Dark Rain

The Anrodnes Chronicles #1

by J.C. Owens

Alone behind the mask, only his Chosen could touch him.

Raine held no hope for his future. Youngest in a line of brutal, warlike brothers, he is judged to be weak and worthy only to be sold off for political gain. Now the worst of his brothers is taking him to the heart of the empire that has conquered their homeland. Taldan, the Imperial Heir of Anrodnes, is holding a traditional choosing of a companion, a Chosen, for when he ascends to become emperor. Forced into the competition for the title, Raine finds himself in a different world, one of culture and science, so different than his cruel home. Even though he feels immediate attraction to the cold, logical, and powerful Taldan, Raine knows he has no hope of winning a place at the prince's side. How can he compete against the other candidates or compare to Hredeen, the mysterious leader of the imperial harem, a gorgeous man of otherworldly grace who is far more than he seems? But if Raine fails to win Taldan's heart, his brother has a dreadful punishment waiting, one he's eager to inflict.

Prince Taldan views the ceremony of the Chosen as nothing more than an annoyance. He will ascend to emperor, don the metal mask, and be granted the powerful magic of his ancestors. After that, he can finally return to his studies and experiments to better the lives of his people. He sets his younger brother and best friend to helping sort through the mass of candidates for his Chosen, seeing the ceremony as a foolish tradition to endure. But when chance leads to him saving a young man named Raine from the violence of Raine's cruel brother, events are set in motion that will rock the empire to its foundations. Taldan knows the emperor must be emotionless and logical, even cold, but Raine stirs feelings and heat in him that he is not prepared for. Now there are ominous rumors of war on the horizon and the threat of betrayals and assassins in the court, and Taldan discovers Raine is right in the middle of it all...


The first book of a new epic M/M fantasy romance trilogy from J. C. Owens!

Genres: Fantasy, M M Romance, Abuse, Magic, Romance, M M Fantasy, Gay

233 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 19, 2018

About the author

Also known as J.C. McGuire.

J.C Owens lives in small town, rural Alberta and is a self confessed writing-a-holic. In the absence of help for this affliction…

I do indeed love to write and have now completed thirty published stories, along with over twenty books sitting idle in my computer, waiting… I love the genre of male/male stories and conflict in what a person thinks they want, versus what they truly need to become themselves. I think any writing that shows the beauty of men loving men is worthwhile.

I love to hear from my readers and always appreciate suggestions and comments for future books. Sharing a love of reading and good, hot sensuality between men is always a cause for celebration!

Reviews

[Elise ✘ a.k.a Ryder's Pet ✘ · Rating 4 out of 5]

⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱*Color Me Surprised*⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱

What an interesting book! I seriously enjoyed it! The characters were quite interesting, the story unique in a way and it was well written. I did, however, struggle a bit with the love a certain person has for another before the main character entered the picture; Taldan loving Hredeen and visa versa didn't quite work for me as I loved Raine so much and want to see Taldan loving him instead. This is not to say that I didn't love Hredeen, because I did, and I loved the love between him and Taldan, but where would that leave Raine who deserves nothing but the best? This worried me from the moment I met this character and saw how they felt for each other and I was not wrong to worry. How this will effect the story in the next books, is beyond me, but I am concerned. A lot. But, I read the book in one go and I couldn't stop until I was finished.

Raine was hauled to his feet, almost hanging in the two guards’ grips. He did not fight. He said nothing. He had learned the futility of resistance all too well in the years of his brother’s rule.
His brother was the High Lord of Odenar. Raine was the youngest son of the family in their far-off homeland. Since the war twenty-two years ago, Odenar was only a province of the Anrodnes Empire. Parsul had brought Raine to enter him in the Choosing, a rare event where the imperial heir selected his bondmate before he donned the imposing metal mask of the high lord emperor. Raine wanted no part of it. Like there was a choice for him. He had long ago given up hope of escaping his brother. Why dream of something impossible?
He cast one look over his shoulder at the looming cliffs ahead before they passed below decks.

The book centers around the youngest in a line of brutal, warlike brothers (3 older brothers), Lord Raine Yoldis (19) is sold for political gain by his oldest and cruelest brother. He is forced to join a competition that is being held by Taldan Anrodnes (29?), the Imperial Heir of Anrodnes, a holding of a traditional choosing of a companion, a Chosen; a bondmate, for when he ascends to become emperor. Raine is so different for everyone else, he's so... innocent and naive, that Taldan, his brother and his closest friend cannot decided if it's an act or not. Overall, I'm really surprised at how much I enjoyed this book and the story. I hate that I now have to wait for the other two books in the series as it's a trilogy. But luckily, the author has already written book two and is working on book three. Let's hope they get published soon! What a great start of the year! Recommended!

He flushed painfully, could not meet his liaison’s eyes. “I am the youngest son. There are four of us, and there is no need for me. If my brother can use me to gain control—”
He cut the words off. It would not do for those of Anrodnes and the imperial court to realize that Odenar had intentions of invading Bhantan, its much smaller and peaceful neighbor. Raine was quite sure that the emperor would not approve of a military maneuver by one of the provinces against a foreign land that was undertaken without his approval. Raine was here to get that approval from the imperial heir, one way or another.

Quotes From Book:

Palace it might presently be, but its history as a stronghold was evident in the vast walls and dark stone towers. Built into the mountainside that sloped down to the harbor, it seemed created from the very cliff itself, strong and impregnable. As though a mighty divine hand had shaped it. A suitable home for the High Lord Emperor and the Imperial Court of the Anrodnes Empire.

There were several depictions of an armored man surrounded by luminous blue light, the legendary “magic” of the emperors.
Raine’s people held no such magic, and having never encountered such a thing, he was somewhat skeptical of the truth of the matter. He was extremely careful to keep that disbelief to himself. Odenar, a conquered country, was beholden to the Anrodnes Empire for its very existence. Those who showed the smallest resistance or rebellion found themselves hunted by the Shadows, the emperor’s ever-loyal bodyguards. More than one rebellious country had discovered the Anrodnes Empire’s wrath, and the others learned swiftly what was and was not accepted. Although Odenar was an imperial territory far from the capital city, and they had not felt the weight of the empire’s control for many years.

Taldan had decided to abide by this ludicrous custom of choosing a bondmate before he received the magic of the Illumitae, since it was expected, and in the end, it would have no effect on him. Nothing ever did. As the second prince, Zaran had his role to play in this farce, and for his beloved brother, he would gladly waste his time to ensure that the best candidate was chosen. Once that distasteful task was complete, Zaran could return to all that he counted as important, while Taldan, the heir, soon to ascend the throne upon their father’s retirement, could immerse himself in his studies, his gathering of knowledge.
That was his brother’s power.

His goal (Taldan) was for the Anrodnes Empire to be the pinnacle of civilization, a gem among all countries, an example of what could be reached with the proper leadership and control and learning.
He could not understand the foolishness of those lands that governed themselves by the voice of the people. He had never seen such a group that voted with anything but their own ego and therefore led to an unwieldy, time-wasting system that weakened the country as a whole.

His focus was going to be quite different than his father’s. He held no intention of adding more lands to the empire, as had been his father’s goal when he’d first taken the throne. In the last dozen or so years, the empire had ceased expanding its borders and worked on consolidating its gains and reducing its military expenditures.
Instead of expansion, Taldan wanted to improve things within the empire itself. Content people did not start rebellions. If their circumstances were so much better than the neighboring countries, then there was no reason for such a thing.

“Well then, it is completely evident that you have never dealt with those who have been abused.” Taldan reached for two more books, pleased at the space it created upon his desk.
“Yes, I agree he’s a victim of abuse…”
Taldan turned on his heel to face him, holding a hand up to halt Naral’s words.
“No. I do not approve the use of the word ‘victim.’ It creates a mindset in both abuser and abused that is not at all healthy or correct. Those who have gone through such atrocities need to understand that they are strong, that there is a path past what was done to them. They must know that it is always possible for the abuser to control their actions. Always. No matter what that abuser might use as an excuse, particularly when they attempt to attach the blame to those they have harmed. Abusing is a choice.”

Other Characters:
→ Parsul Yoldis, the oldest and cruelest brother of Raine and the High Lord of Odenar, vassal to the empire. ‘Whereas Raine held the fine features of his late mother, with curly black hair and green eyes, Parsul was all their father, brutish, thick-boned and broad-shouldered, with a square-jawed face, thinning brown hair and dark, malicious eyes.’
→ Zaran (5 years younger than Taldan), the Second Prince and Taldan's little brother. He was Taldan’s right hand, his rock.
→ Lord Naral, the head of palace security and the Imperial Heir Taldan's closest friend.
→ Demarin, the Emperor and father to Taldan and Zaran. He wears a metal mask (each Emperor will do this as Taldan’s grandfather found this the best way to rule and conquer; ‘Their father, the emperor, hidden behind the metal mask that denoted his divinity, showed nothing. It could not be discerned what he was thinking, feeling. By strict tradition, the emperor was kept separate from much of the imperial court, but perhaps now that he was stepping aside for Taldan to take his place, things would change.’). Demarin's Chosen, Sarnwa.
→ Isnay Mretom, a courtier (of the Seneschal?). Becomes Raine's individual liaisons; he will indicate where he may go and where is forbidden. He's also Naral's cousin and part of the diplomatic corp; the head diplomat.
→ The Shadows, the highly trained bodyguards who watched over the emperor and the imperial prince. They are the elite protectors of the emperor and his family. Only the best, the most amazing warriors were chosen for the emperor himself.
→ Hredeen, Taldan favorite concubine at the royal harem. He's also the head of the harem. He's a powerful empathy. Hredeen Leesian, sixth-level assassin of the War Guild.
→ Naitlien, one of the newer harem occupants.
→ Nie and Weis, Taldan's Shadows.
→ Pastan, a diplomat, a close friend of Isnay's.
→ General Rhodnar, Naral's father. He was the closest confidante of Emperor Demarin, having fought beside him when Demarin had been the imperial prince. They had formed a lasting accord that Naral personally thought seemed more like an unbreakable friendship, though Demarin would certainly never vocalize that thought, perhaps couldn’t even understand the concept.
→ Gratolin, Naral's second in command.
→ The final six candidates are as follows: Prince Rees Wesparin from the Royal House of Sarna. Malar Ostan, bard of Nartisa. Laen Parlant, heir to the Parlant shipping dynasty, from Taarmun. Antan Gertem, artist of Carlenvae. Valsen Maltes, mage elect of Haes. Lord Raine Yoldis of Odenar. Antan gets chosen but gets killed by Valsen and Raine becomes the chosen at the very end of the book.

Parsul’s hand was swift, Raine’s throat in his grip with crushing force. “It better be, you—”
“What, precisely, is going on here?”
Parsul froze, releasing his grip, then slowly swiveled in his crouch, looking up—and up—to a stern, unsmiling, extremely cold visage.
The man was extraordinarily tall, lean bodied with powerful shoulders. His face was slender, almost sharp, his short white hair and piercing blue eyes marking his bloodline clearly. The strength of his presence was almost overwhelming.
There was no doubt who this was.

Quick basic facts:
Genre: - (Adult?) Fantasy Romance (M/M).
Series: - Series, Book One.
Love triangle? - No.
Cheating? - No.
HEA? - No.
Favorite character? - Raine Yoldis.
Would I read more by this author/or of series? - Yes.
Would I recommend this book/series? -Yes.
Will I read this again in the future? - Probably.
New Rating - 4 stars.

[Rina Pride · Rating 3 out of 5]

Acabei gostando mais do que realmente pensei que gostaria. É uma história intrigante, Raine é um personagem simples e ao mesmo tempo muito interessante. Grande parte de ter gostado do livro foi por causa de Raine e sua personalidade, fiquei com desejo de acompanhar sua jornada. Não estou muito confiante desse romance dele com o Taldan, acho que Raine merece alguém que possa dar 100% de seu coração, Taldan têm uma "relação" com seu concubino que é tipo um terapeuta sexual ( ao qual era mais que aparentava) 😅 Detesto triângulo amoroso, mesmo assim quero saber onde a jornada de Raine vai levá-lo.

[Keoko · Rating 1 out of 5]

That was awful. Anyone looking to read this should be aware that this is not a romance. If anything the romance should have been between Taldan and Hredeen. Raine was basically an afterthought. He wasn't even a second choice, but a third choice out of necessity. It wasn't even until the end of the book that the author thought 'oh I better write in some feelings from Taldan to Raine.' Taldan basically just settled for Raine. Even the sex (at the end of the book) was short and out of place. And even more, the last word Taldan says is "Hredeen." And let's not mention Taldan having sex with Hredeen throughout the entire book. That was hot garbage.

[JenMcJ · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars. This is off to a great start. It has a lot of the elements most of these books have (great world building, abused MC, hurt/comfort rescue, magic, inter political issues/traditions, slow burn, etc) but it seems fresher, cleaner even as the cast of characters are much more wide ranging and nuanced. If it wasn't for the blurb I would have wondered who Raine was meant for and in some respects I still do, because of the interplay between the cast of characters and because **CLIFFHANGER** ending. I dislike the unexpected ending and that it ended at like 92% but I love that I have unresolved feelings over the interpersonal relationships facing the characters in this book. I LOVE that it isn't cut and dried between Raine and Taldan. Give me more like this!

For what it's worth, the 2 star review on Amazon is fair, but it's short sighted since this is a trilogy. Had this been just a one book story it wouldn't even be rate-able as a romance. But this isn't instalove (thank you!) and political shit is complicated especially when mixed with tradition and family and when you add in the heart well.... it's even more complicated....

Book two is due in Feb. Very much looking forward to the next one.

Like past books by JC Owens, women are nowhere to be found in this book, they play no role in anything but birthing. It's always a little weird but it's not unexpected for this author. For m/m fantasy, it's not that uncommon really.

[Midnight · Rating 1 out of 5]

Interesting premise and world building but...DNF at 42% because I was growing increasingly frustrated with most of the characters and relationships. Raine is an interesting character with a lot of room for growth and development, but as much as I would love to see him bloom, I just can't stand to read about the rest of main characters and their escapades. Especially Hrdeen or rather whoredeen, as he is basically the personal whore of the not only head of guard, second prince but also the imperial prince and who knows how many others and throughout the book he just goes from one dick to the other and it's just gross. Especially considering that all three are super close friends and are basically sharing around this one guy. I mean, couldn't they, as such important men and with an access to a huge harem no less, at least get their own concubine each or what. Another thing, the imperial prince is portrayed as this amazing, intelligent man with a modern outlook yada yada, then he still keeps and uses the harem ???? Okaaay. The more I read the more I wished Raine would just escape and begin and new life and find someone who would actually love him and not some detached fool who didn't even want him and pines for some free for all used up harem boy. There was no romance in the book and apparently it also ends on a cliffhanger. Hard pass.

[Robin L · Rating 1 out of 5]

40% way in and I’m rooting for Isnay and Raine to get together.

Update: Just finished. Fuck this book. NOT a romance!

[Rosebud · Rating 4 out of 5]

The time has come for Taldan, Imperial Heir of Anrodnes, to become Emperor as his father has decided to step down. First though Taldan must acquire a Chosen, a bondmate who will share the weight of the mystical magic he will receive during his coronation.

Uncaring of who this bondmate will be, Taldan delegates his brother, Prince Zaran, and closest friend Naral, head of palace security, to narrow the field of twenty four potentials to a final six. Taldan will then choose one of the six to be his Chosen, uncaring of their identity as he doesn't plan to have anything to do with whoever it is after his coronation obligations are fulfilled.

Rain represents his brother's kingdom Odenar as their candidate to being Talden's Chosen knowing that if he fails to catch the Imperial Prince's eye, he will suffer the wrath of his brother, condemned to live out his days in the most horrific of ways.

Naive and lacking social the skills needed to compete for the Prince's attention, Rain takes the opportunity to enrich his inquisitive nature and learn all he can about the historical achievements his hero Prince Taldan has been instrumental in advancing. Some feel his need for knowledge is a ploy as everyone knows Taldan's love of books, knowledge, and progressing medical technology.

Regardless, outside forces are at play in an attempt to influence the future of the kingdom and Talden's choice.

* * * *

Alternate universe fantasy story that pulls in elements of abuse, political intrigue, romance, mystery, suspense, and epic fantasy action adventure. All within a m/m romance format. Not for the faint of heart, there are dark elements that may serve as triggers for those sensitive to violence and sexual abuse.

It was difficult to get into this story initially as the author featured multiple characters who COULD be seen as main characters with the premise that this story COULD be a core couple relationship ... or .. variation of menage or rebound relationship romance. I'll leave it to any potential reader to weed out in which direction the author went (though I realize anyone could pick up that info by looking at other reviews) as I don't like to spoil the overall reading experience if I can.

The secondary characters added value to the world building and story plot though they came across as one dimensional for me. Regardless, there is a mystery element throughout the story that challenges the reader to solve without knowing what the actual mystery is. Confused? Good. Then I've done my job as the mystery element is so understated in the story that it's hard to define but does serve an important role to the overall story.

One observation is that the romance between the main characters are more a subplot sort of thing though the erotica scenes themselves are frequent. For the man on man action lovers, there's more than enough action to whet your whistle. For the romantics, sorry, minimal flowers and chocolate type scenes to sigh over.

Though I appreciated and enjoyed the overall reading experience, I wish I would have heard about this series after a couple installments as this story does end in a cliffy. One that is going to drive me nuts until I can get my hands on the next installment which I think is set for a Feb/2019 release.

New to me author who doesn't shy away from hot man on man adult romance with erotica scenes that are toe curling, ice seeking good. While there were portions of this story that dragged, overall a great start first in stories epic fantasy genre book that I enjoyed.

[J1B · Rating 3 out of 5]

In true "J C Owensian" fashion, this novel gives us one battered-but-surviving main character and one stoic but increasingly warm main character. It's a familiar trope in MM, but here it doesn't quite work (for me!). I empathized with Raine, I liked him and understood his motivations, but I really wanted to see more growth in the character. At the end, I wanted a more assertive character who would never settle for second choice. Someone who would have trusted the instincts he's relied on to survive his entire life when they told him that he was "meant" to be the chosen. The reveal of the painter character's surviving lover at the end was a predictable strand that the Raine I wanted would have used if not to boost his own chances at being chosen then to at least prevent the artist or the heir from entering a toxic relationship. And someone who would have fought harder to clear his name, or, you know, at all.

Also be aware that this is essentially MMM+ (or "main-characters-have-multiple-sexual-relationships"). The situation surrounding Hredeen left me feeling slightly disgusted. The book mentions that Raine's home province is "prudish," if the nonchalant libertine attitudes that we're presented with in the capital are the alternative, then prudish is certainly preferable.

Now here's something I don't have to say very often in MM: Where were the women? Like all gay men, I have no problem with homosexual relationships being centered (for once!), but it's a universal fact that heterosexual relationships are the norm, so why didn't we see more straight couples? The Anrodnes' social norms surrounding sexual orientation were never quite spelled out as far as I can tell, and if your ruling family is going to engage in strict homosexuality, you kinda have to explain that. At first I thought this might be mpreg, but no, a few mothers/women came up in passing reference, and never 'on screen.' Maybe I missed it, but if your society is mostly men tell (show) us why, if MM couples are the standard tell (show) us why! I cannot believe I'm saying this, but I think this novel had too FEW heterosexual elements (shudder).

[Sabrina · Rating 1 out of 5]

This was just....awful. If you’re expecting even just a drop of romance, walk away now and don’t even start reading this. The prince was blinded and forever in LOVE with his favorite concubine out of his whole harem and Raine was an absolute afterthought right at the very end of the book. The prince even bonded with another guy (albeit for a few seconds before the author realized “OOPS lmao this is a book about Raine and the prince lol better fix this real quick but not TOO much. Let’s just shove Raine somehow since he’s here. Might as well use him”). The prince had NO love whatsoever for the poor guy, he just feels lust and curiosity. That’s all.

Hell, the last word the prince says is the name of his concubine even after he bonded with Raine and wishing he could be with him. I feel so bad for Raine. He is such a sweet, INTELLIGENT character that was put aside I think over 80% of the book to make way for romantic scenes between the concubine and the emperor. Why dint the author just made this book about them? What was the point of Raine then?? This is stupid. I feel like I was just lied to. For a moment there, I even thought it was going to be a threesome which, honestly, would have been better than what we got.

Raine had more chemistry with his aide than he had with the prince. I just wanted him to fulfill his wish fo go to college and be independent.

I wanted to give this 2 stars because the base of the plot was interesting but it was a mess. Everything was left in the air (I know its a trilogy(??) but the author dint tied up ANYTHING but the bonding...and even that was a mess) and the fact that it ended on a cliffhanger and the author dint state it before??? Yeah, no. Big no. They might as well tag this as “no romance” while they are at it.

[Kathleen · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars

A very nice start to JC Owens' newest series. I liken it to Megan Derr's Tournament of Losers, but not quite as intriguing. In desperate need of more world building but most of the primary characters were fairly well drawn. A few clumsy words I actually had to look up. But still, I might read the next one.

[⚣Michaelle⚣ · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Stars

...actually it was closer to 3.8 but I don't round up anymore and I couldn't justify a 3 star rounding down. Because, color me surprised, I really liked the story, the setting, the world-building. I especially liked being kept on edge over whether Raine/Taldan is romance endgame...and still, sort of, even with that ending, not really knowing for sure.

And I'mma need Book 2 ASAP, author. The intrigue is killing me! 'K? K.

[Macky · Rating 5 out of 5]

** Five star plus! **

[Qin · Rating 2 out of 5]

Plain boring with a strong, false ring to the entire story that I found impossible to shake. Things time and again occur without being foreshadowed or even made logical-sounding, which is an obvious abuse of the author's God complex ('behold, I do what I want with my creative process and my characters'); since there are two more books scheduled to appear, it would seem that the prolegomena to the tale would be contained within this one, yet they do not, mostly because Dark Rain, while it is very slow-moving and lavish, spends far too little time actually laying the groundwork for this rather complicated universe. Furthermore, between the curiously stilted writing that attempts, and fails, at striking a heroic note; the less-than-stellar storytelling (nothing is ever gained, Mrs Owens, by having too many different POVs unless they are sharply distinctive, which was not the case here but for Raine); unlikable cast showcasing nigh fabricated personality (High Prince Taldan in particular is a robot whose motivations could be printed on a thumbnail; his younger brother Zaran hardly fares any better, being little more than a precocious, vainglorious busybody; and so on and so forth with all of the Imperial courtiers); the needlessly convoluted thicket of political intrigue which suffers from the very start from the haphazard, nay: slovenly world building (info dumps on who is who are the norm; the observance of age-worn tradition is the only reason ever stated for the entire gamut of the numerous and laughable court protocols and patterns of interpersonal behaviors on display; the need for a Consort to the High Prince before his crowning remains as nebulous as the iron mask worn by the new Emperor; and so on and so forth); and finally the most harebrained sharing of sex between the supposedly impassive brothers and their rampant, male cortesan that takes place for most of this book, I lost count of the half-baked or preposterous issues between these covers. The conspicuous mysogny the story bristles with deeply bothered me too. No more words shall I waste on this frigidly uninventive high fantasy that fails in spectacular fashion at being the launching vehicle of a trilogy.

[Alex Alden · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked the story, but the writing fell short. There were way too many POV characters, and there was a lot of exposition, so I ended up skimming big chunks of the book.

But the story was very interesting; it has a lot of promise. I just wish the writing was tighter.

As a side note (because it almost turned me off reading this), there wasn't a cliffhanger ending as one of the other reviewers mentioned. It ends like a normal book in a series: there were unresolved issues, but there was nothing I would classify as "cliffhanger".

[Yvonne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fine start to a new fantasy series, the world building could have been better (the assassins guild seems a pretty major plot piece to suddenly just crop up towards the end) but the characters were fairly well drawn (although there were no female characters).

[Claudia · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a pleasant surprise for me. I had this book on my TBR for ages and never started it.
But I am so glad I finally did.

Be aware, there is no real romance in this book but the characters are really amazing.
Can't wait to read more ... thank god the next book is already on my kindle

[Jenna ✨DNF Queen✨Here, Sometimes... · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars... ending was better than I expected, good enough I’ll be looking for part 2 which I don’t always bother with

[Marsha Spence · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent!!!

[VVivacious · Rating 4 out of 5]

I want to scream and shout at this book. This book had me so frustrated that I picked up the second book immediately after and have finished 65% of that as well as I write this review, so my review might be slightly biased.

This story is of a fantastical world that is truly engrossing and I really liked how the world unfolds before our eyes and how the author introduces it to us because it created a lot of intrigue. Also, there is a layer of hypocrisy that is visible in the veneer of this world of the Empire of Anrodnes, an empire created with blood but now striving to be peaceful. I liked how the plot grounds itself in the politics of the empire and I liked the direction of it for the most.

This story is told from multiple POVs but all the characters are focused on the Choosing and what it entails so it creates a cohesive storyline that is easy to follow, this is important because this is what made the story engaging even with the shifting POVs.

Our main character is Raine and we follow his journey as one of the individuals chosen for the Choosing. Raine arrives at the palace to further the political ambitions of his brother which he considers to be extremely foolhardy but he is prevented from acting on the same under his brother's cruel shadow. But, Raine is so guileless that he mystifies everyone at the royal court and captures the attention of everyone even the Imperial Heir, Taldan.

Taldan is an intriguing character. He is definitely a character that is still developing, the potential in him is clear to see but in what direction it takes him is as yet unknown especially given the challenges he is to face.

Zaran, Naral and Isnays are secondary characters that are not very well fleshed out but serve to further the plot and provide different perspectives on the drama unfolding at the palace.

Hredeen is the biggest complication of a character I have ever seen. I really have no idea how I feel about him.

So, let's get down to it I picked up this book expecting some sort of romance especially since the blurb focuses on two POV characters so this book was very surprising but nonetheless refreshing and I was happy with the developments with the relationship we were getting between Raine and Taldan.

Frankly speaking, I was really happy with how the plot was being handled until the last 10-15% of the book where I felt that the plot started to needlessly complicate itself or if not needlessly than to its detriment. This is where we enter spoiler territory, so you have been forewarned.

Raine and Taldan don't fall in love with each other but Raine hero-worships Taldan and Taldan is intrigued by Raine which were both promising to me but at some point in the book and this is a very discernible juncture the author decides to do two things, she makes the journey to Raine becoming the Chosen convoluted while labelling Hredeen and Taldan's relationship as love something the plot stringently guards itself form doing prior to that. It creates a complication I have never encountered in a romance and I for one have no idea what is going to happen between Raine and Taldan, but I definitely want to know what happens next and that is why immediately after reading this one, I jumped into the next book.

Overall, this is a fascinating read but I feel anyone reading this book should definitely temper their expectations for romance because while the initial 80% of the book might seem like one the remaining 20% doesn't follow through.

[goss · Rating 2 out of 5]

This novel left me wanting in more ways than one. While the initial development of characters was intriguing, the follow through left much to be desired.

While i very much enjoyed getting to know the ensemble cast, it feels it almost came at the expense of the main romance - for not only did we barely have a romance between the main characters, they also spent but a handful of scenes together.

Unbalanced handling of relationships aside, on the fantasy aspect of the novel, I did feel like there was untapped potential regarding the magics inherent in the Emperor's seat of power. Perhap's Rain's interest in architecture and history could have led him into stumbling across a few buried secrets about the empire's origins, giving him a purpose beyond that of a pawn or Chosen candidate.

Also, looking back, its dubious whether someone in Rain's position (under the threat of his brother) would spend weeks in a library, knowing he most likely not be in any position to put any of the knowledge to use in the future. Perhaps it could be excused as escapism or bring in denial, but it was never explained as such. I do think there could have been a secondary plot for Rain to spend his time on instead, as a distraction. Something that brought his concern for Taldan or the Empire to the forefront and fleshed out his characterization better so it wasn't as dependant on exposition instead.

In the end I feel like while the were fantasy and slash elements, both could have been developed further to allow for a richer narrative and character development.

[becky · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars that would've been 4 stars if the book had had even one (1) female character.

I found this book by accident and did not expect much, but found myself positively surprised by the plot as well as the characters. It is not a typical romance and thus not a book for readers who are coming here to see Raine and Taldan fall in love at first sight. They are, arguably, not even necessarily the main pairing. Nevertheless, the progression of their relationship was what kept me hooked all the way through the book and made me look forward to future books in this series.

The character development was not as smooth as it could've been, in my opinion, but I enjoyed the writing nevertheless. There are a few grammatical errors, but they're not glaringly obvious and thus not very distracting.

The only thing that really dampened my enjoyment of the book was the complete absence of female characters. But this also resulted in the absence of straight characters, so I cannot complain too much.

[Ng · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 stars

Interesting world with interesting characters. Loved the world building: empire set up and politics.
Taldan is the Imperial Heir of Anrodnes. He is holding a traditional ceremony by which the 'chosen', a companion, is selected. The 'Chosen' is to be selected before the Heir becomes the emperor and starts wears the metal mask. After his ascendance, the Chosen is the only person who can see the emperor without the mask. Raine is one of the competitors for the 'Chosen' position, forced to take part by his brothers. He gets to know the heir, makes friends, while being sure that he would not get selected. Liked the supporting characters. A few things did not make sense and I loved one of the supporting characters, Hredeen and was really sad that he was not paired with Taldan.
Really curious to know more about the "Chosen" and eagerly waiting for the second book.

[philip jarvis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brilliant

Such a good start to a new series not at all what I was expecting after having read the only review on Amazon i started this book fully expecting to read a book with no passion between the m.ain character's but that couldn't be farther from the truth it was full to the brim with passion maybe not the romantic kind but there was deffinitly a sexual chemistry and passion all the way through can not wait for next book

[llv · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating: 4 stars
I really liked this book. It wasn’t a romance by any means, and it wasn’t even what I would consider romantic. I really liked the characters and loved that we got multiple points of view throughout the story. I’m really interested in seeing where the author takes the series.

[Stephanie GooglyEyes · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book gave me life. I can't wait for February

[Kyuteepie · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

[Michael Joseph · Rating 4 out of 5]

My review of “Dark Rain” can be read at my web site.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This well-written HFN book starts a saga of mysticism, magical powers, betrayals, and plots. Prince Taldan is almost ready to ascend to the position of emperor of a very large empire. He must select a Chosen to be his bonded partner and holder of some of the magical powers that will ascend on him.

Raine is one of 24 royals from various kingdoms in the empire to compete to become the Chosen. Forced by his cruel, abusive older brother to attend as a representative of their kingdom, Raine has always admired the Prince. He expects that he is probably the least qualified to be chosen, but he tries to make the best of the experience.

This story has a very workable and interesting set of characters surround the prince, including a brother, a companion, and favored concubine, as well as others. There is a lot going on in the book, but the overall action is easy to follow and it all comes together very well. The romance is uncertain and slow burn. I look forward to reading Bk 2 in the series to see what happens next. Highly recommended!

[Luna Ray · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dark, intense, and impossible to put down.
J.C. Owens writes with a raw emotional edge that pulls you deep into the story. The world-building is rich and gritty, and the tension between characters had me completely hooked. It’s one of those books that lingers long after the last page not just for the romance, but for the storm of emotions it takes you through. Loved every second.

[Jazzfarer · Rating 3 out of 5]

Okay, I'm gonna start with the good because the rest devolves into ranting and it's not a bad book. It's just not a romance novel. Raine is far and away the best part of this story. He's funny, smart, sweet, practical. He's stronger than he thinks he is. I loved the way he tries his hardest to keep to himself and out of anyone's way, and has no idea that his very presence is turning the palace upside down. There's also a scene where he was, um, under the influence, and it was HILARIOUS. I really wish there had been more levity like that in the story. Especially for Raine. And... despite my rant below, I bought book 2. The writing itself was compelling for me, which is why I rated the book 3 stars and not 2, but honestly the tipping point that made me make the purchase was a certain desperation to see Raine *happy.*

Book 3 of the trilogy is not out yet, so heads up on that. (as of April 29,2019)

On to the rant:

First, this ends on a cliffhanger. Nothing is resolved. Not. One. Thing. Second, the blurb led me to believe that Raine and Taldan were going to fall in love. Also does not happen. Taldan and Raine spend very little time with each other to the point that when they are finally thrown together, it didn't have much emotional impact for me as a reader. Raine barely ever crosses Taldan's thoughts, and freaking TALDAN spends the entire book in love with someone *else* all the way to THE VERY LAST PAGE.

So, no, I don't consider it a romance novel.

Lots of POV characters. Raine, Taldan, Zaran, Hredeen, Isnay, and Naral from what I can remember. Still not sure how I feel about that format. On the one hand it was interesting to see their viewpoints, on the other I found myself groaning every time the POV switched to a person that was not Raine or Taldan because I believed the blurb and thought they were going to fall in love. I kept waiting for the moment where Taldan would see what a gift Raine was, but he never did. Although I guess he didn't have the advantage of five other POVs to see from. Oo

Raine spent most of his time with Isnay, the only other character that *I* fell in love with. Halfway through the book I was actively rooting for those two to get together, they were so cute. And had chemistry. Not the "I wanna jump your bones" kinda chemistry, just...chemistry. Something that could have blossomed into something more.

As you can probably tell, not terribly impressed with Taldan. Did I understand where he was coming from? Yeah. Impressed? Nah.

***MAJOR SPOILER BELOW***


In my opinion, if a 19 year old kid risks his own life to save yours, knowing it might kill him, knowing it will bond him for life to you in a way he's not sure he's strong enough to endure, and then has ceremonial sex with you in front of a room full of witnesses in order to seal that bond, you are not allowed to get up in the middle of the night and leave that cinnamon roll alone in bed so you can go to the window and whisper the name of your other lover. TALDAN.