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Blade and Rose #3
Court of Shadows
Answers to who killed her family. A trial to death. Is the truth worth the risk?
Master Mage Rielle is counting the months to her wedding when an unexpected invitation arrives from Magehold—to compete for magister. The magister’s mantle has been her dream for over a decade, but rumors accuse Magehold of shadowy deeds, among them killing families to collect promising young novices.
Piracy has been rampant along the Emaurrian coast, and Jon has his hands full with Immortals attacking, his forces spread too thin to handle it all. When Magehold announces the winner of the Magister Trials will be granted one boon, Rielle is determined to ask for an end to the piracy that threatens so many others and harmed her own family... and to investigate whether Magehold was responsible. But when she arrives, she learns that the trials have only one rule: survive.
Magehold could easily stamp out the piracy claiming countless lives, and if she wins the trials, Rielle could see it done. But with the other mages competing to kill, strangers hunting her in the shadows, and mysterious factions working behind the scenes, trying to win the test could mean the end of her life. Will the trials give her the answers she seeks and the aid Emaurria sorely needs, or will they be her end?
If you like the romance of A Court of Thorns and Roses, the epic adventure of Game of Thrones, and a heroine who never gives up, you’ll love this romantic epic fantasy series.
Buy Court of Shadows and dive into a medieval world sensual and dark, full of magic and greed, love and blades, where factions vie for influence and there are no easy choices...
Master Mage Rielle is counting the months to her wedding when an unexpected invitation arrives from Magehold—to compete for magister. The magister’s mantle has been her dream for over a decade, but rumors accuse Magehold of shadowy deeds, among them killing families to collect promising young novices.
Piracy has been rampant along the Emaurrian coast, and Jon has his hands full with Immortals attacking, his forces spread too thin to handle it all. When Magehold announces the winner of the Magister Trials will be granted one boon, Rielle is determined to ask for an end to the piracy that threatens so many others and harmed her own family... and to investigate whether Magehold was responsible. But when she arrives, she learns that the trials have only one rule: survive.
Magehold could easily stamp out the piracy claiming countless lives, and if she wins the trials, Rielle could see it done. But with the other mages competing to kill, strangers hunting her in the shadows, and mysterious factions working behind the scenes, trying to win the test could mean the end of her life. Will the trials give her the answers she seeks and the aid Emaurria sorely needs, or will they be her end?
If you like the romance of A Court of Thorns and Roses, the epic adventure of Game of Thrones, and a heroine who never gives up, you’ll love this romantic epic fantasy series.
Buy Court of Shadows and dive into a medieval world sensual and dark, full of magic and greed, love and blades, where factions vie for influence and there are no easy choices...
740 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 1, 2018
400 people are currently reading
1252 people want to read
About the author
Miranda Honfleur
22 books2,331 followersMiranda Honfleur is a born-and-raised Chicagoan living in Indianapolis. She grew up on fantasy and science fiction novels, spending nearly as much time in Valdemar, Pern, Tortall, Narnia, and Middle Earth as in reality.
In another life, her J.D. and M.B.A. were meant to serve a career in law, but now she gets to live her dream job: writing speculative fiction starring fierce heroines and daring heroes who make difficult choices along their adventures and intrigues, all with a generous (over)dose of romance.
When she’s not snarking, writing, or reading her Kindle, she hangs out and watches Netflix with her husband, gets constantly tackled by her dogs Gizmo and Luna, and plays board games with her friends.
Her next book release is the fifth volume in the romantic epic fantasy Blade and Rose series, The Dragon King, slated for release (barring any further apocalyptic events and meteors) in Q3 2021.
Blade and Rose, a romantic epic fantasy series (ongoing), includes:
1. Blade & Rose
2. By Dark Deeds
3. Court of Shadows
4. Queen of the Shining Sea
5. The Dragon King – forthcoming
6. Immortelle – forthcoming
+ Winter Wren (A Blade and Rose novelette) – available for free on www.mirandahonfleur.com
The Dark-Elves of Nightbloom, a series of fantasy romance standalones (ongoing), includes:
1. No Man Can Tame
2. Bright of the Moon
3. An Ember in the Dark (forthcoming)
4. Crown to Ashes (forthcoming)
Demon Dropout, an urban fantasy series (ongoing), serialized on Kindle Vella and Patreon every Thursday, includes:
1. Slay Date
The Witch of the Lake, a mythic dark young-adult fantasy series (completed) with Nicolette Andrews, includes:
1. Feast of the Mother
2. Fate of the Demon
3. Fall of the Reaper
For regular updates on her releases, be sure to sign up to her newsletter on www.mirandahonfleur.com.
In another life, her J.D. and M.B.A. were meant to serve a career in law, but now she gets to live her dream job: writing speculative fiction starring fierce heroines and daring heroes who make difficult choices along their adventures and intrigues, all with a generous (over)dose of romance.
When she’s not snarking, writing, or reading her Kindle, she hangs out and watches Netflix with her husband, gets constantly tackled by her dogs Gizmo and Luna, and plays board games with her friends.
Her next book release is the fifth volume in the romantic epic fantasy Blade and Rose series, The Dragon King, slated for release (barring any further apocalyptic events and meteors) in Q3 2021.
Blade and Rose, a romantic epic fantasy series (ongoing), includes:
1. Blade & Rose
2. By Dark Deeds
3. Court of Shadows
4. Queen of the Shining Sea
5. The Dragon King – forthcoming
6. Immortelle – forthcoming
+ Winter Wren (A Blade and Rose novelette) – available for free on www.mirandahonfleur.com
The Dark-Elves of Nightbloom, a series of fantasy romance standalones (ongoing), includes:
1. No Man Can Tame
2. Bright of the Moon
3. An Ember in the Dark (forthcoming)
4. Crown to Ashes (forthcoming)
Demon Dropout, an urban fantasy series (ongoing), serialized on Kindle Vella and Patreon every Thursday, includes:
1. Slay Date
The Witch of the Lake, a mythic dark young-adult fantasy series (completed) with Nicolette Andrews, includes:
1. Feast of the Mother
2. Fate of the Demon
3. Fall of the Reaper
For regular updates on her releases, be sure to sign up to her newsletter on www.mirandahonfleur.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
February 7, 2018
This book was not for me, or really this series I guess. I enjoyed the first 2, obviously enough to purchase and read this one. But it becomes apparent I am not the intended audience, being a guy. I believe our heroine has slept with every single male character in this series now and it appears more like some kind of dating/sexing sim game. This time she gets the smug werewolf baaaad boy.
I know it's just me and the fact I never much cared for wolf boys character, but through almost the first half of the book rielle and wolf boys seeming input into the story was to have sex, alot, all the time, in excessive detail, (say my name) uhh, ok. At this point I feel kind of stupid and embarrassed for reading this, but I might as well see it through. Oh hey, look, their having sex again. I believe people are being slaughtered by immortals but hell, let's have more "spine tingling" sex. And that's ok, I'm just the wrong demograph, my fault.
Rielle character has stagnated for me, she seems like a willfully manipulated, weak kneed girl. As her old slave master confronts her and she falls over crys and scrambles away. Where is the fire, the inner self beliefe. I loved her in the first book, strong, independent, capable and mysterious. Here she's either having sex, arguing or feeling bad. Oh, she does fight and it's bad ass, but I just lost interest in reading about her.
At the end of book 2, I liked how Jon pulled himself together and resolves to live by his oaths again. But here he just..... never really progresses as a character. He is exactly the same at the end here as He is at the end of book 2. Which was novel for a while, but morose sadness gets old after 700 pages.
I guess Olivia was the only character I really liked, of course she starts to have feelings for king man, 😔 and leigh, he actually progressed the plot with the coven and immortals, that his chapters let you know there is still a war going on.
I'm just disappointed that I enjoyed the first 2 so much and found this one hard to read, there is absolutely no resolution at all and it feels more like filler, a lot happens in the book but it never felt very grand or important. The mage trials could have been over in 200 pages, but it's filled with angst sex, bickering, sex, talking about feelings, sex and some magecraft. It feels more like the grand story is who will rielle sleep with next, will it be, the smug werewolf baaaad boy, the morose sad good king, or some random chiseled 0% body fat God like man. And the war and stuff.
I hate being critical on author's because they work very hard to create these characters and worlds. This one is just not for me, or really, it's not written for any man, this book especially made it clear this story is exclusively written for a female audience, and that's ok. I hope more people read it and find enjoyment in it, I sincerely hope this become a successful series, it just sadly isn't for me.
I know it's just me and the fact I never much cared for wolf boys character, but through almost the first half of the book rielle and wolf boys seeming input into the story was to have sex, alot, all the time, in excessive detail, (say my name) uhh, ok. At this point I feel kind of stupid and embarrassed for reading this, but I might as well see it through. Oh hey, look, their having sex again. I believe people are being slaughtered by immortals but hell, let's have more "spine tingling" sex. And that's ok, I'm just the wrong demograph, my fault.
Rielle character has stagnated for me, she seems like a willfully manipulated, weak kneed girl. As her old slave master confronts her and she falls over crys and scrambles away. Where is the fire, the inner self beliefe. I loved her in the first book, strong, independent, capable and mysterious. Here she's either having sex, arguing or feeling bad. Oh, she does fight and it's bad ass, but I just lost interest in reading about her.
At the end of book 2, I liked how Jon pulled himself together and resolves to live by his oaths again. But here he just..... never really progresses as a character. He is exactly the same at the end here as He is at the end of book 2. Which was novel for a while, but morose sadness gets old after 700 pages.
I guess Olivia was the only character I really liked, of course she starts to have feelings for king man, 😔 and leigh, he actually progressed the plot with the coven and immortals, that his chapters let you know there is still a war going on.
I'm just disappointed that I enjoyed the first 2 so much and found this one hard to read, there is absolutely no resolution at all and it feels more like filler, a lot happens in the book but it never felt very grand or important. The mage trials could have been over in 200 pages, but it's filled with angst sex, bickering, sex, talking about feelings, sex and some magecraft. It feels more like the grand story is who will rielle sleep with next, will it be, the smug werewolf baaaad boy, the morose sad good king, or some random chiseled 0% body fat God like man. And the war and stuff.
I hate being critical on author's because they work very hard to create these characters and worlds. This one is just not for me, or really, it's not written for any man, this book especially made it clear this story is exclusively written for a female audience, and that's ok. I hope more people read it and find enjoyment in it, I sincerely hope this become a successful series, it just sadly isn't for me.
February 21, 2018
I really have no idea why everyone is rating this book so high. Nothing really happens in this book, all of the characters just chase their tails around (some of them literally). Drama for the sake of drama, and so far-fetched. Everyone gets pregnant the first time they have sex with someone! DRAMA. People suddenly falling in love with other people, like Olivia and Jon! DRAMA. Rielle just can't stop loving two idiot jerk dudes who betray her constantly and are dying and dead but no, they're alive again and DRAAAAMAAAA.
This book didn't even tie up the pointless magister trials - a cliffhanger ending again about stuff I just don't care about.
This book didn't even tie up the pointless magister trials - a cliffhanger ending again about stuff I just don't care about.
August 7, 2018
I really enjoyed this! After all the happenings of the last book, I was glad for this one to be (somewhat) lighter. It still has enough drama and plot to keep things interesting and I can’t wait for the next book.
I will forever say that these books are so underrated and they SHOULDN’T be! If you like fantasy with some romance WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR?
Slight spoilers though:
I REALLY am hoping for a more solid relationship path for Rielle next book. I don’t think I can take 6 books of back and forth.
I will forever say that these books are so underrated and they SHOULDN’T be! If you like fantasy with some romance WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR?
Slight spoilers though:
I REALLY am hoping for a more solid relationship path for Rielle next book. I don’t think I can take 6 books of back and forth.
February 3, 2018
These books are so underrated oh my good.
I love love the story, world building and character development in this series but I can say I'm mad in the romance aspect since last book but oh well, guess we'll see what happens next book.
I love love the story, world building and character development in this series but I can say I'm mad in the romance aspect since last book but oh well, guess we'll see what happens next book.
February 6, 2018
Magical duels, steamy romance, and dragons, oh my!
This spellbinding continuation of the series delivered on the promises of the previous books. Rielle shines as a fierce heroine with heart, Leigh dazzles in epic battles, Jon gives us hope for redemption…
And BRENNAN!! No spoilers, but trust me when I say you’ll want to watch him 😉
As always, my favorite part was the deep themes running throughout. Honefleur makes an art out of illustrating the subtleties in relationships that end up mattering so much. You want to laugh, cry, and cheer with each of the characters as they come to realize their deepest desires, their life’s purpose, and their deepest insecurities.
I cannot wait for the next book!
This spellbinding continuation of the series delivered on the promises of the previous books. Rielle shines as a fierce heroine with heart, Leigh dazzles in epic battles, Jon gives us hope for redemption…
And BRENNAN!! No spoilers, but trust me when I say you’ll want to watch him 😉
As always, my favorite part was the deep themes running throughout. Honefleur makes an art out of illustrating the subtleties in relationships that end up mattering so much. You want to laugh, cry, and cheer with each of the characters as they come to realize their deepest desires, their life’s purpose, and their deepest insecurities.
I cannot wait for the next book!
July 3, 2018
The writing is technically excellent, smooth and engaging, but god this was long and i find myself increasingly skimming non rielle/brennan sections. It feels like the story lines are becoming overly numerous and very long. And the pacing is very slow. Like, it takes a million pages to get to kind of resolution on one of the many plot points. And im not sure i have the attention span to read yet another gargantuan installment
Want to read
February 17, 2021🎁 Blade and Rose Boxed Set: Books 1-3 is FREE on Amazon today (2/17/2021)! 🎁
February 22, 2018
I think this series has ruined other books for me. The writing is flawless, the storybuilding superb, and the characters complex and real. Despite the length of these books, I can't devour these quick enough and am always grateful for the extra pages. The story never lags or feels boring. This book continues to build on the characters as they try, not always successfully, to be better versions of themselves. I love Brennan in this story as he is the best person he can be...when it involves things he cares about...which is so keeping with his character. And Jon is trying to so hard to be what everyone needs him to be, but remaining unflinchingly dedicated to his personal moral compass -- I love that he makes mistakes, but becomes better because of what he learns. (Jon is my favorite!) And Rielle -- so strong without alienating those around her. I hate female characters that have to do everything by themselves or have to be uncompromising to feel strong. Rielle is not one of those, rather she has flaws, and feelings, and traumas but still works with those around her to strengthen them and take strength from them. She's not too weak to save herself and not too vain/stubborn to need to be saved sometimes.
The only reason I took off a star was because the sex scenes which just got old and annoying (and sometimes just uncomfortable) very quickly---I ended up skipping over them as often as possible. That being said, Honfleur is such an accomplished author, that I'm suspicious that even this "flaw" was really just an intentional way of leading readers towards certain own conclusions about the strength and dysfunctions of that relationship...I don't know...she's just that accomplished an author!
Overall, I love this series, and love each book more than the last. Every time I finish one of these books, all subsequent books seem unreadable, uninteresting, and poorly written. I'm emotionally invested in the people and have such a hard time waiting for the next book (thank goodness she's a quick writer!) Read these books -- you won't be disappointed!
The only reason I took off a star was because the sex scenes which just got old and annoying (and sometimes just uncomfortable) very quickly---I ended up skipping over them as often as possible. That being said, Honfleur is such an accomplished author, that I'm suspicious that even this "flaw" was really just an intentional way of leading readers towards certain own conclusions about the strength and dysfunctions of that relationship...I don't know...she's just that accomplished an author!
Overall, I love this series, and love each book more than the last. Every time I finish one of these books, all subsequent books seem unreadable, uninteresting, and poorly written. I'm emotionally invested in the people and have such a hard time waiting for the next book (thank goodness she's a quick writer!) Read these books -- you won't be disappointed!
March 4, 2018
Why is this series so underrated?
Jon's redemption arc is 10x better than Brennan's.
Yes. Brennan stopped being cruel and did everything right as best as he could by Rielle in book 2 but it was all to win back the woman he loved. He never truly saw the horrific consequences of his actions other than it cost him Rielle. He justified his past actions away as fear of love and rejection. A means to an end. Even throughout their relationship he couldn't quite work through is issues of possession and control. His love for Rielle blinds him to what Rielle needs and I'm not sure he can keep apologizing and make amends.
Jon redeemed and rebuilt himself partly to honor Rielle and his love for her, yes, but it ran deeper than that. He hated the man he had become and couldn't live being that man any longer. And that, to me, will always make Jon the better man for Rielle. He's selfless through and through in ways Brennan can never be.
But that doesn't mean I don't love Brennan. I do. I love Brennan in ways I didn't think I would because of book 1. He's certainly an interesting character who tries so hard to work through his issues. But i just cannot ship him with Rielle.
I hope that he comes to find peace and happiness that he deserves but I just don't think he and Rielle fit no matter how much they love each other.
And I think there's something lovely about seeing these complexities of love. It's not a balm and cure all.
Rielle is wonderful in her own right.
Actually I love all the characters new and old in this book.
Jon's redemption arc is 10x better than Brennan's.
Yes. Brennan stopped being cruel and did everything right as best as he could by Rielle in book 2 but it was all to win back the woman he loved. He never truly saw the horrific consequences of his actions other than it cost him Rielle. He justified his past actions away as fear of love and rejection. A means to an end. Even throughout their relationship he couldn't quite work through is issues of possession and control. His love for Rielle blinds him to what Rielle needs and I'm not sure he can keep apologizing and make amends.
Jon redeemed and rebuilt himself partly to honor Rielle and his love for her, yes, but it ran deeper than that. He hated the man he had become and couldn't live being that man any longer. And that, to me, will always make Jon the better man for Rielle. He's selfless through and through in ways Brennan can never be.
But that doesn't mean I don't love Brennan. I do. I love Brennan in ways I didn't think I would because of book 1. He's certainly an interesting character who tries so hard to work through his issues. But i just cannot ship him with Rielle.
I hope that he comes to find peace and happiness that he deserves but I just don't think he and Rielle fit no matter how much they love each other.
And I think there's something lovely about seeing these complexities of love. It's not a balm and cure all.
Rielle is wonderful in her own right.
Actually I love all the characters new and old in this book.
August 27, 2021
I don't even know what to say. This book was really hard for me to read. I fell in love with Jon and Rielle in Book 1 and rooted for them all the way. Yes he slept with two other women (not counting the Earth binding), but he did it from a place if utter pain. He thought she was DEAD after all!!
Enter Brennan the Bad and Book 3 romanticizes him for 90% of the book and suddenly I should like him?
Urghhh! I don't think so!
I literally gagged everytime Bren and Rielle had sex (and it was way too many freaking times).
I don't know if Hornfleur is trying to pull a Tamlin/Jon vs Rhysand/Brennan move here because it's not working.
In fact, I'm actually hoping Rielle starts desperately chasing after Jon and he bats her seven ways to the Shining Sea!
Enter Brennan the Bad and Book 3 romanticizes him for 90% of the book and suddenly I should like him?
Urghhh! I don't think so!
I literally gagged everytime Bren and Rielle had sex (and it was way too many freaking times).
I don't know if Hornfleur is trying to pull a Tamlin/Jon vs Rhysand/Brennan move here because it's not working.
In fact, I'm actually hoping Rielle starts desperately chasing after Jon and he bats her seven ways to the Shining Sea!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 28, 2018
Court of Shadows (Blade and Rose Book 3)
The love triangle continuous of Rielle, Jon and Brennan. Jon upright to end the immortals threat, Rielle and Brennan are planning a wedding. Someone want Rielle dead. Brennan is going to be a father. Can Jon save the world? Can Rielle and Brennan find happiness? A action full story you will lovw.
The love triangle continuous of Rielle, Jon and Brennan. Jon upright to end the immortals threat, Rielle and Brennan are planning a wedding. Someone want Rielle dead. Brennan is going to be a father. Can Jon save the world? Can Rielle and Brennan find happiness? A action full story you will lovw.
August 16, 2018
Court of Shadows
Although a good story line, this was the least favorite of the series so far. I guess I got tired of the heroine falling totally in love one minute and the nest giving up on the relationship to just fall madly in love again with someone else. Bad heroine!
Although a good story line, this was the least favorite of the series so far. I guess I got tired of the heroine falling totally in love one minute and the nest giving up on the relationship to just fall madly in love again with someone else. Bad heroine!
June 10, 2020
Like the sries but this one was frustrating. Rielle jumped right back into a relationship with the man who physically, mentally and emotionally abused her. She overlooks his possessive a-hole behavior because of smoldering bad boy syndrome. She really needs some self respect.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 12, 2018
Pretty please give me book 4 now?! I can’t handle this!
October 9, 2018
I've read/re-read/skimmed this book a few times now; hoping for ...
I don't know what. But it didn't get better. It didn't get better.
I'm REALLY goddamn annoyed by a major plot point ...
I don't know what. But it didn't get better. It didn't get better.
I'm REALLY goddamn annoyed by a major plot point ...
March 8, 2018
It was a page turner. But not in a good way. The first two books did a great job of world building and had a good balance between the protagonist's romantic struggles, her personal story and the overall threats to the kingdom. This did not. 75 percent of this book was Rielle and Brennan hemming and hawing over their relationship and the writing took a backseat to incessant whining. I skimmed the sections where characters would rehash all of the same emotions to get to the parts where the story actually moved forward. I felt the author did not give readers enough credit and she spelled out everything. I had high hopes to see where this book would go and it just did not live up to my expectations. I'm too invested in the story to give up on the series, so my fingers are crossed that the next book is better.
February 10, 2018
I loved Blade & Rose and By Dark Deeds, the first two books of Miranda Honfleur’s Blade and Rose series. Now the author is back with book 3, Court of Shadows, and it’s a true treat.
Master Mage Rielle has two easy options: compete and win the post of magister of Magehold, which will include finding out who killed her family and being able to stamp out the piracy that has been running rampant along the Emaurrian coast, or die. Luckily Rielle is the epitome of a kick-a** heroine so I’d not be fast to bet against her - and, as a reader, following along as she takes on all comers is one heck of a fun, if wild, ride.
Highly recommended.
Master Mage Rielle has two easy options: compete and win the post of magister of Magehold, which will include finding out who killed her family and being able to stamp out the piracy that has been running rampant along the Emaurrian coast, or die. Luckily Rielle is the epitome of a kick-a** heroine so I’d not be fast to bet against her - and, as a reader, following along as she takes on all comers is one heck of a fun, if wild, ride.
Highly recommended.
Read
April 6, 2018Very much enjoyed the stories, but at this point feel that the heroine is rather more into her own sexual fulfillment. She doesn't have any loyalty to the man she really loves, as soon as the going
gets tough she runs, not very mature.
gets tough she runs, not very mature.
November 25, 2018
How many times can you change your mind about characters?
I’m usually pretty dead-set on characters I like and characters I don’t like, but this series is taking me on a rollercoaster.
The only thing I’m certain about is how much I love Leigh and Ambriel.
I’m usually pretty dead-set on characters I like and characters I don’t like, but this series is taking me on a rollercoaster.
The only thing I’m certain about is how much I love Leigh and Ambriel.
January 13, 2022
This is yet another breath taking book in this very intriguing series, I could compare this to the hunger games since Rielle was invited to take part in the magical trials set up by the Divinus herself and which had no holds barred type of challenges with only one winner at the end who would be declared magister. This was a post Rielle had been striving to acquire and had worked so hard towards, but never had the games been so dangerous and it seemed these were set against her right from the start. During these days of the trials Brennan had promised to find access to the archives in search of any incriminating evidence about his father's treasonous actions and finding out who had killed Rielle's family, and his attempts proved almost as life threatening as the trials Rielle was taking part in. Jon and Olivia had come to plead for aid from the Divinus but they had an alternate plan if and when she refused, a plan which Leigh and Ambriel were working to see succeed and that was to harness the aid of the covens and to destabilise the Divinity and Magehold's yoke over the tower. These plans were dangerous because Elephteria 11 the Grand Divinus was evil to the core and power hungry. The story continues to pit the star crossed lovers against one another and jealousy and distrust seem to have brought them to their breaking point. I cannot see a way forward for Rielle and Brennan at this point but I look forward to the next thrilling read in this very addictive series which I cannot put down!
February 2, 2018
This series is so good. I couldn't wait for this book to come out and it didn't disappoint. There are more books in this series, and I'm both glad to read more and sad I have to wait for it. I loved Jon in book one and then was disappointed with him in book two, and then I started to love Brennen. In the first half of book three I loved Brennen and then not so much in the second half. And it's all completely realistic faults that these characters have. I just don't know how the author does this. I'm impressed, and have never been this torn in a love triangle. Well done!
June 12, 2020
I love these books so much, but boy do they take you for an emotional roller coaster! If you love a epic fantasy journey with a love story with so much angst and suspense you have to stop yourself from binging it you want to read this series! I love the narrator for these audio books, she does a great job.
January 6, 2019
Okay these books are honestly so good. Why aren't more people talking about them? I'm really invested in these characters and their lives- not just the main characters but everyone. Well written characters, beautifully build world, interesting magic, political intrigue- what more could a girl ask For?
April 28, 2020
Okay, I took off a star because I felt as though the magister trials could have been more detailed and captivating. I didn’t even realize the first trial was happening until it was over. The second trial was immensely anti-climatic... Rielle was apparently unharmed after being thrown by a basilisk and, again, the battle was over before it even really began. So those scenes, or lack there of, brought my rating to four stars. However, I still very thoroughly enjoy this storyline!
As much as my heart desires it to be, I knew Rielle and Brennan couldn’t be end game because there are three more books and obviously she and Jon still have a connection and love for each other. However, I really hope Jon isn’t Rielle’s end game because she and Brennan have so much history and have overcome so many obstacles. Brennan is definitely not perfect (that is why I ADORE him) but he is slowly developing into the person both he and Rielle deserve. Obviously Brennan and Rielle have different ideas of their future together and that’s a problem, BUT STILL! I can only hope that Brennan’s character continues to develop and he and Rielle end up together. Sorry, Jon!
As much as my heart desires it to be, I knew Rielle and Brennan couldn’t be end game because there are three more books and obviously she and Jon still have a connection and love for each other. However, I really hope Jon isn’t Rielle’s end game because she and Brennan have so much history and have overcome so many obstacles. Brennan is definitely not perfect (that is why I ADORE him) but he is slowly developing into the person both he and Rielle deserve. Obviously Brennan and Rielle have different ideas of their future together and that’s a problem, BUT STILL! I can only hope that Brennan’s character continues to develop and he and Rielle end up together. Sorry, Jon!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 4, 2022
I don't know why almost every one gave 5 stars for this book. Every one sleeps with or having feelings with all the characters through out this series. Leigh story is ok. He could be a hero. Both jon & Brennan characterisation is not good. Every one don't have a bad boy syndrome..
Rielle was so confident and poised as a lotheur in the first book. But in this third book, she became somone else. I loved this series because of that kick-ass heroine. I don't see her now...
Olivia.. can't even comprehend.. first with the father even though he's having wife & kids... Now want to be with the son.. before him I think 3 persons she started having feelings.. and that too after the death of her love, James. May be in next book with Liam too(who knows). Rielle risked everything to save this great friend, who is currently having feelings for rielle's love of life. Please we readers also have a conscience. Don't write something to drag up the series.. maybe can add some new characters.
2 stars , only because of Leigh and Ambriel.
Rielle was so confident and poised as a lotheur in the first book. But in this third book, she became somone else. I loved this series because of that kick-ass heroine. I don't see her now...
Olivia.. can't even comprehend.. first with the father even though he's having wife & kids... Now want to be with the son.. before him I think 3 persons she started having feelings.. and that too after the death of her love, James. May be in next book with Liam too(who knows). Rielle risked everything to save this great friend, who is currently having feelings for rielle's love of life. Please we readers also have a conscience. Don't write something to drag up the series.. maybe can add some new characters.
2 stars , only because of Leigh and Ambriel.
September 17, 2019
Character building at its finest
The character building in this series in phenomenal. As we see into each character individually it’s hard not to feel remorse and heartbreak along with them. The ending, it’s just so unfortunate, and I can’t help but think of Rielle and where she will end up now that the entire circumstances have changed! And Brennan, who didn’t go after her for once, how will their love survive, and where does this leave Jon. Jon, who is trying with a dying heart to save his kingdom. The unknown is maddening and I absolutely love it.
The character building in this series in phenomenal. As we see into each character individually it’s hard not to feel remorse and heartbreak along with them. The ending, it’s just so unfortunate, and I can’t help but think of Rielle and where she will end up now that the entire circumstances have changed! And Brennan, who didn’t go after her for once, how will their love survive, and where does this leave Jon. Jon, who is trying with a dying heart to save his kingdom. The unknown is maddening and I absolutely love it.
August 17, 2019
Self Sacrifice
XXX! Adult content. If you hold a marble s high fun never hold anything else. You have to open our hand to hold more and its losing the marble. Brennon, learned the hard way not to hold too tight. You also have to hold your hand out to receive the marble. Jon refused so he lost the marbletoo. Rielle being the metaphorical marble.
XXX! Adult content. If you hold a marble s high fun never hold anything else. You have to open our hand to hold more and its losing the marble. Brennon, learned the hard way not to hold too tight. You also have to hold your hand out to receive the marble. Jon refused so he lost the marbletoo. Rielle being the metaphorical marble.
October 10, 2018
I have resigned myself to the fact that is series is gonna be Rielle x Jon forever. That is a couple that interests me less than paint drying so despite the fun plot and good writing style, I exit here.
March 1, 2020
'Court of shadows' by Miranda Honfleur is the story of Rielle.
'Court of shadows' is the third book in the series.
This series has 5 books, but later (2020) book 6 will be released. There are also 2 novella's. This audiobook is about 18 hours and 51 minutes long. .
'Court of Shadows' is my favorite book in the series. Rielle and Brennan are good together. To be honest I would like it more if Jon and Rielle were together. I think that they are match made from heaven.
I was really worried at the end of By Dark Deeds about where this was going.
Luckily that wasn't needed. The author 'Miranda Honfleur' never strayed from the truth of the characters built in the previous two books. Not once did Miranda Honfleur bend the characters to the will of the story simply because she wanted something to happen. It just felt honest. Every twist and turn for each character was earned and the entire time I felt like the story was moving along its destined course.
This book continues to build on the characters as they try, not always successfully, to be better versions of themselves. I love Brennan in this story as he is the best person he can be...when it involves things he cares about...which is so keeping with his character.
Jon is trying to so hard to be what everyone needs him to be, but remaining unflinchingly dedicated to his personal moral compass. I love that he makes mistakes, but becomes better because of what he learns.
Jon is my favorite lover for Rielle. He is so strong without alienating those around him.
But I totally love Leigh Calvin too with his elven lover.
I like female characters even more if they don't have to do everything by themselves, or have to be uncompromising to feel strong.
Rielle has flaws, and feelings, and traumas. But still works with those around her to strengthen them and take strength from them. She's not too weak to save herself and not too stubborn to need to be saved sometimes.
This series has been one of my biggest favorites I've read this year. 'Blade and rose' has complex characters, multiple POVs (what I like very much. This is giving the story more depth.), passionate romance, heartwarming friendships and above all epic world-building.
I would definitely recommend this book if you like romance, magic and an action packed adventure across the kingdom you will enjoy this book. It's a good continuation for 'Blade and Rose' series.
I'm very much looking forward to sailing on into 'Queen of the Shining Sea'.
I was voluntarily provided this free review copy audiobook by the author, narrator, or publisher for an honest review.
'Court of shadows' is the third book in the series.
This series has 5 books, but later (2020) book 6 will be released. There are also 2 novella's. This audiobook is about 18 hours and 51 minutes long. .
'Court of Shadows' is my favorite book in the series. Rielle and Brennan are good together. To be honest I would like it more if Jon and Rielle were together. I think that they are match made from heaven.
I was really worried at the end of By Dark Deeds about where this was going.
Luckily that wasn't needed. The author 'Miranda Honfleur' never strayed from the truth of the characters built in the previous two books. Not once did Miranda Honfleur bend the characters to the will of the story simply because she wanted something to happen. It just felt honest. Every twist and turn for each character was earned and the entire time I felt like the story was moving along its destined course.
This book continues to build on the characters as they try, not always successfully, to be better versions of themselves. I love Brennan in this story as he is the best person he can be...when it involves things he cares about...which is so keeping with his character.
Jon is trying to so hard to be what everyone needs him to be, but remaining unflinchingly dedicated to his personal moral compass. I love that he makes mistakes, but becomes better because of what he learns.
Jon is my favorite lover for Rielle. He is so strong without alienating those around him.
But I totally love Leigh Calvin too with his elven lover.
I like female characters even more if they don't have to do everything by themselves, or have to be uncompromising to feel strong.
Rielle has flaws, and feelings, and traumas. But still works with those around her to strengthen them and take strength from them. She's not too weak to save herself and not too stubborn to need to be saved sometimes.
This series has been one of my biggest favorites I've read this year. 'Blade and rose' has complex characters, multiple POVs (what I like very much. This is giving the story more depth.), passionate romance, heartwarming friendships and above all epic world-building.
I would definitely recommend this book if you like romance, magic and an action packed adventure across the kingdom you will enjoy this book. It's a good continuation for 'Blade and Rose' series.
I'm very much looking forward to sailing on into 'Queen of the Shining Sea'.
I was voluntarily provided this free review copy audiobook by the author, narrator, or publisher for an honest review.
April 11, 2024
Review contains spoilers.
Unfortunately, I was a little disappointed. I thought the upward trajectory from Book 2 would continue into Book 3 but it didn't. In the first book, the three main characters (Rielle, Jon, Brennan) were all kind of annoying but likable, for the most part (except Brennan). In the second book, Jon was a complete hot mess, Brennan's character actually improved, and Rielle was too busy dealing with being sold into slavery to be annoying. Third book: Jon at least has his stuff figured out but Rielle and Brennan almost made me pass out from how often I was sighing. I don't think either of them developed enough as individuals to justify them trying to exist as a couple. I have no problem with romance in fantasy novels but when the FMC's character development is hindered by her romantic relationships, that's where I tend to lose respect. At the end of the second book, Rielle literally goes from Jon's bed into Brennan's arms and then in the third book, she wonders why her relationship with Brennan didn't work out. Just a guess, but maybe it's because she never had a chance to properly get over Jon before betrothing herself to Brennan. What kind of person has their heart broken by someone and then gets engaged to their enemy-turned-friend/lover and expects a happily ever after? I wasn't a huge fan of that story arc.
Also, ever since the first book we've been hearing about how Rielle is this battle-hardened mage who's one of the best at what she does. Three books in and I have yet to see an instance where she finds herself in trouble and she gets herself out of it. She's constantly being saved by other people and the times when she does actually fight someone, she tends to be either out-maneuvered or overpowered. I like an FMC who can take care of herself and fight her own battles, and that's just not Rielle.
The plot of the series is enough to hold my attention but these frickin relationships are just such a needless distraction. Part of me wishes that the romance portion of this series was completely removed because it really does take away from the larger storyline. I almost don't even want to read the last book but I feel like I'm in too deep to stop now and part of me is really hoping that everyone - especially Rielle - gets their s**t together and finds out how to live with themselves and with each other.
Unfortunately, I was a little disappointed. I thought the upward trajectory from Book 2 would continue into Book 3 but it didn't. In the first book, the three main characters (Rielle, Jon, Brennan) were all kind of annoying but likable, for the most part (except Brennan). In the second book, Jon was a complete hot mess, Brennan's character actually improved, and Rielle was too busy dealing with being sold into slavery to be annoying. Third book: Jon at least has his stuff figured out but Rielle and Brennan almost made me pass out from how often I was sighing. I don't think either of them developed enough as individuals to justify them trying to exist as a couple. I have no problem with romance in fantasy novels but when the FMC's character development is hindered by her romantic relationships, that's where I tend to lose respect. At the end of the second book, Rielle literally goes from Jon's bed into Brennan's arms and then in the third book, she wonders why her relationship with Brennan didn't work out. Just a guess, but maybe it's because she never had a chance to properly get over Jon before betrothing herself to Brennan. What kind of person has their heart broken by someone and then gets engaged to their enemy-turned-friend/lover and expects a happily ever after? I wasn't a huge fan of that story arc.
Also, ever since the first book we've been hearing about how Rielle is this battle-hardened mage who's one of the best at what she does. Three books in and I have yet to see an instance where she finds herself in trouble and she gets herself out of it. She's constantly being saved by other people and the times when she does actually fight someone, she tends to be either out-maneuvered or overpowered. I like an FMC who can take care of herself and fight her own battles, and that's just not Rielle.
The plot of the series is enough to hold my attention but these frickin relationships are just such a needless distraction. Part of me wishes that the romance portion of this series was completely removed because it really does take away from the larger storyline. I almost don't even want to read the last book but I feel like I'm in too deep to stop now and part of me is really hoping that everyone - especially Rielle - gets their s**t together and finds out how to live with themselves and with each other.
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