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The Lochlann Treaty #1
Winter's Captive
They thought she was a puppet they could manipulate. But this princess is no damsel in distress.
Or at least she doesn’t want to be...
The black X of the Aramach marked the spot where Princess Charlotte’s life was destroyed. Her fiance has been kidnapped by rebel insurgents, and war threatens to crumble her kingdom if he’s not safely returned. Somewhere in the midst of her inner circle, traitors are plotting to prevent their two kingdoms from uniting. Deciding it’s time to take matters into her own hands, Charlie storms from the castle on a mission to save her betrothed.
But the obstacles are many, and her skills are few.
Due to her sheltered existence, she’s knows nothing of her own kingdom or how to survive in it. But time is running out. The drums of war have sounded. Fighting against rebels and assassins; Charlie must find a strength within herself she never knew existed. But will it be enough to bring her prince home and save the kingdom?
Or at least she doesn’t want to be...
The black X of the Aramach marked the spot where Princess Charlotte’s life was destroyed. Her fiance has been kidnapped by rebel insurgents, and war threatens to crumble her kingdom if he’s not safely returned. Somewhere in the midst of her inner circle, traitors are plotting to prevent their two kingdoms from uniting. Deciding it’s time to take matters into her own hands, Charlie storms from the castle on a mission to save her betrothed.
But the obstacles are many, and her skills are few.
Due to her sheltered existence, she’s knows nothing of her own kingdom or how to survive in it. But time is running out. The drums of war have sounded. Fighting against rebels and assassins; Charlie must find a strength within herself she never knew existed. But will it be enough to bring her prince home and save the kingdom?
195 pages, ebook
First published August 21, 2021
543 people are currently reading
4242 people want to read
About the author
Robin D. Mahle
39 books1,215 followersRobin D. Mahle started out as a pen name I shared with my husband for The World Apart Series, but since then, I've absconded with it to delve into the wonderful world of fairy tale retellings and fantasy romances with my partner in crime, Elle Madison.
When I'm not writing, you can find me spending time with my seven hundred cats and drinking wine by the barrel.
When I'm not writing, you can find me spending time with my seven hundred cats and drinking wine by the barrel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 290 reviews
April 19, 2022
2 Stars
I ended up finishing the last 20% and I dislike this book more now🙃 First, it's a little too immature/young for me. Heroine is useless and she won't stop droning on about her love for Oliver (who isn't even the hero). And then not only does Oliver turn out to have been unfaithful in all those years they have been together, but we also get to see the "real" hero, his brother, going off to sleep with an ow towards then end, "apparently he turned her down" and them kissing the next morning 🤮 maybe the next book will be better with some development though 😅
I ended up finishing the last 20% and I dislike this book more now🙃 First, it's a little too immature/young for me. Heroine is useless and she won't stop droning on about her love for Oliver (who isn't even the hero). And then not only does Oliver turn out to have been unfaithful in all those years they have been together, but we also get to see the "real" hero, his brother, going off to sleep with an ow towards then end, "apparently he turned her down" and them kissing the next morning 🤮 maybe the next book will be better with some development though 😅
Want to read
April 28, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (4/28/2019)! 🎁
December 30, 2018
Got this book free in exchange for an honest review.
The story premise was very interesting. Almost a gender bender where the girl goes on a quest to save the boy.
Gosh, I really want to say I enjoyed this book but I feel as if I was given only a third of the novel. The whole book was about the main character searching for her fiance. I wouldn't mind this at all if the story was written with more detail but the whole book was practically about them making their way to the next inn. The days were rushed and then they stayed at an inn. This was pretty much the whole book until the ending, which was soooooooo abrupt.
I also feel that the main character had nothing to contribute to the story except for being the love interest. She has no skills whatsoever and was a nuisance the whole time. I didn't understand why she was even on the quest. Everyone would have taken the same routes and same actions if she was not there. Actually, I think she was more of a hindrance than anything. I really wanted her to be a strong female character, but got the complete opposite, which is very disappointing.
As for the other characters, I think there was a lack in character building. I don't feel as if they were fleshed out. I can't relate to any of them and therefore couldn't care less what happens to anyone.
The world building is lacking as well. I honestly can't remember anything about the world except there are warring countries.
The story started off strong but went down hill. I really really wanted to like this book. I'm disappointed.
Positive: the cover is pretty
The story premise was very interesting. Almost a gender bender where the girl goes on a quest to save the boy.
Gosh, I really want to say I enjoyed this book but I feel as if I was given only a third of the novel. The whole book was about the main character searching for her fiance. I wouldn't mind this at all if the story was written with more detail but the whole book was practically about them making their way to the next inn. The days were rushed and then they stayed at an inn. This was pretty much the whole book until the ending, which was soooooooo abrupt.
I also feel that the main character had nothing to contribute to the story except for being the love interest. She has no skills whatsoever and was a nuisance the whole time. I didn't understand why she was even on the quest. Everyone would have taken the same routes and same actions if she was not there. Actually, I think she was more of a hindrance than anything. I really wanted her to be a strong female character, but got the complete opposite, which is very disappointing.
As for the other characters, I think there was a lack in character building. I don't feel as if they were fleshed out. I can't relate to any of them and therefore couldn't care less what happens to anyone.
The world building is lacking as well. I honestly can't remember anything about the world except there are warring countries.
The story started off strong but went down hill. I really really wanted to like this book. I'm disappointed.
Positive: the cover is pretty
November 22, 2023
I finally picked this up and pushed through this book. Charlie is annoying as can be to me. Her character and Logan’s characters feel super one dimensional. This book had so much potential but each scene was going to a new inn. I’m hoping the next book gets better…
April 12, 2021
YA fantasy has always been my favorite. However, the past few months, I'd been in a slump. I struggled getting through anything fantasy...
Until this book.
I loved Winter's Captive! The world Robin and Elle have created is so enrapturing. The story immediately starts off with the disappearance of Princess Charlotte's fiance on the morning of their wedding day, which caught my attention. There is a perfect balance of descriptions and quick pace. It isn't bogged down by the world-building, but the authors still pull the reader into this rich, beautiful kingdom.
Princess Charlotte, or Charlie, isn't content sitting around while the armies search for Prince Oliver. Instead, she and her best friend Isla disguise themselves with men's armor to follow after the other soldiers. They overheard important information they need to get to Finn and Logan, her brother and Oliver's brother respectively, and they don't trust anyone to do so.
After an attack on the soldiers, Logan goes off to find Oliver on his own. Charlie and Oliver's two kingdoms have been on the brink of returning to war their whole lives. The peace depends on their wedding. More than that, though, their betrothal might have been arranged when they were born, but they are friends and love each other. So, once again, Charlie refuses to just wait around; she follows after Logan and, together, they face thieves, the harsh winter weather, and their dislike of each other while searching for Oliver.
Any time the main female character goes against the norm of how their society functions to fight for someone or something, I'm in. Charlie's determination and need to not only find Oliver but stop the impending war is admirable. Also, because I'm me, I love her relationship with Logan. They bicker nonstop, but you can tell there's more beneath the surface of what we're seeing. The fact that they used to be friends until he "hated" her makes me think there were some feelings there that he knew he couldn't act on. Maybe that's just me being hopeful.
In short, I absolutely loved this book. It broke me out of my slump, and I cannot wait to jump into the next book!
**Original review on YA Books Central.
Until this book.
I loved Winter's Captive! The world Robin and Elle have created is so enrapturing. The story immediately starts off with the disappearance of Princess Charlotte's fiance on the morning of their wedding day, which caught my attention. There is a perfect balance of descriptions and quick pace. It isn't bogged down by the world-building, but the authors still pull the reader into this rich, beautiful kingdom.
Princess Charlotte, or Charlie, isn't content sitting around while the armies search for Prince Oliver. Instead, she and her best friend Isla disguise themselves with men's armor to follow after the other soldiers. They overheard important information they need to get to Finn and Logan, her brother and Oliver's brother respectively, and they don't trust anyone to do so.
After an attack on the soldiers, Logan goes off to find Oliver on his own. Charlie and Oliver's two kingdoms have been on the brink of returning to war their whole lives. The peace depends on their wedding. More than that, though, their betrothal might have been arranged when they were born, but they are friends and love each other. So, once again, Charlie refuses to just wait around; she follows after Logan and, together, they face thieves, the harsh winter weather, and their dislike of each other while searching for Oliver.
Any time the main female character goes against the norm of how their society functions to fight for someone or something, I'm in. Charlie's determination and need to not only find Oliver but stop the impending war is admirable. Also, because I'm me, I love her relationship with Logan. They bicker nonstop, but you can tell there's more beneath the surface of what we're seeing. The fact that they used to be friends until he "hated" her makes me think there were some feelings there that he knew he couldn't act on. Maybe that's just me being hopeful.
In short, I absolutely loved this book. It broke me out of my slump, and I cannot wait to jump into the next book!
**Original review on YA Books Central.
December 26, 2018
This book blew away the already high expectations I had for it. There wasn't a single part I didn't like.
When Charlotte's fiancé is stole on the day of their wedding, she vows to save him, following behind the rescue force lead by her would-be brother in law. Soon, she finds herself on the trail of the kingdom's rebels with only said brother in-law for company. They can't stand each other, but they both want to succeed in their rescue mission at all costs.
I feel like there are so many secrets that have yet to be revealed and I can't wait to see how Charlie progresses with what I think is going on. I could be wrong because the book is twisty though.
And I could kill the authors for the ending, especially because I don't have book two yet. Give it to me!!!
When Charlotte's fiancé is stole on the day of their wedding, she vows to save him, following behind the rescue force lead by her would-be brother in law. Soon, she finds herself on the trail of the kingdom's rebels with only said brother in-law for company. They can't stand each other, but they both want to succeed in their rescue mission at all costs.
I feel like there are so many secrets that have yet to be revealed and I can't wait to see how Charlie progresses with what I think is going on. I could be wrong because the book is twisty though.
And I could kill the authors for the ending, especially because I don't have book two yet. Give it to me!!!
Want to read
April 28, 2019Freebie 04/28/2019
September 30, 2021
The first book in a kingdom adventure series set in a fictional kingdom somewhat inspired by Scotland. It is an arranged marriage story, except that the groom is kidnapped on the morning of the wedding and the bride sets out with the groom's brother to rescue him.
I liked that all of them were friends growing up. It is an angle to the arranged marriage story I've rarely seen. Since Oliver isn't in the book hardly at all, it is hard to know if he or Logan is the one I should be shipping with the princess.
This one does start off a little slower than I was expecting, but I've heard many people rave about this series, so I'm sure it picks up in later books.
The audiobook version was well done, and I can't wait to listen to the rest of the series!
I liked that all of them were friends growing up. It is an angle to the arranged marriage story I've rarely seen. Since Oliver isn't in the book hardly at all, it is hard to know if he or Logan is the one I should be shipping with the princess.
This one does start off a little slower than I was expecting, but I've heard many people rave about this series, so I'm sure it picks up in later books.
The audiobook version was well done, and I can't wait to listen to the rest of the series!
June 29, 2022
This book was definitely a little immature for me but I still found some enjoyment out of it.
There wasn’t much world building, or explanations of much. Really it was just a story about a princess who’s fiancé was kidnapped and she goes on a quest with his older brother to find him. All she does in the book is cry about how much she misses him (understandable) while it’s foreshadowed that he’s an absolute dick and slept with a bunch of other women lol
…… still reading the next one though. I have bets that the man is a DICK
There wasn’t much world building, or explanations of much. Really it was just a story about a princess who’s fiancé was kidnapped and she goes on a quest with his older brother to find him. All she does in the book is cry about how much she misses him (understandable) while it’s foreshadowed that he’s an absolute dick and slept with a bunch of other women lol
…… still reading the next one though. I have bets that the man is a DICK
December 25, 2018
3.5/4 stars
I absolutely loved the characters in this book, especially Charlotte, who really grew SO much. She is definitely not the same young woman as she was in the beginning and think she is much stronger in a I-am-going-to-soon-kick-your-butt. The way she also sometimes handled things emotionally was totally relatable and really hope good things are in store for her.
The overall story was very compelling and greatly enjoyed seeing flashbacks and memories of the friendships that were formed. Logan is probably one of my favorite side characters, but there are some incidents with Isla that are hilarious! It was also great having a positive sibling relationship. (However, I totally want more Logan! Haha!)
There were a few places I felt were a little repetitive that pulled me out of the story slightly, but I'm nervously excited to read more and see what happens next! Though I think a few things are about to "go down," I think Charlotte will continue to grow into a strong upcoming queen (and hopefully her friends beside her).
EAGERLY looking forward to book two!
*(Many thanks to the authors for providing me an ARC. I was not required to write a review or positive one. All thoughts expressed are my own.)*
I absolutely loved the characters in this book, especially Charlotte, who really grew SO much. She is definitely not the same young woman as she was in the beginning and think she is much stronger in a I-am-going-to-soon-kick-your-butt. The way she also sometimes handled things emotionally was totally relatable and really hope good things are in store for her.
The overall story was very compelling and greatly enjoyed seeing flashbacks and memories of the friendships that were formed. Logan is probably one of my favorite side characters, but there are some incidents with Isla that are hilarious! It was also great having a positive sibling relationship. (However, I totally want more Logan! Haha!)
There were a few places I felt were a little repetitive that pulled me out of the story slightly, but I'm nervously excited to read more and see what happens next! Though I think a few things are about to "go down," I think Charlotte will continue to grow into a strong upcoming queen (and hopefully her friends beside her).
EAGERLY looking forward to book two!
*(Many thanks to the authors for providing me an ARC. I was not required to write a review or positive one. All thoughts expressed are my own.)*
September 18, 2020
What could possibly go wrong when a pampered princess decides to take part in a mission to rescue her betrothed who has been kidnapped by outlaw revolutionaries? Princess Charlotte, or Charlie, sets out with her friend Isla to follow the armed troops sent to locate and return the missing Prince Oliver so they can marry and join their kingdoms. The alternative is the continuance of a useless war.
When Charlie and Isla are discovered among the soldiers, her brother intends to send them back to the palace. But Charlie manages to slip away and follow Oliver’s brother Logan and his troops when they set off to continues the pursuit. When they are separated from the main force and end up on their own, Logan must take charge of keeping Charlie safe while continuing to search for the missing Prince.
The story is predictable, with Logan attempting to keep the wayward Princess out of harm’s way and Charlie being headstrong and ill-equipped to handle the hardships of the open road. This is the first in a trilogy, and I’m not sure I will pursue it to the end. Not a bad read, just not a challenging plot.
When Charlie and Isla are discovered among the soldiers, her brother intends to send them back to the palace. But Charlie manages to slip away and follow Oliver’s brother Logan and his troops when they set off to continues the pursuit. When they are separated from the main force and end up on their own, Logan must take charge of keeping Charlie safe while continuing to search for the missing Prince.
The story is predictable, with Logan attempting to keep the wayward Princess out of harm’s way and Charlie being headstrong and ill-equipped to handle the hardships of the open road. This is the first in a trilogy, and I’m not sure I will pursue it to the end. Not a bad read, just not a challenging plot.
November 5, 2022
What really happens when a Princess goes adventuring
You know those princesses who ride off to the rescue? This is what really happens. Also, I know how I want the romance to go.
Anyway, fabulous fantasy, with a terrific heroine.
Definitely recommended.
You know those princesses who ride off to the rescue? This is what really happens. Also, I know how I want the romance to go.
Anyway, fabulous fantasy, with a terrific heroine.
Definitely recommended.
June 26, 2020
This book was quick, but still enjoyable. It was pretty character driven, like most books that take place on a journey to a destination, but the plot moved fast enough that it never got boring. I loved the fact that most of our characters were redheads, as a redhead, I like seeing them in books
Worldbuilding
I do wish the Worldbuilding would have been a bit better, but this book is pretty short so it's excusable. I wish we would've gotten some background on the rivalry between the two kingdoms, and some information on the folklore. It would've also been interesting to see a bit more of how her parents ruled and if they were aware of how much their people were suffering.
Characters
This was the thing that dropped the book to four stars. Our main character, Charlie, made some stupid decisions, and they weren't even believable. We also didn't get to see any of her and Oli's relationship before he was kidnapped, so her quest wasn't as compelling. I wish we could've gotten a bit more on her friends character, I liked her, and her flirtations with Fin were cute. I liked Logan, but Charlie was super irritating, with her charging into every battle without planning or knowingly how to fight.
I do feel like the romance in this will be changing from Charlie/Oli to Charlie/Logan in the next book, but I'm completely fine with that. I was shipping them together since they started the journey, and since we don't see much of the main couple, they're more compelling. I just hope that the next book isn't a drawn out love triangle.
Overall
This was good, it definitely wasn't great, but it was a quick and enjoyable read. The author employs a tell not show style, which makes some of the imagery and characters hard to imagine, but it may get better in the next book. Some of the accents were super hard to read, and there are some words I never could figure out. Because it's a shorter book, the journey doesn't feel super long and boring, so that was a point in this books favor. I'll definitely be reading the next book, I liked the characters well enough.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
Worldbuilding
I do wish the Worldbuilding would have been a bit better, but this book is pretty short so it's excusable. I wish we would've gotten some background on the rivalry between the two kingdoms, and some information on the folklore. It would've also been interesting to see a bit more of how her parents ruled and if they were aware of how much their people were suffering.
Characters
This was the thing that dropped the book to four stars. Our main character, Charlie, made some stupid decisions, and they weren't even believable. We also didn't get to see any of her and Oli's relationship before he was kidnapped, so her quest wasn't as compelling. I wish we could've gotten a bit more on her friends character, I liked her, and her flirtations with Fin were cute. I liked Logan, but Charlie was super irritating, with her charging into every battle without planning or knowingly how to fight.
I do feel like the romance in this will be changing from Charlie/Oli to Charlie/Logan in the next book, but I'm completely fine with that. I was shipping them together since they started the journey, and since we don't see much of the main couple, they're more compelling. I just hope that the next book isn't a drawn out love triangle.
Overall
This was good, it definitely wasn't great, but it was a quick and enjoyable read. The author employs a tell not show style, which makes some of the imagery and characters hard to imagine, but it may get better in the next book. Some of the accents were super hard to read, and there are some words I never could figure out. Because it's a shorter book, the journey doesn't feel super long and boring, so that was a point in this books favor. I'll definitely be reading the next book, I liked the characters well enough.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
October 10, 2022
The kingdoms of H’Ria and Luan have been at war for decades. That was going to end with the marriage of Charlie and Oliver uniting the kingdoms. But Oliver is taken by Aramach rebels.
Can I truly do this? Fifteen years of training to rule as future Queen told me the answer was no. That I should stay in the castle where I was safe, helping to ease the tensions of our people with my mere presence. That I had no business gallivanting off to do a man’s work.
But there was another part of me, smaller, buried – but no less real – saying, If not me, then who?
My first impression of Charlie is that she is quite stupid when it comes to Oliver. She endangers herself and others a few times just to help rescue Oliver. I understand why she delivered a message to her brother, but after that, she could have gone back home. She didn’t have to continue on so she didn’t feel useless. She could have been useful back at the castle.
Due to this, I wasn’t a big fan of Charlie. She was dense when it came to Logan because all she ever really cared about was Oliver. But I think she has potential. We were finally getting to the good stuff at the end but then a cliffhanger. Good thing I have all the books in the series.
Can I truly do this? Fifteen years of training to rule as future Queen told me the answer was no. That I should stay in the castle where I was safe, helping to ease the tensions of our people with my mere presence. That I had no business gallivanting off to do a man’s work.
But there was another part of me, smaller, buried – but no less real – saying, If not me, then who?
My first impression of Charlie is that she is quite stupid when it comes to Oliver. She endangers herself and others a few times just to help rescue Oliver. I understand why she delivered a message to her brother, but after that, she could have gone back home. She didn’t have to continue on so she didn’t feel useless. She could have been useful back at the castle.
Due to this, I wasn’t a big fan of Charlie. She was dense when it came to Logan because all she ever really cared about was Oliver. But I think she has potential. We were finally getting to the good stuff at the end but then a cliffhanger. Good thing I have all the books in the series.
April 30, 2022
This series and the next series have a lot of similarities. It is a good thing the story line is very different or I would have put this down. The writing keeps me reading. I just like the style and the characters just pull me in too. I like the leading lady in this one a little more then I liked her daughter in the next series. I read The Lochlann Feuds before reading these and there is a lot of similarities in the characters and the situations they get themselves in (having to sleep in the same bed with the leading man, riding on the horse with him, going to bed with depression, going off on an adventure without telling anyone, being strong in the face of the enemy, a love triangle.) To name a few of the similarities. I am on to read the next:}
Some violence and mention of the characters making out. Some sexual inuendo. 16 and up
Some violence and mention of the characters making out. Some sexual inuendo. 16 and up
April 2, 2022
Abrupt ending, the entire book was going from one inn to another and the MC daydreaming about how much she loves her abducted fiancé. MC was annoying and useless. Story was bit bland, nothing interesting. // KU
February 6, 2022
didn't like the protagonist and the plot just fell flat for me. also, the ending was wayyyy too abrupt.
I probably won't continue with this series.
2/5 stars
I probably won't continue with this series.
2/5 stars
January 5, 2020
Hmmmm. The premise was very interesting but the reality is that one of our MCs falls flat. Charlie is an entitled brat who likes to think of herself as the best queen to be, yet refuses to understand what her friends are going through or what her people are going through. She throws herself into danger to attempt to find her lost fiance, only to become a BURDEN on literally everyone. She withholds information that leads to someone's death because she is not meant to rule and make decisions.
The accents in this novel are written poorly and are VERY difficult to read. I eventually ended up skipping ALL dialogue with an accept because of how unbearable it was. Her flashbacks with Olli add nothing to the story,except to set up the very obvious direction of the plot.
My prediction for the "twist" is that Oliver was in on it all along. Based off the conversation in the room about the rebels not being able to make a big mess, it was unrealistic that he was kidnapped. I also see that Logan and Charlie will be the end game of this series.
Side note, the author does know that it's okay to say that Charlie is overweight or fat, right? It doesn't need to be said MULTIPLE TIMES that she is "curvy" and "big breasted", or that NASTY comment to Logan that she isn't the skinny women he usually sleeps with. JUST SAY SHE IS OVERWEIGHT OR FAT, IT ISN'T A BAD THING.
I will not be continuing on with this series because while it's average, it's not a fun adventure average.
The accents in this novel are written poorly and are VERY difficult to read. I eventually ended up skipping ALL dialogue with an accept because of how unbearable it was. Her flashbacks with Olli add nothing to the story,except to set up the very obvious direction of the plot.
My prediction for the "twist" is that Oliver was in on it all along. Based off the conversation in the room about the rebels not being able to make a big mess, it was unrealistic that he was kidnapped. I also see that Logan and Charlie will be the end game of this series.
Side note, the author does know that it's okay to say that Charlie is overweight or fat, right? It doesn't need to be said MULTIPLE TIMES that she is "curvy" and "big breasted", or that NASTY comment to Logan that she isn't the skinny women he usually sleeps with. JUST SAY SHE IS OVERWEIGHT OR FAT, IT ISN'T A BAD THING.
I will not be continuing on with this series because while it's average, it's not a fun adventure average.
Want to read
October 11, 2023The cover is spp
August 13, 2022
Good gracious! What a cliffhanger! And my thoughts are swirling as I'm trying to piece things together. This is a very moving tale about a naive princess who embarks upon a rescue with her least favorite person who she used to be close to. Along the way misfortune keeps befriending her. This begins with her being one person and ending another. The oppressive wool has been striped bare and her eyes take in everything that she's never known.
There is a distinct attraction awakening rife with jealously thrown in. And I've never liked series where we see potential love interest get with someone else. But this time I get it! The heroine is consumed by thoughts of her groom, but her heart wants to pull her into another direction. I want to push her along as well.
The would be groom seemed to be a total douche canoe as the book unfolded and more of his flaws came to light. He's handsy, opinionated and not quite as charming as he believes himself to be. And I gleaned this all from Logan's surly attitude and our heroine's memories. We'll see if I fall for Logan as the series goes on... I'm pretty certain Oli is a lost cause.
Can't wait for the next book! I love this world and the characters in it keep me glued to the pages. The writing is absolutely captivating and unique. You couldn't ask for more from a historical fantasy series.
There is a distinct attraction awakening rife with jealously thrown in. And I've never liked series where we see potential love interest get with someone else. But this time I get it! The heroine is consumed by thoughts of her groom, but her heart wants to pull her into another direction. I want to push her along as well.
The would be groom seemed to be a total douche canoe as the book unfolded and more of his flaws came to light. He's handsy, opinionated and not quite as charming as he believes himself to be. And I gleaned this all from Logan's surly attitude and our heroine's memories. We'll see if I fall for Logan as the series goes on... I'm pretty certain Oli is a lost cause.
Can't wait for the next book! I love this world and the characters in it keep me glued to the pages. The writing is absolutely captivating and unique. You couldn't ask for more from a historical fantasy series.
March 22, 2020
4.5 stars!
I received an arc of this book in exchange for an honest review (I actually received the box set with all four books, but I'm going to also review them separately. Find the box set here: https://www.goodreads.com/series/2502...).
This book started out right away with an interesting storyline, but for some reason, it took me a while to truly fall into it. I started it a month ago, but I had other things I needed to prioritize, and it took me a while to come back. Once I got about a third of the way through, I was totally hooked! I almost finished the rest of the book in one sitting.
Charlie's fiance' is stolen away by rebels on the day of their wedding. She can't stand to sit back and wait for others to bring him home, so she dresses as a man and joins the hunt. Charlie's character development is well done, so I really grew to enjoy hearing this story from her perspective.
This book ends on a MAJOR cliffhanger, so I'm literally going to start the second one as soon as I press "post." If you're looking for an easy read with royalty, politics, romance, interesting banter, action, and an interesting setting, check this one out!
I received an arc of this book in exchange for an honest review (I actually received the box set with all four books, but I'm going to also review them separately. Find the box set here: https://www.goodreads.com/series/2502...).
This book started out right away with an interesting storyline, but for some reason, it took me a while to truly fall into it. I started it a month ago, but I had other things I needed to prioritize, and it took me a while to come back. Once I got about a third of the way through, I was totally hooked! I almost finished the rest of the book in one sitting.
Charlie's fiance' is stolen away by rebels on the day of their wedding. She can't stand to sit back and wait for others to bring him home, so she dresses as a man and joins the hunt. Charlie's character development is well done, so I really grew to enjoy hearing this story from her perspective.
This book ends on a MAJOR cliffhanger, so I'm literally going to start the second one as soon as I press "post." If you're looking for an easy read with royalty, politics, romance, interesting banter, action, and an interesting setting, check this one out!
October 16, 2019
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I liked this book, but I don't think I loved it. It was shorter than I thought it would be, but it managed to still tell a great story without rushing and feeling like it was missing plots of the storyline, or jumping ahead randomly. The characters were interesting, each having their own individual personalities, and I loved the relationship and development throughout.
Charlie and Logan's relationship is complicated to say the least, but in their own ways, you could see they cared for each other, but there was a lot of issues they chose not to talk about, which I really hope will happen soon. I'd like to see their relationship develop into something more than and 'I hate you because you hurt me' relationship.
While there were a couple typing errors here and there, and the unsure feeling surrounding this first book, I can say that I will be continuing onto book two and seeing where the storyline will evolve from there!
I liked this book, but I don't think I loved it. It was shorter than I thought it would be, but it managed to still tell a great story without rushing and feeling like it was missing plots of the storyline, or jumping ahead randomly. The characters were interesting, each having their own individual personalities, and I loved the relationship and development throughout.
Charlie and Logan's relationship is complicated to say the least, but in their own ways, you could see they cared for each other, but there was a lot of issues they chose not to talk about, which I really hope will happen soon. I'd like to see their relationship develop into something more than and 'I hate you because you hurt me' relationship.
While there were a couple typing errors here and there, and the unsure feeling surrounding this first book, I can say that I will be continuing onto book two and seeing where the storyline will evolve from there!
December 23, 2023
I binged this whole series over the course of about a week and a half, I think. I listened to the omnibus audiobook pretty much straight through at work.
As such, I don't honestly know where each book ended/began, so I'm going to do one review and post it for all the books. Lol.
Obviously, I really enjoyed it (or I wouldn't have devoured the whole four book series so quickly). The characters had depth (that built up over time). The world was interesting but also familiar. There was plenty of action. The forbidden/enemies-to-lovers romance was fantastic. There were a few things that were obvious/predictable for the genre, but I didn't mind. And the thieves in the forest (and the festivals and ceremonies held there) were awesome.
And the dialogue. I actually laughed a few times, so much so that I had to stop listening and go tell my husband about it.
My only gripes were...
* There was some telling rather than showing, occasionally slowing things down.
* Book three had A LOT of political stuff and dinners full of double speak. It was a decent chunk of the book, and that just isn't my thing. It definitely made that particular book slow (enough so that I actually took note of which book it was).
* At the end of the series' audiobook, the author included a bunch of chapters from Logan's POV instead of just including them at the relevant points throughout the series. It was like skipping through the story all over again, but since there were only a handful of chapters per book, it was very disjointed. It was a shame because I love multi-POV books, and having them throughout the books where they belonged would've been so much better. And for some reason, a different narrator voiced those (even though book four had chapters from Logan's POV voiced with the original narrator). That alone was jarring enough, but the secondary narrator wasn't as good with the accents.
Regardless of these few faults, I still highly recommend the books. I greatly enjoyed them.
As such, I don't honestly know where each book ended/began, so I'm going to do one review and post it for all the books. Lol.
Obviously, I really enjoyed it (or I wouldn't have devoured the whole four book series so quickly). The characters had depth (that built up over time). The world was interesting but also familiar. There was plenty of action. The forbidden/enemies-to-lovers romance was fantastic. There were a few things that were obvious/predictable for the genre, but I didn't mind. And the thieves in the forest (and the festivals and ceremonies held there) were awesome.
And the dialogue. I actually laughed a few times, so much so that I had to stop listening and go tell my husband about it.
My only gripes were...
* There was some telling rather than showing, occasionally slowing things down.
* Book three had A LOT of political stuff and dinners full of double speak. It was a decent chunk of the book, and that just isn't my thing. It definitely made that particular book slow (enough so that I actually took note of which book it was).
* At the end of the series' audiobook, the author included a bunch of chapters from Logan's POV instead of just including them at the relevant points throughout the series. It was like skipping through the story all over again, but since there were only a handful of chapters per book, it was very disjointed. It was a shame because I love multi-POV books, and having them throughout the books where they belonged would've been so much better. And for some reason, a different narrator voiced those (even though book four had chapters from Logan's POV voiced with the original narrator). That alone was jarring enough, but the secondary narrator wasn't as good with the accents.
Regardless of these few faults, I still highly recommend the books. I greatly enjoyed them.
January 1, 2024
I'm just gunna jump right into this one.... Charlie annoys the crap out of me. She's naive, and stupid, and clingy, and just.... Well a perfectly written spoiled brat of a princess. Don't get me wrong, I can't stand the character.... But that's how she was written, and whelp... That's how she comes off. So bravo I guess.
Finn is absolutely the BEST part of this book. He's the one everyone overlooks until crap hits the fan and then everyone is like "oh he can do it".
The plot was a little obvious. What the maid "overheard", the sketchy conversation with Oli's uncle at the beginning, and then the sudden disappearance. I called that Oli was a no good, double crossing, backstabbing, just wanted to get his jollys off of a duche from the beginning.
Now, my favorite part of the book: sweet baby Logan. If I could have climbed into the book and wrapped him in my arms I would have.
Finn is absolutely the BEST part of this book. He's the one everyone overlooks until crap hits the fan and then everyone is like "oh he can do it".
The plot was a little obvious. What the maid "overheard", the sketchy conversation with Oli's uncle at the beginning, and then the sudden disappearance. I called that Oli was a no good, double crossing, backstabbing, just wanted to get his jollys off of a duche from the beginning.
Now, my favorite part of the book: sweet baby Logan. If I could have climbed into the book and wrapped him in my arms I would have.
May 1, 2019
I really enjoyed this story with a girl trying to rescue the boy.
Charlie (Charlene)
I loved that she wasn't a weak female. She is headstrong and fierce and I loved her character.
Logan
I absolutely loved this character. His brother (the one they are trying to rescue) is kidnapped so the reader doesn't get to really know him. Logan, however, we do and I think he is perfect for the heroine but she is stuck on his brother for some reason. My hope is that she falls for Logan in a future book. That may cause some issues since she is a princess but I do think they would be perfect for each other.
Overall
This book was an easy read with likeable characters. I will probably read more of this series at some point but I am not in a hurry.
Charlie (Charlene)
I loved that she wasn't a weak female. She is headstrong and fierce and I loved her character.
Logan
I absolutely loved this character. His brother (the one they are trying to rescue) is kidnapped so the reader doesn't get to really know him. Logan, however, we do and I think he is perfect for the heroine but she is stuck on his brother for some reason. My hope is that she falls for Logan in a future book. That may cause some issues since she is a princess but I do think they would be perfect for each other.
Overall
This book was an easy read with likeable characters. I will probably read more of this series at some point but I am not in a hurry.
February 4, 2020
Winter's Captive is a cute ya adventure about a princess going on a dangerous journey to find her kidnapped fiance. She doesn't exactly know what she's doing which adds to the fun of the story. It has mystery, adventure and women dressing up as men. Downsides. the story is a little weak on world-building but thats not all that uncommon for the first book in a series.
dnf
August 3, 2021DNF @ Chapter 4
This wasn't necessarily terrible, the writing style was just very choppy and immature, and it wasn't for me (especially since I was expecting new adult/upper ya, and both the writing style and the characters came across as immature to me)
This wasn't necessarily terrible, the writing style was just very choppy and immature, and it wasn't for me (especially since I was expecting new adult/upper ya, and both the writing style and the characters came across as immature to me)
September 10, 2022
***3.25 stars***
August 24, 2023
Yeah... no.
September 16, 2023
No big complaints it’s just that nothing happened in this book lol
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