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The Uncharted Realms #4
The Arrows of the Heart
A STRANGER'S FAITH
As the Twelve Kingdoms and their allies are drawn toward war, a princess cast aside must discover a purpose she never dreamed of...
Karyn af Hardie behaved like a proper Dasnarian wife. She acquiesced, she accepted, she submitted. Until her husband gave her a their loveless, unconsummated royal marriage--or her freedom. Karyn chose freedom. But with nowhere to run except into the arms of Dasnaria's enemies, she wonders if she's made a mistake. She wants love, security, a family. She can't imagine finding any of it among the mercurial Tala.
Worst of all is Zyr. The uninhibited shapeshifter is everywhere she looks. He's magnetic, relentless, teasing and tempting as if she's free to take her pleasure where she wishes. As if there isn't a war rising before them, against a vile and demanding force far stronger than they. But with Karyn's loyalty far from certain, Zyr offers her only chance to aid the defense--a dangerous gambit to seek out a land not seen in centuries, using clues no one can decipher.
Together, they'll have every opportunity to fail--and one chance to steal something truly precious...
***
"I think where this author truly excels is in her ability to give us engaging, believable heroines that pull us into her worlds and with Karyn she is absolutely spot on. (...) There's genuine emotion in this harrowing and yet enchanting story that pits mortals against ancient Gods and its a series that I never want to end."
Marta Cox on Goodreads
"This is a series that benefits from reading in order. Each book wraps up a romantic fantasy in its own charming ribbons, but also serves to advance the overall plot of the series. That being said, I think you could hop into THE ARROWS OF THE HEART without being lost, and enjoy it for its own yummy goodness before plowing gleefully into the rest of the series. "
Make Kay on Goodreads
"It was also a tale of empowerment, finding strength within yourself and being your own hero among so many other things."
Timitra on Goodreads
As the Twelve Kingdoms and their allies are drawn toward war, a princess cast aside must discover a purpose she never dreamed of...
Karyn af Hardie behaved like a proper Dasnarian wife. She acquiesced, she accepted, she submitted. Until her husband gave her a their loveless, unconsummated royal marriage--or her freedom. Karyn chose freedom. But with nowhere to run except into the arms of Dasnaria's enemies, she wonders if she's made a mistake. She wants love, security, a family. She can't imagine finding any of it among the mercurial Tala.
Worst of all is Zyr. The uninhibited shapeshifter is everywhere she looks. He's magnetic, relentless, teasing and tempting as if she's free to take her pleasure where she wishes. As if there isn't a war rising before them, against a vile and demanding force far stronger than they. But with Karyn's loyalty far from certain, Zyr offers her only chance to aid the defense--a dangerous gambit to seek out a land not seen in centuries, using clues no one can decipher.
Together, they'll have every opportunity to fail--and one chance to steal something truly precious...
***
"I think where this author truly excels is in her ability to give us engaging, believable heroines that pull us into her worlds and with Karyn she is absolutely spot on. (...) There's genuine emotion in this harrowing and yet enchanting story that pits mortals against ancient Gods and its a series that I never want to end."
Marta Cox on Goodreads
"This is a series that benefits from reading in order. Each book wraps up a romantic fantasy in its own charming ribbons, but also serves to advance the overall plot of the series. That being said, I think you could hop into THE ARROWS OF THE HEART without being lost, and enjoy it for its own yummy goodness before plowing gleefully into the rest of the series. "
Make Kay on Goodreads
"It was also a tale of empowerment, finding strength within yourself and being your own hero among so many other things."
Timitra on Goodreads
380 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 9, 2018
91 people are currently reading
375 people want to read
About the author
Jeffe Kennedy
98 books1,336 followers💙She/her💙 Award-winning Bestselling Author of epic fantasy romance. Taoist. Swiftie. Santa Fean. Cat lady @sfwa_inc Past-President. Rep by @seyitsme
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
September 28, 2018
Four and a half
A triumphant return to those who live within the Twelve Kingdoms ( or should that be Thirteen now ?) as we catch up with Karyn struggling to find her place away from Dasnaria. To go back to her homeland means death but to this young woman who has always been cosseted and supported being alone can only mean poverty and starvation. Karyn knows the shapeshifters of Annfwn don’t fully trust her but there’s one who seems determined to ruffle her composure and perhaps take from her her most precious possession.
Zyr is fascinated by the lovely golden haired woman who holds her bow exactly how he wishes to touch her, with confidence and expertise but Karyn persistently shies away . Yet his Queen also sees something special about Karyn and sends them off on a mission to find a fabled land that could hold ancient secrets to save them all in the war that’s coming ever closer .
This story only helps to further excite this reader as I never know exactly where the story will go next. Admittedly it didn’t quite pull me in as quickly as some but I think that’s because I wasn’t initially that enamoured by Zyr. My problem is I prefer big, bad ,alpha type heroes and this playful, philandering would be lover took a while to cement himself in my imagination as worthy but boy when he did it was a total transformation and yes pun is intended !
I think where this author truly excels is in her ability to give us engaging, believable heroines that pull us into her worlds and with Karyn she is absolutely spot on. This young woman might start as a downtrodden dove but she grows to be a lion that roars. Karyn without realising it has always been a square peg in the proverbial round hole and only her love and duty towards her family has held her back. Reading about her development and seeing her become a woman of her own making was truly satisfying.
I’m reluctant to give spoilers but will say that this couple grow together through adversity and what begins as a story with Karyn needing Zyr to protect her is turned completely on its head by the final page. I couldn’t guess how this would end and there are both shocks and surprises but I can happily divulge that the slowly built romance is absolutely intense and I cannot believe I didn’t see through Zyr and his player ways sooner ! There’s genuine emotion in this harrowing and yet enchanting story that pits mortals against ancient Gods and its a series that I never want to end.
This voluntary take is of an advance copy and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
A triumphant return to those who live within the Twelve Kingdoms ( or should that be Thirteen now ?) as we catch up with Karyn struggling to find her place away from Dasnaria. To go back to her homeland means death but to this young woman who has always been cosseted and supported being alone can only mean poverty and starvation. Karyn knows the shapeshifters of Annfwn don’t fully trust her but there’s one who seems determined to ruffle her composure and perhaps take from her her most precious possession.
Zyr is fascinated by the lovely golden haired woman who holds her bow exactly how he wishes to touch her, with confidence and expertise but Karyn persistently shies away . Yet his Queen also sees something special about Karyn and sends them off on a mission to find a fabled land that could hold ancient secrets to save them all in the war that’s coming ever closer .
This story only helps to further excite this reader as I never know exactly where the story will go next. Admittedly it didn’t quite pull me in as quickly as some but I think that’s because I wasn’t initially that enamoured by Zyr. My problem is I prefer big, bad ,alpha type heroes and this playful, philandering would be lover took a while to cement himself in my imagination as worthy but boy when he did it was a total transformation and yes pun is intended !
I think where this author truly excels is in her ability to give us engaging, believable heroines that pull us into her worlds and with Karyn she is absolutely spot on. This young woman might start as a downtrodden dove but she grows to be a lion that roars. Karyn without realising it has always been a square peg in the proverbial round hole and only her love and duty towards her family has held her back. Reading about her development and seeing her become a woman of her own making was truly satisfying.
I’m reluctant to give spoilers but will say that this couple grow together through adversity and what begins as a story with Karyn needing Zyr to protect her is turned completely on its head by the final page. I couldn’t guess how this would end and there are both shocks and surprises but I can happily divulge that the slowly built romance is absolutely intense and I cannot believe I didn’t see through Zyr and his player ways sooner ! There’s genuine emotion in this harrowing and yet enchanting story that pits mortals against ancient Gods and its a series that I never want to end.
This voluntary take is of an advance copy and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
November 29, 2024
This book is awesome!
Karyn and Zyr are great together. Karyn is on her own for the first time in her life, unused to making decisions for herself, and unused to handsome men flirting with her. For Zyr flirting with pretty girls seems to be as natural as breathing, but let me tell you: there is so much more to him than what he shows on the outside. I loved their banter, and the growing attraction between them. Voodoo Bride wants me to add that Zyr is the yummiest of all the yummy men in this series, and he is totally her favorite.
Next to the delicious romance there is a very cool action storyline. Karyn and Zyr are looking for a lost land, but others are seeking it as well. There is danger, and the things the two of them encounter and endure are creepy and disturbing. I was rooting for them to stay alive. I could wax poetic about all the cool and creepy stuff in this book, but it would be too spoilery though.
This being a Fantasy Romance there is a very satisfying end to this book, but the problems for the Twelve Kingdoms aren't over yet, so I'm eagerly awaiting the next book in this series, both hoping that everyone gets a happily-ever-after, and hoping that the happily-ever-after will take many books to reach.
Karyn and Zyr are great together. Karyn is on her own for the first time in her life, unused to making decisions for herself, and unused to handsome men flirting with her. For Zyr flirting with pretty girls seems to be as natural as breathing, but let me tell you: there is so much more to him than what he shows on the outside. I loved their banter, and the growing attraction between them. Voodoo Bride wants me to add that Zyr is the yummiest of all the yummy men in this series, and he is totally her favorite.
Next to the delicious romance there is a very cool action storyline. Karyn and Zyr are looking for a lost land, but others are seeking it as well. There is danger, and the things the two of them encounter and endure are creepy and disturbing. I was rooting for them to stay alive. I could wax poetic about all the cool and creepy stuff in this book, but it would be too spoilery though.
This being a Fantasy Romance there is a very satisfying end to this book, but the problems for the Twelve Kingdoms aren't over yet, so I'm eagerly awaiting the next book in this series, both hoping that everyone gets a happily-ever-after, and hoping that the happily-ever-after will take many books to reach.
March 30, 2021
I don't know how I missed it, but somehow, I overlooked that there are two more books in the Uncharted Realms series. For some reason, I thought it was a trilogy, so I was super-stoked to discover there were more books.
And this one totally delivered.
Karyn was Kral's wife who asked for an annulment in Edge of the Blade and it would've been so easy to write her off as a weak, spineless character, thanks to the awfulness that is Dasnarian culture. But Jeffe Kennedy makes her...more. Karyn took a real chance in leaving her homeland. She gave up everything and everyone she's ever known on the hope and the promise of a better life.
Is she submissive? Yeah. Especially in the beginning. While that is generally not my bag, I've got to say there is so much more to her than that. And I kind of loved her.
Then there is Kyr. He's this kind of happy-go-lucky, fun-loving sort-of rogue. He can't understand monogamy or modesty or any of the things that touchstones for Karyn. But he sees her value and he takes the time to learn who she is.
Their budding friendship and slow-burn romance happens against the backdrop of their search for this lost shapeshifter/dragon island so they can stop the onslaught of the Deryrr. Such great, creepy villains! It happens concurrently with The Shift of the Tide which centers on Zynda (Kyr's twin sister) --and the endings of the two books come together in a very satisfying way.
As always, the world building is fantastic. The characters are very, very well drawn. I cared about the romance, and the overarching plot kept me turning the pages.
A really good book in an awesome series, and I am really excited that there is one more story still left. I can't wait to see how it all ends.
And this one totally delivered.
Karyn was Kral's wife who asked for an annulment in Edge of the Blade and it would've been so easy to write her off as a weak, spineless character, thanks to the awfulness that is Dasnarian culture. But Jeffe Kennedy makes her...more. Karyn took a real chance in leaving her homeland. She gave up everything and everyone she's ever known on the hope and the promise of a better life.
Is she submissive? Yeah. Especially in the beginning. While that is generally not my bag, I've got to say there is so much more to her than that. And I kind of loved her.
Then there is Kyr. He's this kind of happy-go-lucky, fun-loving sort-of rogue. He can't understand monogamy or modesty or any of the things that touchstones for Karyn. But he sees her value and he takes the time to learn who she is.
Their budding friendship and slow-burn romance happens against the backdrop of their search for this lost shapeshifter/dragon island so they can stop the onslaught of the Deryrr. Such great, creepy villains! It happens concurrently with The Shift of the Tide which centers on Zynda (Kyr's twin sister) --and the endings of the two books come together in a very satisfying way.
As always, the world building is fantastic. The characters are very, very well drawn. I cared about the romance, and the overarching plot kept me turning the pages.
A really good book in an awesome series, and I am really excited that there is one more story still left. I can't wait to see how it all ends.
October 6, 2018
This has to be one of the more difficult relationships in this series of romantic fantasy, the 2 main characters seem to suffer from a love/hate relationship for much of the story but that turns about halfway through but it is still more like a "well I don't hate you anymore" than a love story. Add to the fact that Karyn seems to misunderstand almost everything Zyr says adds to the frustration of the story and to be honest to this reader also but you can see things are building in a positive direction.
The story took a least 3 major twists I never saw coming (which I can't talk about since they are spoilers) but added to a multi-leveled plot that kept me guessing in the "How the hell are they going to get out of this" mindset.
If there was any real complaint other than a bit of frustration at times it would be the buildup to the end and then a seemingly rushed ending but even then while I did not like it I can see we have to keep the main plot of the probable war with the Evil Priestess and what seems to be her undead army alive until she writes the last book which I assume will be a large war scenario.
Bottom Line: I enjoyed it, did not get all the revenge I wanted but I am sure it is coming. The sex may have been overdone for this story in my opinion but that varies from reader to reader. It does keep the story alive and I can't wait to see who and where the next one goes.
The story took a least 3 major twists I never saw coming (which I can't talk about since they are spoilers) but added to a multi-leveled plot that kept me guessing in the "How the hell are they going to get out of this" mindset.
If there was any real complaint other than a bit of frustration at times it would be the buildup to the end and then a seemingly rushed ending but even then while I did not like it I can see we have to keep the main plot of the probable war with the Evil Priestess and what seems to be her undead army alive until she writes the last book which I assume will be a large war scenario.
Bottom Line: I enjoyed it, did not get all the revenge I wanted but I am sure it is coming. The sex may have been overdone for this story in my opinion but that varies from reader to reader. It does keep the story alive and I can't wait to see who and where the next one goes.
August 12, 2019
I'm such a big fan of this series and The Arrows of the Heart is another fascinating and delightful adventure - a road trip romance of the fantasy sort!
Heroine Karyn was introduced earlier in the series and has escaped from the repressive and misogynistic Dasnaria but the threat from her old homeland is definitely not over. With shapeshifter Zyr she is on a quest to find a forgotten land, one that may hold the answers they seek or could lead to more death and destruction. The only way to find out is to take the quest through to the end. There is lots of action, fabulous worldbuilding and while the story arc of the series continues, this definitely has a separate sexy romance with a well deserved happy ending for this quite opposite couple. I loved seeing how Zyr gets Karyn to acknowledge her strengths, throw off her old habits and learn to live for herself. At the same time the wise cracking and flirtatious Zyr has a serious side and hasn't had an easy life either so it was good to see him find a partner who accepts all of him, including his animal forms. While some answers are found, the danger is not over for the inhabitants of the Twelve Kingdoms. There's clearly more to be told in this world and I can't wait to read whatever comes next!
A copy of this story was provided by the author for review.
Heroine Karyn was introduced earlier in the series and has escaped from the repressive and misogynistic Dasnaria but the threat from her old homeland is definitely not over. With shapeshifter Zyr she is on a quest to find a forgotten land, one that may hold the answers they seek or could lead to more death and destruction. The only way to find out is to take the quest through to the end. There is lots of action, fabulous worldbuilding and while the story arc of the series continues, this definitely has a separate sexy romance with a well deserved happy ending for this quite opposite couple. I loved seeing how Zyr gets Karyn to acknowledge her strengths, throw off her old habits and learn to live for herself. At the same time the wise cracking and flirtatious Zyr has a serious side and hasn't had an easy life either so it was good to see him find a partner who accepts all of him, including his animal forms. While some answers are found, the danger is not over for the inhabitants of the Twelve Kingdoms. There's clearly more to be told in this world and I can't wait to read whatever comes next!
A copy of this story was provided by the author for review.
October 16, 2018
The Arrows of the Heart is fantasy romance perfection. Every time Kennedy releases another Twelve Kingdoms-series book she brings us another heroine who comes through the fire changed, stronger, formidable. And wow did she ever give Karyn and Zyr a heart pounding journey.
So, so, so good. If you are in the mood for fantasy romance, pick this up. If you haven’t read any of the Twelve Kingdoms trilogy or spinoffs, start from the beginning and prepare to book binge!
Review posted at Reading Between the Wines Book Club:
http://www.readingbetweenthewinesbook...
So, so, so good. If you are in the mood for fantasy romance, pick this up. If you haven’t read any of the Twelve Kingdoms trilogy or spinoffs, start from the beginning and prepare to book binge!
Review posted at Reading Between the Wines Book Club:
http://www.readingbetweenthewinesbook...
December 2, 2018
4.5 stars
Review originally posted at BooksOfMyHeart.net.
As Ms. Kennedy continues to expand the world she has created with The Twelve Kingdoms and The Uncharted Realms, we take two characters who’ve had minor roles in previous books and bring them together.
Zyr is one of the Tala and twin brother to Zynda (heroine from The Shift of the Tide). They have be involved in a bit of fun sibling rivalry from the beginning. Zyr’s first form was pretty spectacular in that it was mythical creature called a gríobhth (Zynda’s was a hummingbird). They also tried to have the most number of forms. But Zyr isn’t happy that Zynda is trying to take the final form, which is a dragon, as he doesn’t want to lose her into that form. But Zyr is a total flirt. He also works to teach the children to help them with shifting.
Karyn af Hardie is Kral’s ex-wife (hero from The Edge of the Blade). She was raised to be the perfect Dasnarian woman. She knew her marriage to Kral was nothing more than a political thing. He was not allowed to have any legitimate children who could challenge his brother or his brother’s heir for the throne. So, she was to stay a virgin her whole life. Then she asked for an annulment, to which the king granted and sentenced her to death for it. Then she escaped Dasnaria and back to Annfwn.
Now, Karyn and Zyr have been paired together by Andromeda, queen of Annfwn, to figure out these “map sticks”. They are basically little pieces of driftwood sticks that form a map which can be carried by flying Tala in their claws. Karyn rides him in his gríobhth form as they search for a hidden kingdom. Things get really tense when they are attacked the Deyrr, which has been going on for several books now.
I can’t say much more without giving out spoilers. Let’s just say things do get a bit dark in this story (when compared to the previous books in this series, but not quite as dark as the first book in the The Chronicles of Dasnaria series, Prisoner of the Crown). There is quite a bit of action. The romance is slow to start, as Karyn really wants to hold on to her virginity until marriage and Zyr has a hard time of thinking of monogamy (which he points out to her in the beginning). But things do finally go the right way in the end.
I continue to really love this fantasy romance series. It has great romances from a variety of different types of characters (warriors, princesses, kings, shifters, flirts, and more) from several different types of backgrounds. It really makes for interesting interactions with the cultural differences of all these different characters.It is also interesting to see into the heads of some of the characters, like how Karyn keeps thinking about Dasnaria and how she should react based on the Dasnarian rules, forgetting that she is bound by those rules anymore.
**Book was provided to me by the author. This review is my opinion and was not requested or provoked in anyway by the author.
Review originally posted at BooksOfMyHeart.net.
As Ms. Kennedy continues to expand the world she has created with The Twelve Kingdoms and The Uncharted Realms, we take two characters who’ve had minor roles in previous books and bring them together.
Zyr is one of the Tala and twin brother to Zynda (heroine from The Shift of the Tide). They have be involved in a bit of fun sibling rivalry from the beginning. Zyr’s first form was pretty spectacular in that it was mythical creature called a gríobhth (Zynda’s was a hummingbird). They also tried to have the most number of forms. But Zyr isn’t happy that Zynda is trying to take the final form, which is a dragon, as he doesn’t want to lose her into that form. But Zyr is a total flirt. He also works to teach the children to help them with shifting.
Karyn af Hardie is Kral’s ex-wife (hero from The Edge of the Blade). She was raised to be the perfect Dasnarian woman. She knew her marriage to Kral was nothing more than a political thing. He was not allowed to have any legitimate children who could challenge his brother or his brother’s heir for the throne. So, she was to stay a virgin her whole life. Then she asked for an annulment, to which the king granted and sentenced her to death for it. Then she escaped Dasnaria and back to Annfwn.
Now, Karyn and Zyr have been paired together by Andromeda, queen of Annfwn, to figure out these “map sticks”. They are basically little pieces of driftwood sticks that form a map which can be carried by flying Tala in their claws. Karyn rides him in his gríobhth form as they search for a hidden kingdom. Things get really tense when they are attacked the Deyrr, which has been going on for several books now.
I can’t say much more without giving out spoilers. Let’s just say things do get a bit dark in this story (when compared to the previous books in this series, but not quite as dark as the first book in the The Chronicles of Dasnaria series, Prisoner of the Crown). There is quite a bit of action. The romance is slow to start, as Karyn really wants to hold on to her virginity until marriage and Zyr has a hard time of thinking of monogamy (which he points out to her in the beginning). But things do finally go the right way in the end.
I continue to really love this fantasy romance series. It has great romances from a variety of different types of characters (warriors, princesses, kings, shifters, flirts, and more) from several different types of backgrounds. It really makes for interesting interactions with the cultural differences of all these different characters.It is also interesting to see into the heads of some of the characters, like how Karyn keeps thinking about Dasnaria and how she should react based on the Dasnarian rules, forgetting that she is bound by those rules anymore.
“I apologize,” I replied. These Tala with their lack of rank and titles—how did anyone know how to address anyone? I knew I’d never be able to call him baldly by his name. It also seemed equally as impolite to just truncate my apology like that. I truly longed for Dasnaria’s clear rules for behavior.
“Don’t apologize so much either,” he bit out, and I swallowed a sigh. Zynda had said the same. Even Thalia had remarked on it. I couldn’t say anything without apologizing again, so I stood there, waiting for him to lose his patience with me entirely, which usually didn’t take long, —I couldn’t imagine how he could be a teacher—so he’d quit blocking my path and let me go have my breakfast. “Where are you going so early anyway?” he asked, when the silence stretched out too long.
I could ask him the same. “I’m going down to the market to buy tea and a sweet roll,” I replied, adding a silent Lord Zyr to make myself feel better and satisfy the voice of my etiquette tutor in my head.
“I’m hungry, too. I’ll join you.”
I would have liked to protest, but I could hardly contradict the command. So I glumly followed along when he turned and headed back the way he’d come. He slowed, so I slowed, too. When he stopped, I stopped, peering at him peripherally to determine what the problem might be.
“Why are you trailing along behind me—something wrong with your feet?” he asked, looking me up and down.
“In Dasnaria, it’s proper for a woman to—”
“Well, you’re not in Dasnaria, are you? I don’t see any hulking brutes in armor like giant beetles anywhere around here, stinking up the place, do you?”
I had to suppress a giggle at the image, it shocked me so. “No,” I replied carefully. “We are in Annfwn.”
**Book was provided to me by the author. This review is my opinion and was not requested or provoked in anyway by the author.
October 5, 2018
This series is my favorite Kennedy series. I know I know, yes an author can have different voices, and she so has! Lately I have read one set in the same world, but before The Twelve Kingdoms, and that is not a romance one, but fantasy. And the voice is a whole other authors. Then there was this fantasy romance set in yet another world, and again, totally different voice. But hey, that is why she is the author! But my heart belongs to the first trilogy, and the this new series. This is my favorite voice.
Ok so when I am done rambling about that...
Karyn was married, she was told she had to be a virgin for the rest of her life. Then her husband fell in love and said they could divorce so that he could leave that stinking kingdom behind. But, what about her!? She is not prepared for this world. She was raised to be a princess. She knows nothing else. She tries to become a fighter since Jepp showed her some moves (Jepp who fell in love with her husband who was not allowed to touch her omg just read the previous books.) But Karyn is not really a fighter. And she wants more from life. Sure, being a princess could have been nice. But she would never have been allowed to be a mother. And now she is with the Tala...
Zyr is, oh he is a bit too much, but then he is Tala! They are flirty, they do not care about silly things, sex is not big deal and they are free. Though, now when I start to think about it, that is not the best thing. I mean if you are not sure who your baby daddy is then what stops your kid falling for his half sister! I mean they are inbred enough already. These people need some new boundaries and to start writing down who fathered who. Anyhow, he is a good guy. He is just...a surfer dude! Ha, but yes, I could see that. Carefree, loving and kind.
And he sure flirts with her and tries to get under her skin, and clothes. And she might just need it so that she can learn that women are not tools, women have a voice too. They can be strong on their own (and fall in love too.)
But before the love falling part, they will banterm become closer and fight monsters as they set out on an adventure. And dang! Now I want to know what happens in the next book!? Who is the next book about?
Great series :)
Ok so when I am done rambling about that...
Karyn was married, she was told she had to be a virgin for the rest of her life. Then her husband fell in love and said they could divorce so that he could leave that stinking kingdom behind. But, what about her!? She is not prepared for this world. She was raised to be a princess. She knows nothing else. She tries to become a fighter since Jepp showed her some moves (Jepp who fell in love with her husband who was not allowed to touch her omg just read the previous books.) But Karyn is not really a fighter. And she wants more from life. Sure, being a princess could have been nice. But she would never have been allowed to be a mother. And now she is with the Tala...
Zyr is, oh he is a bit too much, but then he is Tala! They are flirty, they do not care about silly things, sex is not big deal and they are free. Though, now when I start to think about it, that is not the best thing. I mean if you are not sure who your baby daddy is then what stops your kid falling for his half sister! I mean they are inbred enough already. These people need some new boundaries and to start writing down who fathered who. Anyhow, he is a good guy. He is just...a surfer dude! Ha, but yes, I could see that. Carefree, loving and kind.
And he sure flirts with her and tries to get under her skin, and clothes. And she might just need it so that she can learn that women are not tools, women have a voice too. They can be strong on their own (and fall in love too.)
But before the love falling part, they will banterm become closer and fight monsters as they set out on an adventure. And dang! Now I want to know what happens in the next book!? Who is the next book about?
Great series :)
October 9, 2018
It's no secret that The Uncharted Realms has been one of my very favorite fantasy romance series since its inception with The Pages of the Mind... and the series is still going strong with this fourth installment, The Arrows of the Heart.
The heroine of this installment is Karyn af Hardie, the former wife of Kral (hero from The Edge of the Blade). Karyn shocked everyone by acquiescing to an annulment of her marriage, and then barely escaped Dasnaria with Jepp and Kral by the skin of their teeth. Now Karyn is in Annfwn, on her own, and trying to become her own person. She has to unlearn the Dasnarian traditions, which are very oppressive toward women, and figure out what freedom is really about. I wasn't sure about Karyn at first, she seemed to be a bit of a stick in the mud and a little meek and mild for my tastes. But she proved me wrong fairly quickly and I liked her more and more as she came into her own. By the end of the story, Karyn has fully realized herself, her wants, desires and abilities.
Our hero is the fun and flirty Zyr, twin brother to Zynda (heroine from The Shift of the Tide). I have always had a soft spot for Zyr, with his devil-may-care attitude and flirty sensuality. He has never had a problem with women, and so never quite understands the standoffishness of these mossbacks, Daphne and Karyn, who have rebuffed his advances. Thinking Karyn is the mossbackiest of mossbacks, he nevertheless is drawn to her and is determined to be her friend if he can't be her lover. I seriously love Zyr even more now that we have gotten to know him, seen a touch of his vulnerability, and gotten more glimpses of his animal nature.
The relationship between these two was definitely not instalove. The relationship unfolded at a nice pace that flowed well with the story, and the true bonding didn't come until quite late in the book. This allowed us to see how Karyn and Zyr worked together on a common goal, and how they dealt with strife and crises.
In this installment, the High Priestess of Deyyr is again rearing her evil head and trying to take over the world. We learned much more about the disciples of Deyyr, how they came to be, and how the function as a group. The High Priestess makes a good villain, with grand scary plans and horrid methods of accomplishing those goals. The action in the story kept me riveted and I was able to finish this book in one sitting as I flew across the country.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book that I received from the author.
The heroine of this installment is Karyn af Hardie, the former wife of Kral (hero from The Edge of the Blade). Karyn shocked everyone by acquiescing to an annulment of her marriage, and then barely escaped Dasnaria with Jepp and Kral by the skin of their teeth. Now Karyn is in Annfwn, on her own, and trying to become her own person. She has to unlearn the Dasnarian traditions, which are very oppressive toward women, and figure out what freedom is really about. I wasn't sure about Karyn at first, she seemed to be a bit of a stick in the mud and a little meek and mild for my tastes. But she proved me wrong fairly quickly and I liked her more and more as she came into her own. By the end of the story, Karyn has fully realized herself, her wants, desires and abilities.
Our hero is the fun and flirty Zyr, twin brother to Zynda (heroine from The Shift of the Tide). I have always had a soft spot for Zyr, with his devil-may-care attitude and flirty sensuality. He has never had a problem with women, and so never quite understands the standoffishness of these mossbacks, Daphne and Karyn, who have rebuffed his advances. Thinking Karyn is the mossbackiest of mossbacks, he nevertheless is drawn to her and is determined to be her friend if he can't be her lover. I seriously love Zyr even more now that we have gotten to know him, seen a touch of his vulnerability, and gotten more glimpses of his animal nature.
The relationship between these two was definitely not instalove. The relationship unfolded at a nice pace that flowed well with the story, and the true bonding didn't come until quite late in the book. This allowed us to see how Karyn and Zyr worked together on a common goal, and how they dealt with strife and crises.
In this installment, the High Priestess of Deyyr is again rearing her evil head and trying to take over the world. We learned much more about the disciples of Deyyr, how they came to be, and how the function as a group. The High Priestess makes a good villain, with grand scary plans and horrid methods of accomplishing those goals. The action in the story kept me riveted and I was able to finish this book in one sitting as I flew across the country.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book that I received from the author.
October 3, 2018
THE ARROWS OF THE HEART is book 4 in the Uncharted Realms series by Jeffe Kennedy, which is a spin-off series from her fantasy series. This is a series that benefits from reading in order. Each book wraps up a romantic fantasy in its own charming ribbons, but also serves to advance the overall plot of the series. That being said, I think you could hop into THE ARROWS OF THE HEART without being lost, and enjoy it for its own yummy goodness before plowing gleefully into the rest of the series.
Karyn af Hardie is an exile now living in Annfwn, existing tenuously on her own without family or husband for the first time in her life. She left her former homeland, the Empire of Dasnaria, after her unconsummated marriage was dissolved when her ex-husband the Imperial Prince found his true love. Karyn is a noblewoman reared in a culture where the women are sheltered and their lives utterly conscribed. She annoyed me greatly in the beginning of the story because she hadn’t yet figured out how to see past her irritating learned helplessness. Fortunately, shapeshifer Zyr, who is related to the rulers of the kingdom on Annfwn, quickly harasses her out of being such a helpless fribble.
Zyr has his own issues, from his family’s twisted past and his not-so-healthy competition with siblings. But Zyr quickly figures out how to assist both Karyn’s growth and his kingdom’s safety simultaneously. He’s much more noble than he thinks he is, which I love. I also adore how Karyn and Zyr push each other to become better. There is plenty of delightful magic and some creepily chilling evil looming over our hero and heroine as they pursue their mission. The tension kept building steadily, leading me to plow through Kennedy’s THE ARROWS OF THE HEART steadily since I did not want to set it down for an instant.
I will be submitting this book to Fresh Fiction once I get an isbn or ASIN from the author. Once the review is published on FF, I will update this GF review to include just a snippet with a link to the full review on the FF site.
Karyn af Hardie is an exile now living in Annfwn, existing tenuously on her own without family or husband for the first time in her life. She left her former homeland, the Empire of Dasnaria, after her unconsummated marriage was dissolved when her ex-husband the Imperial Prince found his true love. Karyn is a noblewoman reared in a culture where the women are sheltered and their lives utterly conscribed. She annoyed me greatly in the beginning of the story because she hadn’t yet figured out how to see past her irritating learned helplessness. Fortunately, shapeshifer Zyr, who is related to the rulers of the kingdom on Annfwn, quickly harasses her out of being such a helpless fribble.
Zyr has his own issues, from his family’s twisted past and his not-so-healthy competition with siblings. But Zyr quickly figures out how to assist both Karyn’s growth and his kingdom’s safety simultaneously. He’s much more noble than he thinks he is, which I love. I also adore how Karyn and Zyr push each other to become better. There is plenty of delightful magic and some creepily chilling evil looming over our hero and heroine as they pursue their mission. The tension kept building steadily, leading me to plow through Kennedy’s THE ARROWS OF THE HEART steadily since I did not want to set it down for an instant.
I will be submitting this book to Fresh Fiction once I get an isbn or ASIN from the author. Once the review is published on FF, I will update this GF review to include just a snippet with a link to the full review on the FF site.
January 3, 2019
We return once again to the magical world of the Tala and the surrounding Twelve Kingdoms. The Arrows of the Heart picks up the story of Karyn af Hardie, the Dasnarian ex-wife of Kral who gave up her comfortable life and high standing by leaving her home in hopes of finding real love (see The Edge of the Blade). The story overlaps in time with The Shift of the Tide.
I enjoyed Karyn and Zyr’s story quite a bit. I appreciate that it takes time for each to let go of past assumptions and realize love is so much more than they ever imagined. Sent on an important mission, the pair is forced to spend one-on-one time together, and when misfortune plagues the pair, each reevaluates what is truly important. Coming from two completely different cultures with opposing expectations, the pair learns to overcome their differences and find common ground. While the story is only shared from Karyn’s POV, the author does a great job conveying Zyr’s feelings through his actions and words.
In addition to the beautiful romance between Karyn and Zyr, The Arrows of the Heart progresses the plotline of the impending war between the Tala/Twelve Kingdoms and the Deyrr/Dasnairans. In fact, it’s the first time in a couple books I felt like the overall story moved significantly forward. The book ties up some outstanding issues from previous books and appears to be bringing all the parts together in anticipation of the looming war.
Overall, I found The Arrows of the Heart to be a highly entertaining fantasy romance, and I look forward to finding out what is next for the Twelve Kingdoms and their allies.
My Rating: B+ Liked It A Lot
I enjoyed Karyn and Zyr’s story quite a bit. I appreciate that it takes time for each to let go of past assumptions and realize love is so much more than they ever imagined. Sent on an important mission, the pair is forced to spend one-on-one time together, and when misfortune plagues the pair, each reevaluates what is truly important. Coming from two completely different cultures with opposing expectations, the pair learns to overcome their differences and find common ground. While the story is only shared from Karyn’s POV, the author does a great job conveying Zyr’s feelings through his actions and words.
In addition to the beautiful romance between Karyn and Zyr, The Arrows of the Heart progresses the plotline of the impending war between the Tala/Twelve Kingdoms and the Deyrr/Dasnairans. In fact, it’s the first time in a couple books I felt like the overall story moved significantly forward. The book ties up some outstanding issues from previous books and appears to be bringing all the parts together in anticipation of the looming war.
Overall, I found The Arrows of the Heart to be a highly entertaining fantasy romance, and I look forward to finding out what is next for the Twelve Kingdoms and their allies.
My Rating: B+ Liked It A Lot
October 19, 2018
Five Super Intoxicating Stars 💎☆☆☆☆☆ So crazy in love with this world. The good side, my side, was magical and powerful. The evil side was nasty, revengeful, and a tiny bit more powerful than my side. Reading this story felt like watching a horror fantasy. Instead of closing or covering my eyes, I skipped a couple of chapters when Karyn was being pulled under controlling spell. I went straight to the ending, just to shore up my strength. I had to know for sure that this was a happy ending fantasy romance! Then returned to the scary chapters. Yes, I was a wimp. And, of course, the happy ending scenes were totally satisfying!
Zyr was a gorgeous, playful, care free shifter, as well as a wonderful teacher and superior warrior. He didn't understand the concept of being "monogamous" until he met Karyn. She thought she was a nobody whose only gift was as the world class archer. You would love reading how he had helped her discovering her self worth!
The battles against evil forces were raging, while Zyr and Karyn's courting, trying to understand each other as well as themselves were unfolding. What a mesmerizing story! It left me happy and yearning for more. Dying for the next book!
Zyr was a gorgeous, playful, care free shifter, as well as a wonderful teacher and superior warrior. He didn't understand the concept of being "monogamous" until he met Karyn. She thought she was a nobody whose only gift was as the world class archer. You would love reading how he had helped her discovering her self worth!
The battles against evil forces were raging, while Zyr and Karyn's courting, trying to understand each other as well as themselves were unfolding. What a mesmerizing story! It left me happy and yearning for more. Dying for the next book!
November 13, 2018
I really like the characters in these stories. Strong females, even the ones pushed into submissive or subservient roles by society. Very believable reactions to the situations without 'magical thinking, the right prince will fix everything.' Strong stories and plots, and yes, lots of action.
October 19, 2018
Continuing a Great Epic Fantasy Series
The Uncharted Realms series has continued the innovative world and great characters of The Twelve Kingdoms series. This book continues the tradition and whets the appetite for Book #5 (and based on a hint, Book #3 of the parallel Chronicles of Dasnaria series). Love this author, surprising in that I have rarely read epic fantasy. That may be changing.
The Uncharted Realms series has continued the innovative world and great characters of The Twelve Kingdoms series. This book continues the tradition and whets the appetite for Book #5 (and based on a hint, Book #3 of the parallel Chronicles of Dasnaria series). Love this author, surprising in that I have rarely read epic fantasy. That may be changing.
September 27, 2018
Very sweet and intriguing. It build up nicely after the last book. Although Zynda and Marskal are still my favourite couple (<3) Karyn’s character development was very interesting and endearing; I just love how she became someone who fights for herself and the people she loves, how she came to view loving someone as something that empowered her.
I was given and ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I was given and ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 26, 2018
Rated 4.5 Stars
The Arrows Of The Heart was a bit slow at the beginning but what an epic adventure it turned out to be. It was also a tale of empowerment, finding strength within yourself and being your own hero among so many other things. I enjoyed it and cannot wait to read the next book in the series.
ARC provided by author in exchange for a honest review
The Arrows Of The Heart was a bit slow at the beginning but what an epic adventure it turned out to be. It was also a tale of empowerment, finding strength within yourself and being your own hero among so many other things. I enjoyed it and cannot wait to read the next book in the series.
ARC provided by author in exchange for a honest review
December 9, 2018
It's a little hard for me to write this review because as you see ... it took me a while to read this book; as in ... I started it but kept getting ~distracted " " by other books?
I mean I read it, and I loved the scenes with Andi and Rayfe so much I had to re-read The Mark of the Tala, which I quite enjoyed. In fact I think I liked Arrows even more?
Although ... I don't know I guess I wish there had been MORE now?
I L O V E D Zyr. Wow. Like ... he might be up there on the hero list. Which is giving me all the warm fuzzies and the 4 stars.
I think at some point like the character started annoying me maybe 75% in? [After I really got into it, post the putting it down. ... See why this is hard for me? I'm the type to read through the book in a few hours, so this is very ... confusing. I really liked it, but I also didn't like it enough to read it through but I still really liked it!] WHAT IS EVEN HAPPENING.
I think ... while I personally disliked it I also really appreciated how committed Jeffe Kennedy was to writing Karyn as Dasnarian/true to herself. Like - some of the annoying things " " about her were necessary because she has been SO conditioned. Practically brainwashed by her culture and upbringing. And it drives Zyr bananas - it takes him a while to understand her. And her him. Quite the cross cultural experience. Literally.
So I really liked how well that was handled. Even as some of it had me 😒
And omg holy shit the ceremony of Deyrr or whatever. Holy shit. O_O holy shit.
I REALLY want to know what happened to all the other ~mythological creatures in the "zoo." This book also made me want to re-read Zynda's book ... when I remember not so much adoring it. Ermergerh if Zyr takes "final form." And his griffin 😍
And holy cow when they finally have sex it is H O T.
I think ... I guess I had wished for a teensy bit more in the end? It felt a bit too abrupt.
LOVED that Zynda and Zyr battled. So cute! So fitting! <3
I also wish there was more known about the crystal from the "High Priestess" also holy shit WTF are they ALL zombies? AND WHAT THE HELL WITH THE IDOL COMING TO LIFE AND WHAT IS HAPPENING AND WHERE ARE HIS TEETH.
Like I have SO MANY QUESTIONS!!! ... I so freaking love Andi and Rayfe. And Karyn and Zyr might have taken out Dafne and her guy [see? :P] as my second favorite couple in this universe.
Zyr! What a sweetheart! <3
[I think a teeeeeeeennnsy bit what I'm feeling might also be like 3% colored by the book I started immediately after reading this one because I was like "OMG MUST STOP THE BOOK HANGOVER BY JUMPING INTO ANOTHER ONE.]
... I so see myself re-reading this book. God I love this universe.
C+ B- or ... B? I DON'T KNOW
I mean I read it, and I loved the scenes with Andi and Rayfe so much I had to re-read The Mark of the Tala, which I quite enjoyed. In fact I think I liked Arrows even more?
Although ... I don't know I guess I wish there had been MORE now?
I L O V E D Zyr. Wow. Like ... he might be up there on the hero list. Which is giving me all the warm fuzzies and the 4 stars.
I think at some point like the character started annoying me maybe 75% in? [After I really got into it, post the putting it down. ... See why this is hard for me? I'm the type to read through the book in a few hours, so this is very ... confusing. I really liked it, but I also didn't like it enough to read it through but I still really liked it!] WHAT IS EVEN HAPPENING.
I think ... while I personally disliked it I also really appreciated how committed Jeffe Kennedy was to writing Karyn as Dasnarian/true to herself. Like - some of the annoying things " " about her were necessary because she has been SO conditioned. Practically brainwashed by her culture and upbringing. And it drives Zyr bananas - it takes him a while to understand her. And her him. Quite the cross cultural experience. Literally.
So I really liked how well that was handled. Even as some of it had me 😒
And omg holy shit the ceremony of Deyrr or whatever. Holy shit. O_O holy shit.
I REALLY want to know what happened to all the other ~mythological creatures in the "zoo." This book also made me want to re-read Zynda's book ... when I remember not so much adoring it. Ermergerh if Zyr takes "final form." And his griffin 😍
And holy cow when they finally have sex it is H O T.
I think ... I guess I had wished for a teensy bit more in the end? It felt a bit too abrupt.
LOVED that Zynda and Zyr battled. So cute! So fitting! <3
I also wish there was more known about the crystal from the "High Priestess" also holy shit WTF are they ALL zombies? AND WHAT THE HELL WITH THE IDOL COMING TO LIFE AND WHAT IS HAPPENING AND WHERE ARE HIS TEETH.
Like I have SO MANY QUESTIONS!!! ... I so freaking love Andi and Rayfe. And Karyn and Zyr might have taken out Dafne and her guy [see? :P] as my second favorite couple in this universe.
Zyr! What a sweetheart! <3
[I think a teeeeeeeennnsy bit what I'm feeling might also be like 3% colored by the book I started immediately after reading this one because I was like "OMG MUST STOP THE BOOK HANGOVER BY JUMPING INTO ANOTHER ONE.]
... I so see myself re-reading this book. God I love this universe.
C+ B- or ... B? I DON'T KNOW
October 14, 2018
Originally published at Reading Reality
As our story begins in this fourth book in the Uncharted Realms series, Karyn of Hardie, the exiled former future Empress of Dasnaria, is adrift among the shape shifting Tala in Annfwyn – trying to figure out where she belongs and looking for a purpose to replace everything she left behind.
Meanwhile clinging to the rules and restrictions of her past that marked her as a pampered, protected, caged upper-class woman in Dasnaria.
Considering that the Tala have very few rules about behavior of any kind (I don’t think they have much past Wheaton’s Law), almost no respect for rank and very little consideration of privilege of any kind, Karyn is as completely at sea as anyone could be on dry land.
To add to her complete and utter confusion, she is being romantically pursued by Tyr, who would be a kind of prince where she came from, but in Annfwyn is just another Tala. And a seemingly feckless one at that.
Tyr has plenty of power, but he’s been a bit flighty for most of his life. Particularly when it comes to sexual conquests – not that the Tala have anything like the taboos and prohibitions that Karyn is used to. But Tyr has been fairly free with his favors for most of his life – while Karyn risked literally everything for the possibility of true love, real romance, permanence and eventually children.
She’s looking for normal, while Tyr seems to be looking for a good time. Unfortunately for both of them, life in the now Thirteen Kingdoms is anything but normal. Annfwyn and the rest of the Kingdoms are preparing for war. War with the evil Deyrr, and war with Karyn’s former home – Dasnaria.
The Tala are sorcerers whose power is based on life magic. The Deyrr are as far opposite as can be imagined. To call them necromancers is possibly an insult to necromancers. They’re really that bad.
But the Queen of the Tala has foreseen that the war is at a crossroads. In order for there to be even the possibility of victory, she must send Karyn and Tyr, together, into the heart of darkness. And hope against hope that Karyn makes the hard choice one more time.
Escape Rating A-: Like nearly all of the books in the Twelve Kingdoms/Uncharted Realms series, this book is absolutely awesomesauce. But also like many of the books in this series, and the spinoff Chronicles of Dasnaria series, it is not for the faint of heart. The treatment of women in Dasnaria is enough to give any woman flashbacks of one kind or another. And the Deryrr seem to worship evil as well as death. Anytime they show up, it makes for very hard reading. Necessary to the story, but hard.
This story is the fourth book in the Uncharted Realms series, which makes it the seventh in the combined series. That’s a lot of backstory. And while you don’t HAVE to have read the whole thing, if you enjoy epic fantasy with romance blended in, the series is definitely worth a read. Howsomever, the action in this particular entry is a direct followup from its two immediate predecessors in the series, The Edge of the Blade and The Shift of the Tide. How Karyn ended up in Annfwyn is a result of events in The Edge of the Blade, while Tyr’s emotional state follows from his sister’s actions in The Shift of the Tide. Neither begins this story in a good place.
However, I found Karyn’s actions and reactions much easier to understand after reading the Chronicles of Dasnaria, particularly the first book Prisoner of the Crown. In that story, we see how a woman very similar to Karyn was raised, or perhaps it should be phrased as brainwashed or conditioned. Having followed Jenna’s journey it’s much easier to understand why Karyn acts the way she does to the lack of strictures in Tala society.
And that’s what makes The Arrows of the Heart so much Karyn’s story. She’s the butterfly that has broken out of its chrysalis. And it hurts. So she has to decide whether to try her wings or retreat back into her “safe” little shell. Freedom is hard, and the choices she has to keep making to retain it are harder still. That’s what makes her such a powerful heroine.
One final note – I keep conflating this title with Mercedes Lackey’s debut fantasy, Arrows of the Queen. After having finished The Arrows of the Heart, that conflation is not entirely wrong. Although this book, is deeper and darker – as it should be. Lackey’s book was aimed at a young adult audience, while The Arrows of the Heart, and the entire Twelve Kingdoms/Uncharted Realms series is definitely for adults.
But the part about a brave heroine being on a difficult mission for the Queen – well that’s true in both stories. And wonderfully so.
As our story begins in this fourth book in the Uncharted Realms series, Karyn of Hardie, the exiled former future Empress of Dasnaria, is adrift among the shape shifting Tala in Annfwyn – trying to figure out where she belongs and looking for a purpose to replace everything she left behind.
Meanwhile clinging to the rules and restrictions of her past that marked her as a pampered, protected, caged upper-class woman in Dasnaria.
Considering that the Tala have very few rules about behavior of any kind (I don’t think they have much past Wheaton’s Law), almost no respect for rank and very little consideration of privilege of any kind, Karyn is as completely at sea as anyone could be on dry land.
To add to her complete and utter confusion, she is being romantically pursued by Tyr, who would be a kind of prince where she came from, but in Annfwyn is just another Tala. And a seemingly feckless one at that.
Tyr has plenty of power, but he’s been a bit flighty for most of his life. Particularly when it comes to sexual conquests – not that the Tala have anything like the taboos and prohibitions that Karyn is used to. But Tyr has been fairly free with his favors for most of his life – while Karyn risked literally everything for the possibility of true love, real romance, permanence and eventually children.
She’s looking for normal, while Tyr seems to be looking for a good time. Unfortunately for both of them, life in the now Thirteen Kingdoms is anything but normal. Annfwyn and the rest of the Kingdoms are preparing for war. War with the evil Deyrr, and war with Karyn’s former home – Dasnaria.
The Tala are sorcerers whose power is based on life magic. The Deyrr are as far opposite as can be imagined. To call them necromancers is possibly an insult to necromancers. They’re really that bad.
But the Queen of the Tala has foreseen that the war is at a crossroads. In order for there to be even the possibility of victory, she must send Karyn and Tyr, together, into the heart of darkness. And hope against hope that Karyn makes the hard choice one more time.
Escape Rating A-: Like nearly all of the books in the Twelve Kingdoms/Uncharted Realms series, this book is absolutely awesomesauce. But also like many of the books in this series, and the spinoff Chronicles of Dasnaria series, it is not for the faint of heart. The treatment of women in Dasnaria is enough to give any woman flashbacks of one kind or another. And the Deryrr seem to worship evil as well as death. Anytime they show up, it makes for very hard reading. Necessary to the story, but hard.
This story is the fourth book in the Uncharted Realms series, which makes it the seventh in the combined series. That’s a lot of backstory. And while you don’t HAVE to have read the whole thing, if you enjoy epic fantasy with romance blended in, the series is definitely worth a read. Howsomever, the action in this particular entry is a direct followup from its two immediate predecessors in the series, The Edge of the Blade and The Shift of the Tide. How Karyn ended up in Annfwyn is a result of events in The Edge of the Blade, while Tyr’s emotional state follows from his sister’s actions in The Shift of the Tide. Neither begins this story in a good place.
However, I found Karyn’s actions and reactions much easier to understand after reading the Chronicles of Dasnaria, particularly the first book Prisoner of the Crown. In that story, we see how a woman very similar to Karyn was raised, or perhaps it should be phrased as brainwashed or conditioned. Having followed Jenna’s journey it’s much easier to understand why Karyn acts the way she does to the lack of strictures in Tala society.
And that’s what makes The Arrows of the Heart so much Karyn’s story. She’s the butterfly that has broken out of its chrysalis. And it hurts. So she has to decide whether to try her wings or retreat back into her “safe” little shell. Freedom is hard, and the choices she has to keep making to retain it are harder still. That’s what makes her such a powerful heroine.
One final note – I keep conflating this title with Mercedes Lackey’s debut fantasy, Arrows of the Queen. After having finished The Arrows of the Heart, that conflation is not entirely wrong. Although this book, is deeper and darker – as it should be. Lackey’s book was aimed at a young adult audience, while The Arrows of the Heart, and the entire Twelve Kingdoms/Uncharted Realms series is definitely for adults.
But the part about a brave heroine being on a difficult mission for the Queen – well that’s true in both stories. And wonderfully so.
October 21, 2018
I loved this newest addition to The Uncharted Realms series. It's definitely one of my favorites, if not my new favorite.
I absolutely adored both Karyn and Zyr. I loved the hints of them we got in previous books, and seeing their relationship bloom here was excellent. One of the things I loved about Karyn was that she didn't immediately drop all of the lessons and values of Dasnaria, even the beliefs that are toxic to her. They are deeply a part of her at the beginning of this story, and this is truly her journey to embracing her whole self and realizing who she is past all of the lessons of her childhood. I loved seeing her grow into her own person and discovering what she really wanted out of life and the role Zyr played in that. Zyr was an excellent hero as well. Both rakish and sweet, it was great seeing him realize that he could be more than he ever thought he could be, and Karyn helping him realize that. This was a great take on the rake and virgin, and I could really see how they were making each other stronger by being together. I also really liked the sex scenes which were steamy, raw, and played into some D/s aspects. Their relationship from beginning to end was delightful.
I also loved learning more Deyrr and the magic and history of the world. Deyrr fascinates me, and Kennedy both revealed more about it and created more questions about it and the world in this installment. I can't wait to see how she resolves this storyline. I do wish we had gotten a bit more resolution with the relationship between Karyn and the High Priestess because I did feel like that section wrapped up too quickly. I also would have liked a little more denouement for the relationship between Karyn and Zyr, maybe another chapter or an epilogue, because it did feel like the book wrapped up a little quickly.
Despite that, I adored reading this book. Karyn and Zyr were an amazing couple, and I loved all of their scenes together. This was a deeply romantic, sensual, and fantastic read, and I can't wait to see what else Kennedy has in store for this world.
I absolutely adored both Karyn and Zyr. I loved the hints of them we got in previous books, and seeing their relationship bloom here was excellent. One of the things I loved about Karyn was that she didn't immediately drop all of the lessons and values of Dasnaria, even the beliefs that are toxic to her. They are deeply a part of her at the beginning of this story, and this is truly her journey to embracing her whole self and realizing who she is past all of the lessons of her childhood. I loved seeing her grow into her own person and discovering what she really wanted out of life and the role Zyr played in that. Zyr was an excellent hero as well. Both rakish and sweet, it was great seeing him realize that he could be more than he ever thought he could be, and Karyn helping him realize that. This was a great take on the rake and virgin, and I could really see how they were making each other stronger by being together. I also really liked the sex scenes which were steamy, raw, and played into some D/s aspects. Their relationship from beginning to end was delightful.
I also loved learning more Deyrr and the magic and history of the world. Deyrr fascinates me, and Kennedy both revealed more about it and created more questions about it and the world in this installment. I can't wait to see how she resolves this storyline. I do wish we had gotten a bit more resolution with the relationship between Karyn and the High Priestess because I did feel like that section wrapped up too quickly. I also would have liked a little more denouement for the relationship between Karyn and Zyr, maybe another chapter or an epilogue, because it did feel like the book wrapped up a little quickly.
Despite that, I adored reading this book. Karyn and Zyr were an amazing couple, and I loved all of their scenes together. This was a deeply romantic, sensual, and fantastic read, and I can't wait to see what else Kennedy has in store for this world.
March 17, 2020
I adore Zyr. There is something about a sweet, flirty guy whose casual delights hide a deep & empathetic person. What can I say, I like layers in a man. What-you-see-is-what-you-get doesn’t appeal to me. I like a mystery wrapped in an enigma. And a shifter with a strong cat side, meow.
Really enjoyed this chapter of the 12 Kingdoms Universe. I didn’t read much for a year or so there, so I’m glad I went back and reread Zynda’s story before reading about her twin Zyr. Love their relationship.
Love how easily virginal Karyn had Zyr wrapped around her little finger. The way he opened up to her, that level of mutual trust & friendship preceding their becoming lovers appeals to me. I love how his animal side imprinted on her so deeply that she was able to easily control the gryphon when he was deep in the animal mindset.
I’m not much for the and-then-a-misunderstanding-drove-the-couple apart romantic troupe, so it was a relief that Karyn assuaged Zyr’s fears (in the cabin) in less than a chapter.
02/24/2020
*****
02/26/2020
It’s been awhile since I have been so entranced by a character that I reread a book immediately, even longer if you consider I have the next book in the series at hand.
Karyn is profoundly lonely. The love and security she had as a child never replicated in either enduring friendships or deep love bonds with significant others. She is as Zyr names her, a mossback, a pebble trying to make as few ripples as possible. She thinks too much, worries too much, defers to easily, and apologizes too much.
Zyr is a force of nature. He is sensual and instinctive, sweet and flirty, predatory and possessive. Irreverent. If Kayrn is the stone trying to avoid making ripples, Zyr is the wave drowning her senses, violating her sense of decorum and personal space, disrupting her attempts to distance herself from life. He may seem superficial on the surface with his easy flirting and endless parade of lovers, but scratch the surface and you see the teacher, the natural caretaker, the thoughtful generous man.
While Karyn’s well of pain came as she prepared to marry, Zyr’s pain comes from an absent father and a distant mother. His bond with his twin is deep and abiding, and he loves his fellow Tala, but no significant other has managed to snare his heart.
He imprints on Karyn immediately and instinctually. Yes, she, a pretty girl to pursue, a novel woman who spurns his advances, a challenge. But she’s also a bit like one of his students, a soul in need of guidance and nurturing, one he he feels immediately possessive and protective of.
Zyr gives Karyn wings. Karyn gives Zyr a home. Though, I guess they both do that. They become each other’s home.
Zyr is attracted to Karyn’s submissiveness, but determined to help her grew her own claws. He’s protective and possessive, but not the least controlling. He’s passion and sensuality and embracing life. She is closed off, drifting, waiting, refusing to take control of her destiny. God, I’d love to drown in someone like Zyr. His openness, trustworthiness, and ability to listen with his whole being alone is priceless.
*****
03/16/2020
Quote from Chpt 13 that I keep mentally coming back to. And, yes, like Karyn, I apologize too much.
“I’m sorry,” I offered.
“Don’t apologize,” he snarled.
“I wasn’t apologizing,” I snarled right back. “I was offering sympathy. It’s not my fault that your stupid Common Tongue uses the same words for different things!”
Really enjoyed this chapter of the 12 Kingdoms Universe. I didn’t read much for a year or so there, so I’m glad I went back and reread Zynda’s story before reading about her twin Zyr. Love their relationship.
Love how easily virginal Karyn had Zyr wrapped around her little finger. The way he opened up to her, that level of mutual trust & friendship preceding their becoming lovers appeals to me. I love how his animal side imprinted on her so deeply that she was able to easily control the gryphon when he was deep in the animal mindset.
I’m not much for the and-then-a-misunderstanding-drove-the-couple apart romantic troupe, so it was a relief that Karyn assuaged Zyr’s fears (in the cabin) in less than a chapter.
02/24/2020
*****
02/26/2020
It’s been awhile since I have been so entranced by a character that I reread a book immediately, even longer if you consider I have the next book in the series at hand.
Karyn is profoundly lonely. The love and security she had as a child never replicated in either enduring friendships or deep love bonds with significant others. She is as Zyr names her, a mossback, a pebble trying to make as few ripples as possible. She thinks too much, worries too much, defers to easily, and apologizes too much.
Zyr is a force of nature. He is sensual and instinctive, sweet and flirty, predatory and possessive. Irreverent. If Kayrn is the stone trying to avoid making ripples, Zyr is the wave drowning her senses, violating her sense of decorum and personal space, disrupting her attempts to distance herself from life. He may seem superficial on the surface with his easy flirting and endless parade of lovers, but scratch the surface and you see the teacher, the natural caretaker, the thoughtful generous man.
While Karyn’s well of pain came as she prepared to marry, Zyr’s pain comes from an absent father and a distant mother. His bond with his twin is deep and abiding, and he loves his fellow Tala, but no significant other has managed to snare his heart.
He imprints on Karyn immediately and instinctually. Yes, she, a pretty girl to pursue, a novel woman who spurns his advances, a challenge. But she’s also a bit like one of his students, a soul in need of guidance and nurturing, one he he feels immediately possessive and protective of.
Zyr gives Karyn wings. Karyn gives Zyr a home. Though, I guess they both do that. They become each other’s home.
Zyr is attracted to Karyn’s submissiveness, but determined to help her grew her own claws. He’s protective and possessive, but not the least controlling. He’s passion and sensuality and embracing life. She is closed off, drifting, waiting, refusing to take control of her destiny. God, I’d love to drown in someone like Zyr. His openness, trustworthiness, and ability to listen with his whole being alone is priceless.
*****
03/16/2020
Quote from Chpt 13 that I keep mentally coming back to. And, yes, like Karyn, I apologize too much.
“I’m sorry,” I offered.
“Don’t apologize,” he snarled.
“I wasn’t apologizing,” I snarled right back. “I was offering sympathy. It’s not my fault that your stupid Common Tongue uses the same words for different things!”
October 21, 2018
I've loved all previous Twelve Kingdoms and Uncharted Realms books, so I was eagerly awaiting *The Arrows of the Heart*. Unfortunately, I was quite disappointed. The world-building and action were great as usual, but the love story just wasn't up to par, which actually weakened the book rather than made it stronger. More so than any of the other books, Karyn and Zyr's story suffered from only having Karyn's singular viewpoint because the reader doesn't get a sense of Zyr's evolution. It was a bit of a whiplash at the end. Given how believable the love story was *The Pages of the Mind*, which had much more of a stringent communication barrier, it made it all the more disappointing. This seemed like more of a filler book that needed to get some key action points across.
November 7, 2018
Good but felt like filler
It was ok I guess. I love this series. I want to know what’s going to happen next!! BUT. . Felt like an episode of dragon ball z ... a lot of nothing happening then 2 seconds before the end something substantial happens. A wee bit predictable too. And I feel like I’ve kinda wasted 6 bucks. This could’ve easily been a novella. Was it a novella and I didn’t notice?? Anyhooo I want to know what’s going to happen still and hope she doesn’t churn out a bunch of episo- I mean books. Without advancing the plot further except for 2 pages at a time at the end of the book
It was ok I guess. I love this series. I want to know what’s going to happen next!! BUT. . Felt like an episode of dragon ball z ... a lot of nothing happening then 2 seconds before the end something substantial happens. A wee bit predictable too. And I feel like I’ve kinda wasted 6 bucks. This could’ve easily been a novella. Was it a novella and I didn’t notice?? Anyhooo I want to know what’s going to happen still and hope she doesn’t churn out a bunch of episo- I mean books. Without advancing the plot further except for 2 pages at a time at the end of the book
May 24, 2022
Karyn grew so much during this book. I don't think that it's a spoiler to say that early in the book she felt like everyone left her. I was sad for her because that's a thing that seems to happen to many of us. Her character is great in that she kept going - which made absolute sense to me. Even as a "spoiled" lady (4th most powerful woman in Dasnaria), she was still alone, getting up each day and "working" even without a clear purpose. She's strong in a way that is different from many other warrior women.
I am so impressed with how well the author pulls together different character types and gives both the men and women real back stories and personalities.
I am so impressed with how well the author pulls together different character types and gives both the men and women real back stories and personalities.
January 1, 2021
This is easily the weakest installment in this series thus far, especially following Zynda's story in book 3 (one of my favorite fantasy romances around). It's a fairly standard road trip romance, but what really let it down, for me at least, is that it's a full length novel that felt like it could and should have been a novella. Not a lot happens, overall, so a lot of the narrative felt like padding. I didn't find either main character that compelling, and can't see myself revisiting this book even in a series re-read.
September 16, 2021
This was exactly the balance of fantasy romance I'm often looking for. It reminded me of the way I experienced Anne McCaffrey and Mercedes Lackey when I first read them (middle and high school). There was slightly more backstory missing than usual for diving into book four in a different-character-in-each-book series, but not enough to mess with my enjoyment. (Now, though, I think I'll start at the beginning.)
October 11, 2018
Absolutely loved this story. Surprises through out the whole book. Great to see both Zyr and Karyn's maturity and strength grow as the story progressed. Fabulous chemistry between the pair and the High Priestess was a perfect villain. Stupendous world building.
November 8, 2018
I"m forever a fan of Jeffe Kenedy's work. This continuance of the Uncharted Realms stories was as fantastic as all the previous ones. Love that there are strong and heroic female characters. Vivid world building and always intriguing. Can't wait for the next one which I've pre-ordered!
September 30, 2019
A fantasy romance with a lovely balance between the two elements. It was great to see Karyn come out of the stifling shell of her upbringing and Zyr was the perfect blend of teasing and hot. A wonderful plot twist when Karyn and Zyr reach fabled n'Andana led to great tension in the second half.
October 3, 2018
4.5 stars!
December 14, 2018
It does feel like the types of romances are a little to similar. I liked the story, but wasn't really convinced of the characters based on their previous depictions.
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