are they destined to bring it all down in flames?
The kingdoms are shattering.
A tyrant rules from the north.
The Dragon clan, once exiled beyond the edges of the empire, has joined forces with a bloodthirsty, opportunistic king in the south.
And the crown prince of Rooks is running out of options to keep the people and places he loves safe. His best chance to save his world and take the crown from his mad father may lie in the most dangerous of those exiled Dragons—a woman who is just as likely to ruin him as she is to save him.
Alaya is part human, part divine, and fully prepared to use her growing powers to destroy everyone that has hurt and betrayed her. The list of those people is long. Despite her pain, she still intends to find a way to bring peace to her world—but she can’t do it alone.
The high king must fall.
What was broken must be mended.
And somehow, both Dragon and Rook must find a way to protect each other from the dark side of the magic building within and around them…
Or else watch their world burn to ashes.
Can a forbidden love between a prince and a dragon save it?
Or are they destined to bring it all down in flames?
The kingdoms are shattering.
A tyrant rules from the north.
The Dragon clan, once exiled beyond the edges of the empire, has joined forces with a bloodthirsty, opportunistic king in the south.
And the crown prince of Rooks is running out of options to keep the people and places he loves safe. His best chance to save his world and take the crown from his mad father may lie in the most dangerous of those exiled Dragons—a woman who is just as likely to ruin him as she is to save him.
Alaya is part human, part divine, and fully prepared to use her growing powers to destroy everyone that has hurt and betrayed her. The list of those people is long. Despite her pain, she still intends to find a way to bring peace to her world—but she can’t do it alone.
The high king must fall.
What was broken must be mended.
And somehow, both Dragon and Rook must find a way to protect each other from the dark side of the magic building within and around them…
Or else watch their world burn to ashes.
474 pages, Paperback
First published December 20, 2019
272 people are currently reading
1364 people want to read
About the author
S.M. Gaither
28 books2,068 followersI don't check Goodreads regularly, but you're welcome to send me an email (smgaitherbooks@gmail.com) anytime!
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As a kid, S.M. Gaither spent way too much time playing video games like Final Fantasy and reading every book she could get her hands on instead of doing silly things like her assigned homework. As an adult…Well, not much has changed. Her goal is to write books that distract others from their life’s obligations, too, thus creating an army of fellow procrastinators over which she can reign supreme. These days, her personal favorite places to procrastinate are in the mountains near her North Carolina home, in the company of her husband, their daughter, and their very spoiled dog.
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As a kid, S.M. Gaither spent way too much time playing video games like Final Fantasy and reading every book she could get her hands on instead of doing silly things like her assigned homework. As an adult…Well, not much has changed. Her goal is to write books that distract others from their life’s obligations, too, thus creating an army of fellow procrastinators over which she can reign supreme. These days, her personal favorite places to procrastinate are in the mountains near her North Carolina home, in the company of her husband, their daughter, and their very spoiled dog.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews
March 1, 2021
I really wanted to like this book despite my misgivings about the first book.
A lot of book one was so abrupt it was borderline illogical. Especially the first half of the book. That’s, of course, without mentioning how constantly helpless and handicapped the main character always seemed to be. Alaya was brash, had no plan, no knowledge, and no plans to get either. She quite literally stumbled around the plot, winging it the entire way.
Anyway, this books starts from where the first one ends. Alaya has just been betrayed, the Fire stone that’s supposed to make her powerful, give her control and make her somewhat invincible, has been stolen and one of her friends is dead.
Alaya’s goal is still the same. She wants to retrieve the fire stone and use it to kill the king, all while gaining allies and learning more about her powers.
Like book 1, this book is overrun with so much stupidity and foolish decisions. Alaya has so much power and is still constantly helpless, useless and constantly on the verge of death. She still has no tangible plans, still knows nothing really, and is still winging her way through the plot, very foolishly, I might add. She’s not even trying to gain her own allies, despite knowing she needs them. And untrustworthy tenuous acquaintance, Sylvien, is making allies using her name.
Worse part is that every single one of Alaya’s decisions just drives her closer to being someone’s puppet or someone’s victim or just plain dead.
I still don’t get it. Why does she need Sylvien? Yes are powers drain her too quickly and she needs to siphon energy from other serpent kind or she would go into coma and possibly die. I get that. But does it always have to be Sylvien she takes energy from?
Yeah he is more powerful but she could make do with others. (And she does survive with just draining her dad) There is no rule saying she needs to drain the most powerful to fully recover from her magic burn-out. Just one of several things that doesn’t add up in the book.
Considering how much she doesn’t trust Sylvien. The least Alaya can do is stay the hell away from him. Instead she plays at being some petulant, helpless, and unthinking while he secures himself as her damn puppeteer.
She is all, “I can’t trust him but I need him.” How! Make it make sense! (But, of course it doesn’t.)
Then of course there is the complex budding romance with the prince.
The prince’s plan to trap Alaya is so incredibly dumb. I’m kinda shook that someone could come up with such a horrible plan. For all the hints about the Prince liking Alaya, wanting to protect her and work with her, the dumbass put her in the most foolish and illogical kind of grave danger.
The Prince lures Alaya with the prospect of getting the fire stone. He does this because apparently, Alaya is too powerful to be left unsupervised with that much power. The supervised and controlled environment for Alaya to weild the stone, is the palace. This is so contradictory because the same dumbass prince also claim that the stone is for Alaya and all he plans is to return it to her.
So why the fanfare? Why the controlled environment BS Why must she have the stone in the palace, of all places? This is the same palace the near-immortal, cruel and unkillable king lives. The same palace where said king drains people’s magic so he can absorb it. Just to be clear that’s also the same King that hates Alaya, wants to steal her magic and then have her executed.
The prince, fully aware of the dangers his father poses to Alaya, still puts his plans in motion. Alaya is captured and taken directly to the palace, while she is unconscious from magic burn-out and from being electrocuted.
Oh yeah... the king and all his advisors know Alaya has been captured! Because dumbass prince does absolutely nothing to hide it.
He then leaves her for hours alone in the palace, while he goes to retrieve the fire stone. Why did he just give her the stone at the lake where it was safer?
The prince’s very foolish excuse is that the king’s advisers had advised the king to wait a full day before attacking Alaya. So of course, he has the day.
I mean, are you freaking kidding me?!
The prince actually expects the power-hungry maniacal king - who literally sends out soul collectors to his own people to kill and capture people so he can steal their powers - to suddenly wait a day to get the power he wants? Especially when his ultimate price is finally within his grasp?
GTFO! This is dumber than any analogy I can conjure.
As expected, the king attacks Alaya. While the prince is gone.
But also just out of curiosity, what exactly is the Prince’s best case scenario? That somehow, Alaya would immediately know how to harness the power of the stone, something no one has been able to do. Then after harnessing the stone, she would, and with absolutely no practice at all, appear before the king and kill him in his own home? A near-immortal being with more magic, power, experience and practice than Alaya?
I know fantasy defies logic, but really... this much stupidity defies and defiles even what the imagination can conceive.
I can keep writing all the other dumb crap in this book but I think I’ve made my point.
All the characters in this book lack the most basic reasoning skills, even Sylvien. That whole antagonist spilling out motives the first possible opportunity is so freaking dumb and cliche.
In the end, All I got was a very frustrating read.
I low-key wish the king hadn’t humored Alaya. Given enough time, she would have wandered, stupidly and wonderfully, into her own demise. And we would all have one less book chronicling her abject foolishness.
As it it, the next book is a no for me.
A lot of book one was so abrupt it was borderline illogical. Especially the first half of the book. That’s, of course, without mentioning how constantly helpless and handicapped the main character always seemed to be. Alaya was brash, had no plan, no knowledge, and no plans to get either. She quite literally stumbled around the plot, winging it the entire way.
Anyway, this books starts from where the first one ends. Alaya has just been betrayed, the Fire stone that’s supposed to make her powerful, give her control and make her somewhat invincible, has been stolen and one of her friends is dead.
Alaya’s goal is still the same. She wants to retrieve the fire stone and use it to kill the king, all while gaining allies and learning more about her powers.
Like book 1, this book is overrun with so much stupidity and foolish decisions. Alaya has so much power and is still constantly helpless, useless and constantly on the verge of death. She still has no tangible plans, still knows nothing really, and is still winging her way through the plot, very foolishly, I might add. She’s not even trying to gain her own allies, despite knowing she needs them. And untrustworthy tenuous acquaintance, Sylvien, is making allies using her name.
Worse part is that every single one of Alaya’s decisions just drives her closer to being someone’s puppet or someone’s victim or just plain dead.
I still don’t get it. Why does she need Sylvien? Yes are powers drain her too quickly and she needs to siphon energy from other serpent kind or she would go into coma and possibly die. I get that. But does it always have to be Sylvien she takes energy from?
Yeah he is more powerful but she could make do with others. (And she does survive with just draining her dad) There is no rule saying she needs to drain the most powerful to fully recover from her magic burn-out. Just one of several things that doesn’t add up in the book.
Considering how much she doesn’t trust Sylvien. The least Alaya can do is stay the hell away from him. Instead she plays at being some petulant, helpless, and unthinking while he secures himself as her damn puppeteer.
She is all, “I can’t trust him but I need him.” How! Make it make sense! (But, of course it doesn’t.)
Then of course there is the complex budding romance with the prince.
The prince’s plan to trap Alaya is so incredibly dumb. I’m kinda shook that someone could come up with such a horrible plan. For all the hints about the Prince liking Alaya, wanting to protect her and work with her, the dumbass put her in the most foolish and illogical kind of grave danger.
The Prince lures Alaya with the prospect of getting the fire stone. He does this because apparently, Alaya is too powerful to be left unsupervised with that much power. The supervised and controlled environment for Alaya to weild the stone, is the palace. This is so contradictory because the same dumbass prince also claim that the stone is for Alaya and all he plans is to return it to her.
So why the fanfare? Why the controlled environment BS Why must she have the stone in the palace, of all places? This is the same palace the near-immortal, cruel and unkillable king lives. The same palace where said king drains people’s magic so he can absorb it. Just to be clear that’s also the same King that hates Alaya, wants to steal her magic and then have her executed.
The prince, fully aware of the dangers his father poses to Alaya, still puts his plans in motion. Alaya is captured and taken directly to the palace, while she is unconscious from magic burn-out and from being electrocuted.
Oh yeah... the king and all his advisors know Alaya has been captured! Because dumbass prince does absolutely nothing to hide it.
He then leaves her for hours alone in the palace, while he goes to retrieve the fire stone. Why did he just give her the stone at the lake where it was safer?
The prince’s very foolish excuse is that the king’s advisers had advised the king to wait a full day before attacking Alaya. So of course, he has the day.
I mean, are you freaking kidding me?!
The prince actually expects the power-hungry maniacal king - who literally sends out soul collectors to his own people to kill and capture people so he can steal their powers - to suddenly wait a day to get the power he wants? Especially when his ultimate price is finally within his grasp?
GTFO! This is dumber than any analogy I can conjure.
As expected, the king attacks Alaya. While the prince is gone.
But also just out of curiosity, what exactly is the Prince’s best case scenario? That somehow, Alaya would immediately know how to harness the power of the stone, something no one has been able to do. Then after harnessing the stone, she would, and with absolutely no practice at all, appear before the king and kill him in his own home? A near-immortal being with more magic, power, experience and practice than Alaya?
I know fantasy defies logic, but really... this much stupidity defies and defiles even what the imagination can conceive.
I can keep writing all the other dumb crap in this book but I think I’ve made my point.
All the characters in this book lack the most basic reasoning skills, even Sylvien. That whole antagonist spilling out motives the first possible opportunity is so freaking dumb and cliche.
In the end, All I got was a very frustrating read.
I low-key wish the king hadn’t humored Alaya. Given enough time, she would have wandered, stupidly and wonderfully, into her own demise. And we would all have one less book chronicling her abject foolishness.
As it it, the next book is a no for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 30, 2020
Ahh, we reached the end of book two and it continues the steady and easy path of book one, without changing.
It was really good to finally see some great leading females, though the character is far from perfect and though she still needs some backing up, she is strong. If you like TOG maybe, just maybe you could check this series out.
This book has a nice world, maybe we would like some fairytales woven inside the story about it, some more.
We would also like to see her standing on her own feet.
And even though he is one of the bad guys, Sylven, is the most alluring character to me.
I will give it 4 stars.
This series has one of the best covers... like really keep that illustrator.
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This was given to me as an ARC in order to give my true and honest opinion on it. Please enjoy!
It was really good to finally see some great leading females, though the character is far from perfect and though she still needs some backing up, she is strong. If you like TOG maybe, just maybe you could check this series out.
This book has a nice world, maybe we would like some fairytales woven inside the story about it, some more.
We would also like to see her standing on her own feet.
And even though he is one of the bad guys, Sylven, is the most alluring character to me.
I will give it 4 stars.
This series has one of the best covers... like really keep that illustrator.
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This was given to me as an ARC in order to give my true and honest opinion on it. Please enjoy!
November 18, 2022
Loved this. THAT ENDING THOOOOOOO. S.M. Gaither knows how to write a cliffhanger that's for sure. I am dying to know what happens after all of that, luckily I have the next book already!
I was worried that this would suffer from 2nd book syndrome but that was absolutely not the case at all, this was just as good as the first book. I have fallen even more in love with these characters and the stakes are so high, I can't wait to see how this series finished off!
I was worried that this would suffer from 2nd book syndrome but that was absolutely not the case at all, this was just as good as the first book. I have fallen even more in love with these characters and the stakes are so high, I can't wait to see how this series finished off!
August 7, 2020
Oh my goodness what a ride! I'm so happy to say my last read of the year was 5 stars! I can't say that about too many books this year, but this book DELIVERS.
This book largely focuses on Emrys POV, with some of Alaya's interspersed, and some of Sade's POV in the beginning.
The book starts a short while after the events of book one. Emrys is back in the castle. The trust between Alaya, he, and Sade broken.
Sylven helps Alaya adjust to her serpent-kind powers, but power, especially Alaya's,comes with a heavy price to pay and Sylven makes no secret that he intends to capitalize on her power.
Emrys knows he must find a way to defeat his father, but does that mean becoming his father? Or the exact opposite? Decisions, decisions...
We are introduced to some new characters like Valla, a hermit fire-kind who gives Emrys the ability to hold power in his grasp, if only he's willing to reach out and take it.
Sade is not what we think she is, and honestly, I don't know if I wouldn't have done the same if I believed as much was at stake. I don't know, and I can't find myself to be too harsh on her.
The book, has a slow, but interesting middle as our MCs recoup and learn to become comfortable with who they are and what power they hold.
The book ends in a final burst of silver flamesl, solving so much, but introducing a very major problem the book more than foreshadows throughout. I knew it was coming, but my heart still raced to the very end.
All I am saying is I am so ready to see the kick butt team sarcastic Sade and a Determined Emrys make. Also hoping for more Enigmatic Isoni and her crabby butt.
5 Slithery serpent, fire scorching stars!
To follow more of my reviews, visit my website here
To read a detailed recape of this book, follow my recaps here
This book largely focuses on Emrys POV, with some of Alaya's interspersed, and some of Sade's POV in the beginning.
The book starts a short while after the events of book one. Emrys is back in the castle. The trust between Alaya, he, and Sade broken.
Sylven helps Alaya adjust to her serpent-kind powers, but power, especially Alaya's,comes with a heavy price to pay and Sylven makes no secret that he intends to capitalize on her power.
Emrys knows he must find a way to defeat his father, but does that mean becoming his father? Or the exact opposite? Decisions, decisions...
We are introduced to some new characters like Valla, a hermit fire-kind who gives Emrys the ability to hold power in his grasp, if only he's willing to reach out and take it.
Sade is not what we think she is, and honestly, I don't know if I wouldn't have done the same if I believed as much was at stake. I don't know, and I can't find myself to be too harsh on her.
The book, has a slow, but interesting middle as our MCs recoup and learn to become comfortable with who they are and what power they hold.
The book ends in a final burst of silver flamesl, solving so much, but introducing a very major problem the book more than foreshadows throughout. I knew it was coming, but my heart still raced to the very end.
All I am saying is I am so ready to see the kick butt team sarcastic Sade and a Determined Emrys make. Also hoping for more Enigmatic Isoni and her crabby butt.
5 Slithery serpent, fire scorching stars!
To follow more of my reviews, visit my website here
To read a detailed recape of this book, follow my recaps here
October 27, 2024
Emrys is absolutely still my favourite character after reading book two in this series.
This book is almost non stop action, complete with an absolutely terrifying sea monster battle.
Mild spoilers ahead...
Alaya is at times frustrating, she has so much power now that she has absorbed the fire soul and yet still seems to lose control so quickly despite constantly practising to avoid doing that very thing.
Alaya seems to forgive Sade far too quickly considering how badly Sade betrayed her in book three and her betrayal lead to the death of one of her closest friends. Yes, she came in to help at an opportune time but c'mon, Emrys had to work for his forgiveness, Sade should as well!
I have far more questions finishing this book than I have answers. I hope we get them all answered in the final book!
This book is almost non stop action, complete with an absolutely terrifying sea monster battle.
Mild spoilers ahead...
Alaya is at times frustrating, she has so much power now that she has absorbed the fire soul and yet still seems to lose control so quickly despite constantly practising to avoid doing that very thing.
Alaya seems to forgive Sade far too quickly considering how badly Sade betrayed her in book three and her betrayal lead to the death of one of her closest friends. Yes, she came in to help at an opportune time but c'mon, Emrys had to work for his forgiveness, Sade should as well!
I have far more questions finishing this book than I have answers. I hope we get them all answered in the final book!
January 4, 2020
(4,5 stars)
Since this is book 2 in the trilogy I can't say much about what happens here without spoiling it. Let me just say that this is really good fantasy, with dragons, swords and sorcery! It reminds me a bit of the Throne of Glass series (Sarah J Maas), and that's one of my favourites!
I received an ARC from the author and promised to give an honest review.
Since this is book 2 in the trilogy I can't say much about what happens here without spoiling it. Let me just say that this is really good fantasy, with dragons, swords and sorcery! It reminds me a bit of the Throne of Glass series (Sarah J Maas), and that's one of my favourites!
I received an ARC from the author and promised to give an honest review.
August 21, 2020
Our guys and gals just can’t catch a break and my hatred for Sylvan is strong in this one. He’s so creepy. Alaya and Emrys finally gave into their growing feelings for each other. It was about time. On to the final book that I’m sure won’t disappoint.
March 23, 2021
3.5 Stars
December 28, 2021
Very engaging and interesting read! Nothing that is amazingly different from other fantasy’s but a great way to relax and enjoy an evening, nonetheless.
April 3, 2020
An excellent read that was hard to put down even when having a major migraine for over a week. A must read!
April 15, 2020
Absolutely fabulous. Intriguing as well as romance to make a book not to be missed once it’s released. The second in I hope many more to come.
January 17, 2020
Book 3 now!!
I need the third and final book in this series now! It took me awhile to finish this book but that was totally my fault and not the book itself! Excellent read !
I need the third and final book in this series now! It took me awhile to finish this book but that was totally my fault and not the book itself! Excellent read !
December 16, 2024
"The King of Burning Skies" è il secondo volume della trilogia "Serpents and Kings" di S.M. Gaither e, seppur sia un libro in alcuni punti abbastanza lento, a me è piaciuto molto più del primo volume.
All'inizio mi sono sentita un po' spaesata, infatti il libro è ambientato qualche mese dopo la fine del primo volume, le vite dei personaggi hanno quindi inevitabilmente subito qualche cambiamento, che però ci viene descritto solo in poche righe.
Per esempio, mi è dispiaciuto molto non poter leggere personalmente le prime interazioni tra Alaya e Rue, nonostante adori comunque il loro rapporto.
Superate le prime pagine però, il libro mi ha presa molto di più rispetto a "The Queen of Cursed Things", infatti, mentre nel primo avevo trovato ogni dinamica troppo affrettata, qui l'autrice ha sviluppato meglio i personaggi e le loro relazioni, dedicando ad ognuno di loro lo spazio giusto.
Nella recensione del primo volume avevo scritto che avrei dato un giudizio sui rapporti amichevoli e romantici presenti nel libro solo una volta terminato il secondo volume, perché volevo averne un'idea più chiara, e posso dirvi che in questo libro ho davvero adorato sia l'amicizia tra Sade e Alaya, sia la relazione di quest'ultima con Emrys.
Infatti, dopo un'inizio abbastanza adrenalinico, la parte centrale di questo libro è dedicata principalmente all'allenamento di Alaya, che deve imparare a controllare i suoi poteri e che per questo convive con alcuni componenti del clan dei Serpenti, Sade ed Emrys. Alaya passa quindi molto tempo con i suoi amici e tra di loro si instaurano dei legami realistici e ben costruiti.
A livello di world-building e sistema magico, se devo essere sincera, non ho visto grossi miglioramenti rispetto al primo volume. È tutto molto nebuloso, ci sono poche descrizioni e soprattutto per quanto riguarda i poteri dei personaggi non vengono date grosse spiegazioni, ma so che l'autrice oltre a questa trilogia ha ambientato altre saghe in questo mondo, quindi spero che prima o poi ci sarà modo di saperne di più a riguardo.
Gli ultimi capitoli di questo libro mi sono piaciuti molto, proprio non mi aspettavo la piega che hanno preso gli eventi, e adesso non vedo l'ora di iniziare l'ultimo volume della trilogia.
All'inizio mi sono sentita un po' spaesata, infatti il libro è ambientato qualche mese dopo la fine del primo volume, le vite dei personaggi hanno quindi inevitabilmente subito qualche cambiamento, che però ci viene descritto solo in poche righe.
Per esempio, mi è dispiaciuto molto non poter leggere personalmente le prime interazioni tra Alaya e Rue, nonostante adori comunque il loro rapporto.
Superate le prime pagine però, il libro mi ha presa molto di più rispetto a "The Queen of Cursed Things", infatti, mentre nel primo avevo trovato ogni dinamica troppo affrettata, qui l'autrice ha sviluppato meglio i personaggi e le loro relazioni, dedicando ad ognuno di loro lo spazio giusto.
Nella recensione del primo volume avevo scritto che avrei dato un giudizio sui rapporti amichevoli e romantici presenti nel libro solo una volta terminato il secondo volume, perché volevo averne un'idea più chiara, e posso dirvi che in questo libro ho davvero adorato sia l'amicizia tra Sade e Alaya, sia la relazione di quest'ultima con Emrys.
Infatti, dopo un'inizio abbastanza adrenalinico, la parte centrale di questo libro è dedicata principalmente all'allenamento di Alaya, che deve imparare a controllare i suoi poteri e che per questo convive con alcuni componenti del clan dei Serpenti, Sade ed Emrys. Alaya passa quindi molto tempo con i suoi amici e tra di loro si instaurano dei legami realistici e ben costruiti.
A livello di world-building e sistema magico, se devo essere sincera, non ho visto grossi miglioramenti rispetto al primo volume. È tutto molto nebuloso, ci sono poche descrizioni e soprattutto per quanto riguarda i poteri dei personaggi non vengono date grosse spiegazioni, ma so che l'autrice oltre a questa trilogia ha ambientato altre saghe in questo mondo, quindi spero che prima o poi ci sarà modo di saperne di più a riguardo.
Gli ultimi capitoli di questo libro mi sono piaciuti molto, proprio non mi aspettavo la piega che hanno preso gli eventi, e adesso non vedo l'ora di iniziare l'ultimo volume della trilogia.
March 9, 2020
After reading the first book in this series I had said that SM Gaither has become one of my very favourite fantasy authors and now, having just finished reading the 2nd book in this heart stopping series I re-confirm that she has made it to my top five female fantasy authors for sure and I just cannot get enough of her very compelling books. In this 2nd book Alaya and Emrys attempt to kill High Rook King Haben, but since the evil King has been siphoning off all kinds of magic from other clans he seems to have become immortal and indestructible. After their failed attempt they end up having to flee for their lives flying on Alaya's dragon Rue, who takes them far from the Prince's own Kingdom where the King has set a price on his head. However Alaya is depleted of all energy through using too much magic, and she can only be brought back from near death by Sylven, a serpent like herself but one who could not be trusted. Sylven has his own agenda to meet it seems, and is taking over Alaya's mind every time he gives her of his energy trying to control her thoughts and actions. Alaya and Emry's both know that before the tyrant is killed the Sundolian Empire would not be safe so they ally with the The Sun King of Lumeria and plan how to take over the Palace of Eyes and kill the King. Phew my heart must have stopped a number of times during this crazy second attempt to kill the King, who is so strong in both magic and fighting skills, and Alaya planned to kill him on her own. The ending to the book leaves us in real turmoil as we worry over what is to happen to Alaya and the romance that had finally been accepted by both Emrys and Alaya. I love the characters which are so charismatic, the action full of monsters, magic and sword scenes which makes for compelling page turning and the race for power and fear of betrayal keeps us on our toes till the last line. The narrative is so descriptive it is as though we are living and experiencing all that our characters are going through, hence leaving me for one, dying to get my hands on the next book yesterday if possible!
January 6, 2020
Woohoo, I finally finished it! :D
I must admit, it took me way longer than I had thought (and hoped) it would.
Of course, these have been busy weeks, but still, in my honest opinion, the first is still my favourite so far :)
Worldbuilding was great, seriously, everything down to the dirt in a river bedding was clear and well written. It made it so easy to imagine yourself walking alongside Emrys or flying on Rue with Alaya! Really well written.
Character development was good with both Alaya and Emrys growing and learning a lot. They conquer their fears only to discover new ones, and while they are very cautious and not fully trusting, you feel them wanting to lay their soul bare for the other. But then there is Sylven, the freaking SNAKE! Well, technically he is Serpent-kind, so it is kinda true... but you know what I mean! I wish I could just... aargghhh!
Ahem, on with the review...
Pacing and flow were decent and I think this was my main issue. Now as I've said, I read this book during some busy weeks (Xmas and New Year), so I might not have been as immersed into the book and story as I'd normally be, but it just felt a tad slow in the middle. I had to man up and work through it. Around 70% all was well again and the pacing was a lot better! Happy me!
The book itself was well written with no (noticeable) errors.
I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book and even though it had a bit of a rough (slow) patch in the middle, it was a very enjoyable read. You will get emotionally attached (if you weren't already), rooting for both Emrys and Alaya to just trust each other and near throw your book (or Kindle) as you read about the damned Serpent-kind... grrrr... Wish Rue would just eat them and be done with it... Aaaaaaasssssss I was saying, can't wait for book 3! :D
I must admit, it took me way longer than I had thought (and hoped) it would.
Of course, these have been busy weeks, but still, in my honest opinion, the first is still my favourite so far :)
Worldbuilding was great, seriously, everything down to the dirt in a river bedding was clear and well written. It made it so easy to imagine yourself walking alongside Emrys or flying on Rue with Alaya! Really well written.
Character development was good with both Alaya and Emrys growing and learning a lot. They conquer their fears only to discover new ones, and while they are very cautious and not fully trusting, you feel them wanting to lay their soul bare for the other. But then there is Sylven, the freaking SNAKE! Well, technically he is Serpent-kind, so it is kinda true... but you know what I mean! I wish I could just... aargghhh!
Ahem, on with the review...
Pacing and flow were decent and I think this was my main issue. Now as I've said, I read this book during some busy weeks (Xmas and New Year), so I might not have been as immersed into the book and story as I'd normally be, but it just felt a tad slow in the middle. I had to man up and work through it. Around 70% all was well again and the pacing was a lot better! Happy me!
The book itself was well written with no (noticeable) errors.
I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book and even though it had a bit of a rough (slow) patch in the middle, it was a very enjoyable read. You will get emotionally attached (if you weren't already), rooting for both Emrys and Alaya to just trust each other and near throw your book (or Kindle) as you read about the damned Serpent-kind... grrrr... Wish Rue would just eat them and be done with it... Aaaaaaasssssss I was saying, can't wait for book 3! :D
May 27, 2021
☆☆☆☆ /5
Je pense être tombée amoureuse de la plume de l'auteure. Deuxième saga dont je découvre le deuxième tome et honnêtement, j'adore.
¤
Je n'en parlerai pas trop en détail car le roman que je présente aujourd'hui est un tome 2. On va éviter les spoils.
Honnêtement, je ne saurais que vous dire...
Cette trilogie est un condensé de combat, de magie, de complots et de dragons. C'est épique, il y a de l'aventure, de l'action. L'ambiance de l'histoire est entraînante et l’auteure sait maintenir une certaine tension afin de garder son lecteur jusqu'à la dernière page.
Le roman continue sur le même rythme que le premier tome. J'avais peur de ne pas avoir beaucoup de souvenirs de ma lecture du tome 1 mais finalement, la mémoire est revenue assez rapidement et les pages se sont tournés toutes seules.
¤
Ça a été un véritable plaisir de retrouver Alaya et Sade, ces deux femmes fortes qui m'ont tout simplement impressionnée dès que je les ai rencontrées, que ce soit par leur fort tempérament, que leur sensibilité. Je suis toujours autant charmée par ces deux jeunes femmes. Aussi, Emrys devient plutôt intéressant dans ce deuxième tome.
¤
Mon avis ne ressemble pas à grand-chose, mais c'est quand l'adoration est là que, soit j'écris un long pavé, soit je ne suis pas capable d'aligner mes pensées.
Vivement le livre final.
Je pense être tombée amoureuse de la plume de l'auteure. Deuxième saga dont je découvre le deuxième tome et honnêtement, j'adore.
¤
Je n'en parlerai pas trop en détail car le roman que je présente aujourd'hui est un tome 2. On va éviter les spoils.
Honnêtement, je ne saurais que vous dire...
Cette trilogie est un condensé de combat, de magie, de complots et de dragons. C'est épique, il y a de l'aventure, de l'action. L'ambiance de l'histoire est entraînante et l’auteure sait maintenir une certaine tension afin de garder son lecteur jusqu'à la dernière page.
Le roman continue sur le même rythme que le premier tome. J'avais peur de ne pas avoir beaucoup de souvenirs de ma lecture du tome 1 mais finalement, la mémoire est revenue assez rapidement et les pages se sont tournés toutes seules.
¤
Ça a été un véritable plaisir de retrouver Alaya et Sade, ces deux femmes fortes qui m'ont tout simplement impressionnée dès que je les ai rencontrées, que ce soit par leur fort tempérament, que leur sensibilité. Je suis toujours autant charmée par ces deux jeunes femmes. Aussi, Emrys devient plutôt intéressant dans ce deuxième tome.
¤
Mon avis ne ressemble pas à grand-chose, mais c'est quand l'adoration est là que, soit j'écris un long pavé, soit je ne suis pas capable d'aligner mes pensées.
Vivement le livre final.
February 5, 2021
Actual Rating: 3.5/5
"I will be king, and you be queen, and the stars and all the rest of the world will be brighter for it."
I'm not sure why, but this book was harder to finish. I lost interest a third of the way reading it and I had to force myself to read a couple chapters a day to finish it. Even though the pacing of this book was slower than the first one, I was still interested in how the story would develop and I enjoyed the progression of Alaya and her relationship with other characters.
The characters were well-rounded in development; Alaya and Emrys learned to cope with their fears while learning to embrace their new powers. I liked having Emrys's POV in this book because I was able to connect to him through his backstory and personal struggles. Overall, the characters were intriguing and I enjoyed the new villain, Sylven, and learning about his agenda with Alaya. Alaya and Sade's friendship was so heartbreaking, yet wholesome at the same time and I loved seeing them back together again to fight evil.
I liked this book (not as much as the first one) and I am ready for the conclusion to the series.
"I will be king, and you be queen, and the stars and all the rest of the world will be brighter for it."
I'm not sure why, but this book was harder to finish. I lost interest a third of the way reading it and I had to force myself to read a couple chapters a day to finish it. Even though the pacing of this book was slower than the first one, I was still interested in how the story would develop and I enjoyed the progression of Alaya and her relationship with other characters.
The characters were well-rounded in development; Alaya and Emrys learned to cope with their fears while learning to embrace their new powers. I liked having Emrys's POV in this book because I was able to connect to him through his backstory and personal struggles. Overall, the characters were intriguing and I enjoyed the new villain, Sylven, and learning about his agenda with Alaya. Alaya and Sade's friendship was so heartbreaking, yet wholesome at the same time and I loved seeing them back together again to fight evil.
I liked this book (not as much as the first one) and I am ready for the conclusion to the series.
May 6, 2020
“We can all be one big, happy, wildly dysfunctional family that goes to war together.”
The second book is action packed! I fell into this story a lot quicker than I did the first one. We’ve got the snarky Prince, Emrys, back with Alaya and I love it! Their doomed relationship is definitely one worth rooting for. The pace of this book moved quickly without skipping plot, but fast enough to get SO much done! I feel like there was a little incontinuity from the first to second book, an example being the Prince’s name, which was supposed to be secret in the kingdom, is now known by everyone in the kingdom. There were some others, not a big deal, but just something I noticed. I also thought that bringing Sade back into the story was a little far fetched, but it worked. Sade and Emrys’ love-hate relationship was fun too. Basically any time with Emrys was great. He had a lot more POV’s in this book too, which I, you guessed it, loved!
The second book is action packed! I fell into this story a lot quicker than I did the first one. We’ve got the snarky Prince, Emrys, back with Alaya and I love it! Their doomed relationship is definitely one worth rooting for. The pace of this book moved quickly without skipping plot, but fast enough to get SO much done! I feel like there was a little incontinuity from the first to second book, an example being the Prince’s name, which was supposed to be secret in the kingdom, is now known by everyone in the kingdom. There were some others, not a big deal, but just something I noticed. I also thought that bringing Sade back into the story was a little far fetched, but it worked. Sade and Emrys’ love-hate relationship was fun too. Basically any time with Emrys was great. He had a lot more POV’s in this book too, which I, you guessed it, loved!
August 14, 2020
I received a print copy of this book from the author to review. This in no way affects my opinion or rating.
Gaither’s world building is reminiscent of Kendare Blake’s - she is able to construct a broad view of the world we get to visit both artfully and clearly. The diagrams in the front are extremely helpful and enhanced my reading experience! I felt more engaged with the characters in this book than the previous installment, and I was excited to learn more about the Rook Prince’s past. I liked how there was a slow progression to Alaya and Emrys’s relationship, as there is hardly anything more prevalent in modern young adult literature than insta-love. Once again, despite the slower pacing, I was constantly interested and excited for what was next, and I find the complicated relationship between Alaya and Sade to be such a cool dynamic! The only thing I noticed were a few typos and grammatical errors, but those were easy to get past. I would highly recommend this book!
February 16, 2020
What a ride!!!
This installment picks up right where The Queen of Cursed Things left off. Only a few weeks have passed.
Alaya is in the process of learning to control her own magic, but each time she uses it, it comes with a cost. Will the plan she, and the prince need to pull off be worth it?
The world is beautifully described as always in the second installment, though we don't see as many of the strange and interesting creatures in this one. I'm curious about the native flora and fauna of the world the author created and hope that we see more in the next installment.
The story gripped me from the beginning to the end, as pulse pounding as the first book and just as twisty! I am absolutely in love with this story, and cannot wait until the next installment!
This installment picks up right where The Queen of Cursed Things left off. Only a few weeks have passed.
Alaya is in the process of learning to control her own magic, but each time she uses it, it comes with a cost. Will the plan she, and the prince need to pull off be worth it?
The world is beautifully described as always in the second installment, though we don't see as many of the strange and interesting creatures in this one. I'm curious about the native flora and fauna of the world the author created and hope that we see more in the next installment.
The story gripped me from the beginning to the end, as pulse pounding as the first book and just as twisty! I am absolutely in love with this story, and cannot wait until the next installment!
September 29, 2021
Where do I start?
Not one but two outstanding FC in this trilogy. I love Alaya and I seriously had moments of anger and heartbreaking sadness for her during the read. Sage is probably my favorite character even though she's not the main protagonist.
Beautiful world, action packed fights and battles with swords and magic, and a love story because of course there has to be a love story!
Betrayal, forgiveness, loss, and finding that HEA are all packed into this story. It's not for the faint of heart, battle scenes are very descriptive. I was ready to scream during parts of the story and wanted to cry during other parts.
Highly recommend.
Not one but two outstanding FC in this trilogy. I love Alaya and I seriously had moments of anger and heartbreaking sadness for her during the read. Sage is probably my favorite character even though she's not the main protagonist.
Beautiful world, action packed fights and battles with swords and magic, and a love story because of course there has to be a love story!
Betrayal, forgiveness, loss, and finding that HEA are all packed into this story. It's not for the faint of heart, battle scenes are very descriptive. I was ready to scream during parts of the story and wanted to cry during other parts.
Highly recommend.
January 27, 2021
Ugh I feel so bad for Alaya! So much betrayal everywhere. I hate when you can predict some things going a certain way and then they do, but it is far worse than you expected. Like I get why the decisions were made but ugh... Also Sylven is such a disgusting character! There are quite a few bad guys that are around, but he definitely rubs me the wrong way. He may be even worse than the high king, but we will see. Rue is definitely my favorite character. I am so glad she is a part of the story. I am saddened by the ending. But I cannot help but hope that things will be better.
August 1, 2021
Goodness! This was one crazy ride. The story is extremely well written and the characters have grown greatly in this book. I love how Emrys has grown throughout this one. The support characters play their roles beautifully. The add such a perfect element to the story. It has so much drama and action throughout it. It is a stunning story that is so intriguing that it keeps you glued to it. The descriptions are vivid as the first and it allows you to see the scenes easily in your mind. This is most definitely a fantastic story that is definitely a must read.
April 23, 2023
Not the best sequel.
I really loves the Shadow and Crowns series, but this series isn't nearly as good. Despite that, I did still enjoy the first book, but this second one was not very good. There were pages and pages of the inner thoughts of either Alaya or Emrys, often getting very repetitive. I got tired of their dreary inner monologues, always musing about the same things over and over. Just overall did not find it very good, compared to the first book, and especially not compared to her other series which os fantastic.
I really loves the Shadow and Crowns series, but this series isn't nearly as good. Despite that, I did still enjoy the first book, but this second one was not very good. There were pages and pages of the inner thoughts of either Alaya or Emrys, often getting very repetitive. I got tired of their dreary inner monologues, always musing about the same things over and over. Just overall did not find it very good, compared to the first book, and especially not compared to her other series which os fantastic.
September 20, 2023
Meh...Slightly different than Shadows & Crowns, but very similar themes. There are times where I just skip over pages of descriptions and/or a character's inner monologue because...boring. The self-doubt of the women she writes does get really old very quickly. Certain phrases have become cringe moments for me each time I read them, i.e., "she/he took deep calming breaths," "he/she counted (or tapped) to a (insert number here)." Some things don't need to be in every single book repeatedly. I think with a few tweaks, more self-assurance from the characters, these titles would be a win.
September 10, 2024
The audiobooks for this series are really good and that's how I've been reading this trilogy! I think book 2 has been my favorite so far :)
This is a classic YA adventure fantasy story with lots of interesting magic, amazing world-building, and boat loads of political intrigue! I enjoy all of the characters so much and I'm DYING to know how Emrys and Alaya end up!!!!!
I definitely recommend this series, especially if you have been sucked in to S.M. Gaither's massive world that she's created and want to stay in it and read everything (like I have!)
This is a classic YA adventure fantasy story with lots of interesting magic, amazing world-building, and boat loads of political intrigue! I enjoy all of the characters so much and I'm DYING to know how Emrys and Alaya end up!!!!!
I definitely recommend this series, especially if you have been sucked in to S.M. Gaither's massive world that she's created and want to stay in it and read everything (like I have!)
October 2, 2024
Please take my heart and repeatedly crush it, SM Gaither. This was so good. My emotions are in turmoil. I’m staring at the ceiling wondering if I am even prepared for the onslaught of emotion that is sure to come with the last in this series.
The relationships. The deep reflection and emotion that comes with the aftermath of book 1. It’s so incredibly well done that my brain is still caught up with Emrys’s thoughts and emotions. I knew he’d be my favorite character before the end of this series, and damn did have the best glow up.
The relationships. The deep reflection and emotion that comes with the aftermath of book 1. It’s so incredibly well done that my brain is still caught up with Emrys’s thoughts and emotions. I knew he’d be my favorite character before the end of this series, and damn did have the best glow up.
October 17, 2024
There is something about Gaither's books that make me all giddy. I love her stories, the worlds she creates, and this book was no different. Alaya and Emrys, it is so much fun reading what is going on with them. Emry's POV is predominant in this book. Then that cliffhanger, ahhhh, once again I am needing the next book since yesterday. I would love to say more with this book but if you have not read the first book, I do not want to spoil anything for you! Let me just say this book is a crazy ride full of forbidden romance, meddling gods, sassy dragons, slow burn and sooooo much more!
December 18, 2019
WOW!! What a ride!! Absolutely loved the second book in this series!! Read it in one sitting! Couldn’t put it down. The story continues with Rook ( Emrys) Dragon (Alaya) I LOVE it when they call each other Rook and Dragon!
The story delves into their relationship more we also meet new friends as well as connections with old friends.
Action packed from begging to end! Can’t wait for the next one!
The story delves into their relationship more we also meet new friends as well as connections with old friends.
Action packed from begging to end! Can’t wait for the next one!
January 2, 2020
I am an Honest ARC reviewer..That being said , This book rocked , it had me immersed for a 24 hour read through,I couldn't put it down until i finished it. Magic , betrayal , Swords & Sorcery, kings ,queens and Rooks..She must decide the path he must attempt regicide, but who will really win ? I knew this was book 2 in the series , but it could be a stand-alone read. Thanx S.M.Gaither for another Excellent Read !!!
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