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The Venatrix Chronicles #4
Dance of Souls
Venatrix Ayleth made a vow of loyalty to her Holy Order.
But is the Order loyal to Ayleth?
Still recovering from her deadly encounter with the Phantomwitch, Ayleth finds herself the unwilling guest of the Golden Prince, forced to enjoy his hospitality . . . and the not-so-gentle ministrations of Venator Fendrel du Glaive.
There’s something strange about Fendrel. The way he stares at her is unsettling—as though she’s a monster, as though she’s guilty of some great sin. But didn’t she just defeat one of the worst enemies Perrinion has ever known? Hasn’t she proven her worth?
And then there’s Terryn, who may be lying to her, who may not be the loyal venator everyone believes him to be. He also looks at her strangely . . . but his gaze makes her heart stop and her pulse race in ways she’s never felt before.
As the night of Prince Gerard’s wedding approaches and the kingdom gathers to celebrate new beginnings, dark forces close in on all sides. Certain secrets, long buried deep, are bound to emerge at last.
When they do, will Ayleth have the strength to stand and fight?
Don’t miss the newest installment in the bestselling Venatrix Chronicles!
Book 5 is coming in March 2020. This series must be read in order.
But is the Order loyal to Ayleth?
Still recovering from her deadly encounter with the Phantomwitch, Ayleth finds herself the unwilling guest of the Golden Prince, forced to enjoy his hospitality . . . and the not-so-gentle ministrations of Venator Fendrel du Glaive.
There’s something strange about Fendrel. The way he stares at her is unsettling—as though she’s a monster, as though she’s guilty of some great sin. But didn’t she just defeat one of the worst enemies Perrinion has ever known? Hasn’t she proven her worth?
And then there’s Terryn, who may be lying to her, who may not be the loyal venator everyone believes him to be. He also looks at her strangely . . . but his gaze makes her heart stop and her pulse race in ways she’s never felt before.
As the night of Prince Gerard’s wedding approaches and the kingdom gathers to celebrate new beginnings, dark forces close in on all sides. Certain secrets, long buried deep, are bound to emerge at last.
When they do, will Ayleth have the strength to stand and fight?
Don’t miss the newest installment in the bestselling Venatrix Chronicles!
Book 5 is coming in March 2020. This series must be read in order.
362 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 8, 2020
329 people are currently reading
744 people want to read
About the author
Sylvia Mercedes
37 books2,274 followersHi, there. I'm Sylvia: cat-lover, tea-drinker, book-addict, and avid fan of the Kickbutt Heroine Fantasy Genre! If you like reading about tough heroines with extraordinary powers facing their demons and saving their loved ones . . . then we ought to be friends!
Be sure to subscribe to my newsletter. You get my novel, Song of Shadows, for FREE when you sign up!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 100 reviews
July 30, 2022
Secrets and vengeful witches are coming back to haunt the Venators!
And dang it-we get another cliffhanger ending!
Can't wait for the next one thought! *grabby hands*
And dang it-we get another cliffhanger ending!
Can't wait for the next one thought! *grabby hands*
March 9, 2021
Ahhh 😩 Just when it was getting good between Ayleth and Terryn, he had to go and screw it up by opening his mouth. C’mon you two!
Poor Prince Gerard just can’t catch a break. I’m heartbroken for him and his new bride. Honestly, I feel horrible for ALL of them. Can nothing go right for these people? I want to punch Fendrel. He is such an ASS!
Now I have go and start the next book cause EVERYTHING is about to come out. All the secrets and Ayleth is going to find out exactly who she is and where she comes from. I’m ready to move past that. 🙂
Poor Prince Gerard just can’t catch a break. I’m heartbroken for him and his new bride. Honestly, I feel horrible for ALL of them. Can nothing go right for these people? I want to punch Fendrel. He is such an ASS!
Now I have go and start the next book cause EVERYTHING is about to come out. All the secrets and Ayleth is going to find out exactly who she is and where she comes from. I’m ready to move past that. 🙂
January 24, 2020
Not to sound like a greedy pig, but I need this book soon! I don't think I could actually wait beyond March, that month is looking delightful now. The last installment made October something to look forward to, and now this!! On another note - that model on the cover suits my idea of what Ayleth looks like so, so well. Guess it just sums up how well this series is ticking every box for me.
Update: 11 Jan
I AM YELLING IT'S OUT ALREADY?! SO NOT MARCH AS I EXPECTED - TIME FOR ME TO OVERCOME THE TEMPTATION TO EAT THIS BOOK UNTIL OTHER LIFE COMMITMENTS ARE DONE WITH GOD JANUARY IS LOOKING DELICIOUS
Update: of course the fourth installment in the series hits the spot like every other. That entire trope of the heroine being unwillingly thrust into the hero's world of elegance, and uncomfortable and decadent gowns, and fancy decorum, and both seeing each other in a new light - the most enromous fun to see it play out here!
(The only reason why this review is not more gushy and babbling is because I'm writing this much later after I ate this book.)
Watching Mr Frozen Restraint aka Terryn thaw and burn into Heat and Almost-Flames has been DELICIOUS, a privilege, and he's close to exploding here, which is literally the best thing EVER to watch. A slow burn was promised - and oh god are we getting the burnin'! The CHEMISTRY good lord. We're gonna be getting full fire soon, and I'm not ready.
The way Ayleth and Terryn's relationship progresses incrementally is measured perfection - tantalising will-they-wont-they heights, never rushed, and leaves me wanting more with almost enough to chomp on. We're close to getting full, people, and again - I am unprepared.
The trajectory of the relationship Ms Mercedes had gifted us with is just everything. God those scenes with them together in this book had me in noisy emotions with all that edge-of-seat stuff, vulnerability, the epic battling of feelings, and boiling tensionnnnn. I mean, two independent, powerful people with pitiful and complicated pasts, slowly building a relationship based off trust, RESPECT, steady smouldering attraction AND sharing a lot in common in the backdrop of an intriguing world with fascinating and original rules of magic - ugh. Reader, I feast. This series has become something I massively look forward to, that has excited me with every new book, and I'm very grateful for what it's brought to my life that way.
Of course, world-building continues to be solid amidst the unique magical elements pervading this universe and whatnot. I appreciate the attention to detail in terms of plot, which adds that satisfying element of completeness. For example, a few things that required explanations were brought up from previous books and dealt with - one of which I'd even completely forgotten needed explaining, as enamoured as I was with the chemistry going on! The Golden Prince his feelings towards his fiancée were also explored more, something I'd thought needed a bit more detail in the last book. Good stuff. And there's more mystery to uncover, so cheers to that!
Update: 11 Jan
I AM YELLING IT'S OUT ALREADY?! SO NOT MARCH AS I EXPECTED - TIME FOR ME TO OVERCOME THE TEMPTATION TO EAT THIS BOOK UNTIL OTHER LIFE COMMITMENTS ARE DONE WITH GOD JANUARY IS LOOKING DELICIOUS
Update: of course the fourth installment in the series hits the spot like every other. That entire trope of the heroine being unwillingly thrust into the hero's world of elegance, and uncomfortable and decadent gowns, and fancy decorum, and both seeing each other in a new light - the most enromous fun to see it play out here!
(The only reason why this review is not more gushy and babbling is because I'm writing this much later after I ate this book.)
Watching Mr Frozen Restraint aka Terryn thaw and burn into Heat and Almost-Flames has been DELICIOUS, a privilege, and he's close to exploding here, which is literally the best thing EVER to watch. A slow burn was promised - and oh god are we getting the burnin'! The CHEMISTRY good lord. We're gonna be getting full fire soon, and I'm not ready.
The way Ayleth and Terryn's relationship progresses incrementally is measured perfection - tantalising will-they-wont-they heights, never rushed, and leaves me wanting more with almost enough to chomp on. We're close to getting full, people, and again - I am unprepared.
The trajectory of the relationship Ms Mercedes had gifted us with is just everything. God those scenes with them together in this book had me in noisy emotions with all that edge-of-seat stuff, vulnerability, the epic battling of feelings, and boiling tensionnnnn. I mean, two independent, powerful people with pitiful and complicated pasts, slowly building a relationship based off trust, RESPECT, steady smouldering attraction AND sharing a lot in common in the backdrop of an intriguing world with fascinating and original rules of magic - ugh. Reader, I feast. This series has become something I massively look forward to, that has excited me with every new book, and I'm very grateful for what it's brought to my life that way.
Of course, world-building continues to be solid amidst the unique magical elements pervading this universe and whatnot. I appreciate the attention to detail in terms of plot, which adds that satisfying element of completeness. For example, a few things that required explanations were brought up from previous books and dealt with - one of which I'd even completely forgotten needed explaining, as enamoured as I was with the chemistry going on! The Golden Prince his feelings towards his fiancée were also explored more, something I'd thought needed a bit more detail in the last book. Good stuff. And there's more mystery to uncover, so cheers to that!
January 15, 2020
Incredible. Simply incredible. This series keeps getting better and better, and is such a compelling read one cannot put it down. It pains me to wait for the next book, after such a dramatic conclusion! These characters have me hooked, the plot has me always guessing, and world has me immersed. Bravo, Sylvia Mercedes!
January 9, 2020
Dance of Souls By Sylvia Mercedes
*****4.5*****
**OUT NOW ON AMAZON, JAN 9th 2020 $2.99 AND BOOK 1 IS ON FOR $0.99**
I want to thank Ms. Mercedes for providing me with an ARC of this novel. This did not affect my review or opinion of the book.
Haunts damn. Yet another amazing installment.
Dance picks up immediately after the events of Paths of Malice. We find Ayleth recovering from her battle and still don't know why Fendrel reacted to her the way he did.
This book sees Ayleth far out of her comfort zone; healing and in a dress, but she still manages to maintain her fierce demeanor and kick butt when she's needed.
Book 4 is light on the relationship between Ayleth and Laranta, something I did miss a little bit. But the romances start to heat up. Ms. Mercedes is a master of tension and suspense and I kept turning pages long after I should have been asleep.
We get some great glimpses into other characters and their relationships in this book including Terryn, Gerard and Cerine. We are so close to more answers about everyone but there are still more books to come.
As always, the magic in enthralling and the descriptions easily visualized. Ms. Mercedes makes writing look easy (when it is very far from it).
If you haven't already read this series I highly recommend it. Starting with either the prequel Song of Shadows or book one Daughter of Shades. This is an amazing series for both YA Fantasy and Adult readers. Can't wait for book 5!
*****4.5*****
**OUT NOW ON AMAZON, JAN 9th 2020 $2.99 AND BOOK 1 IS ON FOR $0.99**
I want to thank Ms. Mercedes for providing me with an ARC of this novel. This did not affect my review or opinion of the book.
Haunts damn. Yet another amazing installment.
Dance picks up immediately after the events of Paths of Malice. We find Ayleth recovering from her battle and still don't know why Fendrel reacted to her the way he did.
This book sees Ayleth far out of her comfort zone; healing and in a dress, but she still manages to maintain her fierce demeanor and kick butt when she's needed.
Book 4 is light on the relationship between Ayleth and Laranta, something I did miss a little bit. But the romances start to heat up. Ms. Mercedes is a master of tension and suspense and I kept turning pages long after I should have been asleep.
We get some great glimpses into other characters and their relationships in this book including Terryn, Gerard and Cerine. We are so close to more answers about everyone but there are still more books to come.
As always, the magic in enthralling and the descriptions easily visualized. Ms. Mercedes makes writing look easy (when it is very far from it).
If you haven't already read this series I highly recommend it. Starting with either the prequel Song of Shadows or book one Daughter of Shades. This is an amazing series for both YA Fantasy and Adult readers. Can't wait for book 5!
April 14, 2021
This is my favorite so far! You get more of everyone. You get into the Prince's head and are introduced to his betrothed! They have a nice side story that really added to this. The romance is in dangerous full swing. The dance between them was awesome! So much more is being revealed and I am loving the slow peal of all the layers. This series is just fun.
PG13. Violence and non-sexual nudity and there is a bit of sensuality.
PG13. Violence and non-sexual nudity and there is a bit of sensuality.
January 10, 2020
This book in one sentence: While the witches plot their next attack, Ayleth finds herself trapped in the castle overcoming the hardest challenge yet, assisting a royal wedding and ball!
My rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Steaminess: 🌶️
My recommendation: Good continuation of the series, although the overall story did not progress as much as I would have hoped. This, more than the first three books, felt a little incomplete, like a section of a bigger book and not its own book. Also, there definitely wasn't enough Laranta! The action scene at the climax was thrilling and it ends on quite a cliffhanger. Looking forward to the next release in March.
*I received an ARC of this book*
My rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Steaminess: 🌶️
My recommendation: Good continuation of the series, although the overall story did not progress as much as I would have hoped. This, more than the first three books, felt a little incomplete, like a section of a bigger book and not its own book. Also, there definitely wasn't enough Laranta! The action scene at the climax was thrilling and it ends on quite a cliffhanger. Looking forward to the next release in March.
*I received an ARC of this book*
January 2, 2020
Another action-packed instalment in the Venatrix Chronicles! Dance of Souls finds our gruff heroine rather out of her depth in a royal court preparing for a wedding. Loyal to the Golden Prince, Ayleth grits her teeth and prepares to face her worst test yet: a dance in a nice dress. Things improve when she can alter her outfit to suit her taste...but of course, wherever Ayleth is, a confrontation with long-banished witches can't be too far away, and she won't be out of her element for long.
This book throws some more intriguing twists at us, as well as deepening the uneasy relationship between Ayleth and her competitor Terryn du Balafre and ending on quite a cliffhanger. Another worthy instalment in a dark and twisty adventure featuring a witch-hunting religious order, heretic nuns, and creepy dark magic. As usual, I'm eager to read the next one!
This book throws some more intriguing twists at us, as well as deepening the uneasy relationship between Ayleth and her competitor Terryn du Balafre and ending on quite a cliffhanger. Another worthy instalment in a dark and twisty adventure featuring a witch-hunting religious order, heretic nuns, and creepy dark magic. As usual, I'm eager to read the next one!
January 12, 2020
Invested
This was a tough series to start for me but now that we’re at this point, I’m fully invested.
Events pick up where the last book left off and my does the tension build! The whole book immediately starts setting up for the climax which had me squirming where I sit, knowing things are going to go down.
I also love Ayelth and Terryns interactions in this book. They are both still stubborn as hell but the way their affections deep out is true to character. It’s not how the dance is done but it’s how they do it!
This was a tough series to start for me but now that we’re at this point, I’m fully invested.
Events pick up where the last book left off and my does the tension build! The whole book immediately starts setting up for the climax which had me squirming where I sit, knowing things are going to go down.
I also love Ayelth and Terryns interactions in this book. They are both still stubborn as hell but the way their affections deep out is true to character. It’s not how the dance is done but it’s how they do it!
January 8, 2020
Sylvia Mercedes has a brilliant way with words, let's face it. There are many great authors that I really enjoy reading and they pull you in to their stories kicking and screaming. Ms Mercedes does the same, but I go willingly as her words are so expressive, filled with emotion and loaded with meaning. There is not one single superfluous word in this book, or in this series.
I love the relationship that Ayleth has with Laranta, that no other Venator/Venatrix seems to have with their shade. Ayleth is forced to do something against her will here, and I sincerely hope that Laranta understands and forgives her. I would love to find out more about the earlier stages of their 'connection' and how they came to have such a strong bond. Perhaps a wee side story or something?
Ayleth has such a strength of character. The descriptions of her recovery are so detailed and vivid that the reader almost feels they are the one trying to get their spirit back. It's an excellent storyline, well-told and action-packed, strong characterisations, and a 'will they/won't they/but they can't, it's against the rules' slow-burner. There's a secret we don't yet understand, an underlying recognition by Venator Fendrel that causes him to do unspeakable horrors. Why? I can't wait to find out!
Five easy stars and a pure longing for time to pass quickly for the release of book #5.
I love the relationship that Ayleth has with Laranta, that no other Venator/Venatrix seems to have with their shade. Ayleth is forced to do something against her will here, and I sincerely hope that Laranta understands and forgives her. I would love to find out more about the earlier stages of their 'connection' and how they came to have such a strong bond. Perhaps a wee side story or something?
Ayleth has such a strength of character. The descriptions of her recovery are so detailed and vivid that the reader almost feels they are the one trying to get their spirit back. It's an excellent storyline, well-told and action-packed, strong characterisations, and a 'will they/won't they/but they can't, it's against the rules' slow-burner. There's a secret we don't yet understand, an underlying recognition by Venator Fendrel that causes him to do unspeakable horrors. Why? I can't wait to find out!
Five easy stars and a pure longing for time to pass quickly for the release of book #5.
December 26, 2019
This series keeps getting better and more better. I just don't get how much I keep falling in love with it with every sentence I read. Ayleth is the most amazing character I've ever read. And of course, I love Terryn. And the way Ayleth keeps fighting the witches, even when she is in a dress without her weapons, is breath taking. All the fights, characters, plot and most importantly the complete plot twists just make this book the best. I hadn't seen many things coming and I enjoyed each of them very very much.
I can't say how much I love it. And I really can't wait for the next one.
I can't say how much I love it. And I really can't wait for the next one.
March 11, 2022
I was promised that Terryn would see Ayleth in a dress in this installment, so I already knew it was probably going to be my favorite one yet. The jury is still out since I've read the first three books twice and have had more time to deal with the emotional trauma in them, though.
This book has a lot of inter-character interaction and court intrigue, which is fantastic. We only just got to meet Fendrel in the last book, and now the Chosen King makes his scene. And the older and younger generations are on a collision course, let me tell you. And my precious Terryn is facing a great deal of internal struggle as he deals with unwanted feelings for Ayleth, his rival and his greatest temptation from being the perfect venerator he always strove to be. There is a scene reminiscent of the Hand Touching scene from the 2008 Pride & Prejudice that almost knocked me out of my seat with the force of it restrained passion. Not to mention, the title alludes to the perfect scene shared by Terryn and Ayleth that is such a symbol and culmination both of their relationship that had Gerard and me anticipating the sailing of our ship. And Fendral asking questions about what on earth is going on here.
Unfortunately, the title also alludes to the main witch antagonist of this book and her evil plot that has you watching in trepidation as it builds up to an EPIC climax that I am still processing. And I don't care what anyone else might say about Fendrel and the Golden King, when the latter cried out for his brother, my heart broke in two. You're not a real villain if you love at least one person purely, and they both have that covered.
Also, while I'm really glad that what messed me up really bad in the last book has been partially undone, I am not happy with the consequences. I love even the unlikable characters, and especially the ones loved by the precious characters. Also, while I'm pretty sure Ayleth and Terryn will be fine as long as they have each other, I'm sending a fleet of therapists Gerard's way. My poor boy and I are still reeling from everything.
Note to more sensitive readers: This book had some bad language, violence, horror elements, and just plain intensity.
This book has a lot of inter-character interaction and court intrigue, which is fantastic. We only just got to meet Fendrel in the last book, and now the Chosen King makes his scene. And the older and younger generations are on a collision course, let me tell you. And my precious Terryn is facing a great deal of internal struggle as he deals with unwanted feelings for Ayleth, his rival and his greatest temptation from being the perfect venerator he always strove to be. There is a scene reminiscent of the Hand Touching scene from the 2008 Pride & Prejudice that almost knocked me out of my seat with the force of it restrained passion. Not to mention, the title alludes to the perfect scene shared by Terryn and Ayleth that is such a symbol and culmination both of their relationship that had Gerard and me anticipating the sailing of our ship. And Fendral asking questions about what on earth is going on here.
Unfortunately, the title also alludes to the main witch antagonist of this book and her evil plot that has you watching in trepidation as it builds up to an EPIC climax that I am still processing. And I don't care what anyone else might say about Fendrel and the Golden King, when the latter cried out for his brother, my heart broke in two. You're not a real villain if you love at least one person purely, and they both have that covered.
Also, while I'm really glad that what messed me up really bad in the last book has been partially undone, I am not happy with the consequences. I love even the unlikable characters, and especially the ones loved by the precious characters. Also, while I'm pretty sure Ayleth and Terryn will be fine as long as they have each other, I'm sending a fleet of therapists Gerard's way. My poor boy and I are still reeling from everything.
Note to more sensitive readers: This book had some bad language, violence, horror elements, and just plain intensity.
March 8, 2021
So, Ayleth and Terryn are still longing for eachother, especially when the other is on a sick bed. But, do they acknowledge this? No, of course not. They make up excuses as to why they can't stop thinking of the other, constantly reminding themselves of "what the other is" - dangerous, a liar, their competition. They are only fooling themselves though, and not very well.
The story picks up a couple days after the previous book, with Ayleth awakening from a drugged state which we can only assume she has been kept in since the insident. With the Witch taken care of, plans for the Prince's wedding continue, despite the fact that his first bride, Fayline, has just been put to rest. Tensions rise between Cerine and Gerard as the memory of Fayline stands between them, but they must do what is expected of them. Ayleth has also been asked to attend the wedding ball, not as a venatrix, but as a guest, as a thank you for her bravery that night. How can she refuse the Prince? So, she gets trussed up in a rather stupid and impractical ballgown and forced to act ladylike, all the while trying to decipher the hostility the King and Fendrel have towards her.
But, with the Warpwitch in search of her sister, who she believes is not really gone, can the venators really prevent the events of four years ago from reacurring?
Despite the fast read of this book, and the series to be fair, I still don't feel it is worth 5 stars. I love the concept of the world, and the secrets that are slowly being uncovered. The climax is always face paced and action pact, to the point you can almost feel the tension radiating off the pages. But it's still lacking something. Maybe it's because I guessed who Ayleth was from the outset? Either way, I'm looking forward to see where the story arc will go, especially with that ending!
The story picks up a couple days after the previous book, with Ayleth awakening from a drugged state which we can only assume she has been kept in since the insident. With the Witch taken care of, plans for the Prince's wedding continue, despite the fact that his first bride, Fayline, has just been put to rest. Tensions rise between Cerine and Gerard as the memory of Fayline stands between them, but they must do what is expected of them. Ayleth has also been asked to attend the wedding ball, not as a venatrix, but as a guest, as a thank you for her bravery that night. How can she refuse the Prince? So, she gets trussed up in a rather stupid and impractical ballgown and forced to act ladylike, all the while trying to decipher the hostility the King and Fendrel have towards her.
But, with the Warpwitch in search of her sister, who she believes is not really gone, can the venators really prevent the events of four years ago from reacurring?
Despite the fast read of this book, and the series to be fair, I still don't feel it is worth 5 stars. I love the concept of the world, and the secrets that are slowly being uncovered. The climax is always face paced and action pact, to the point you can almost feel the tension radiating off the pages. But it's still lacking something. Maybe it's because I guessed who Ayleth was from the outset? Either way, I'm looking forward to see where the story arc will go, especially with that ending!
March 16, 2020
If I’m being completely honest, I don’t know how I feel about this series after reading this installment. I know this book is a lot of people favourites in this series, but I felt very disconnected from it.
It could be because it has been a while since I read the last book, but I feel like I’ve lost interest in this world and these characters. I found the plot to be very underwhelming and almost predictable. I felt as though I was reading the same thing every time. I didn’t necessarily care all that much about these characters either. I did like the self journey we saw Ayleth continue to go on and her relationship with Terryn grow, but other than that, I truly didn’t find myself being interested or entertained by the other characters. I definitely didn’t think the plot twists were bad at all but I do feel like this story is dragging on a lot longer than it needs to.
Overall, I still did like this book but I’m hesitant to continue reading this series. I guess you will see what I decide if you see any goodreads updates about this series.
It could be because it has been a while since I read the last book, but I feel like I’ve lost interest in this world and these characters. I found the plot to be very underwhelming and almost predictable. I felt as though I was reading the same thing every time. I didn’t necessarily care all that much about these characters either. I did like the self journey we saw Ayleth continue to go on and her relationship with Terryn grow, but other than that, I truly didn’t find myself being interested or entertained by the other characters. I definitely didn’t think the plot twists were bad at all but I do feel like this story is dragging on a lot longer than it needs to.
Overall, I still did like this book but I’m hesitant to continue reading this series. I guess you will see what I decide if you see any goodreads updates about this series.
March 14, 2020
This one is certainly a cliff-hanger. While the rest are as well, this one ended abruptly.
We have more answers in this book, however, we have more questions too.
So, it could be construed as spoilers, if you haven't read the other books, stop here.
Onto book 5!!
We have more answers in this book, however, we have more questions too.
So, it could be construed as spoilers, if you haven't read the other books, stop here.
Onto book 5!!
December 13, 2021
Though I flew through this one, I have a couple of mixed feelings about it. While I did love the character moments, particularly with Cerine, Gerard, and Ayleth, this book didn't quite feel like it moved the overarching plot very far.
Ayleth is still a rugged, focused warrior who lives for the fight and for herself. I liked Terryn's development up until the end of the book. For me, Cerine and Gerard stole the show. I enjoyed their interactions and found Gerard to be a lot deeper and more engaging.
The action is still exciting and the ending held a lot of revelations, but something about it didn't quite catch my attention as the previous books did. I am looking forward to seeing what happens in the next books, and can't wait to get some answers and hopefully, alliances between the characters.
Ayleth is still a rugged, focused warrior who lives for the fight and for herself. I liked Terryn's development up until the end of the book. For me, Cerine and Gerard stole the show. I enjoyed their interactions and found Gerard to be a lot deeper and more engaging.
The action is still exciting and the ending held a lot of revelations, but something about it didn't quite catch my attention as the previous books did. I am looking forward to seeing what happens in the next books, and can't wait to get some answers and hopefully, alliances between the characters.
January 25, 2020
This is a superb next book in an intriguing series. Ayleth is a perfect character for this story. Once I start reading, I couldn’t put it down. Ready for the next one.
June 10, 2020
Actual Rating: 3.5 Stars!
November 17, 2020
So, so intense! Listening to this audiobook made a long drive become very short indeed!
December 27, 2019
This review is for am ARC copy.
Haunts damn woman! March for the next book?! I was litteraly on the edge of my seat, bed, table (everywhere I went with my kindle in hand, unable to stop reading!!).
Ayleth and Terryn make such an awesome duo, whether they like it or not, so much so that I honestly hope there is more for them in the next book. They have this love hate relationship that they don't seem to know how to deal with.
This series just keeps getting better and better and promises such an epic ending that personally, I'm dying to read the next book already, especially after that cliffhanger! 😲
Sylvia Mercedes really knows how to keep the reader entertained and turning pages with her descriptive writing style, epic world building and fully fleshed characters.
If you have yet to read the previous books in this series, please, please do! I promise that you won't be disappointed!
Haunts damn woman! March for the next book?! I was litteraly on the edge of my seat, bed, table (everywhere I went with my kindle in hand, unable to stop reading!!).
Ayleth and Terryn make such an awesome duo, whether they like it or not, so much so that I honestly hope there is more for them in the next book. They have this love hate relationship that they don't seem to know how to deal with.
This series just keeps getting better and better and promises such an epic ending that personally, I'm dying to read the next book already, especially after that cliffhanger! 😲
Sylvia Mercedes really knows how to keep the reader entertained and turning pages with her descriptive writing style, epic world building and fully fleshed characters.
If you have yet to read the previous books in this series, please, please do! I promise that you won't be disappointed!
December 29, 2019
Best installment in the series so far! Ayleth grows in confidence as she discovers herself. We get to know some of the other main players in the series. Lots of action! This book is difficult to put down!
February 17, 2020
I like what we are seeing with the main characters relationship. I need more! The book felt pretty action packed and keeps you up late. I miss Laranta and am kind of bugged she hasn't gotten her memories yet. Anxiously awaiting the next installment.
July 15, 2021
Ok so I read this book in like 25 hours??
This one is my favorite of the series so far. I love how things were more political and intriguing, but still full of action, suspense and mystery. I can’t believe how fast I’m flying though this series!
This one is my favorite of the series so far. I love how things were more political and intriguing, but still full of action, suspense and mystery. I can’t believe how fast I’m flying though this series!
April 27, 2021
Bruh.
We have known about Ayleth's suppressed memories since book 1. We have seen glimpses of it in each book. It is now book 4. We have still. Not. Done. Anything. About. It. It's like having a character fighting for her life to get out of a room and the key is literally in a drawer that she does not open. For no reason. She knows it's there now. She knows. And she does not try to uncover it!! Why! I don't understand!! She knows she's been lied to. She knows her backstory is made up. She knows her memories have been messed with. And now she knows there are all these powerful people who are guarded around her and don't trust her and she doesn't know why. Maybe uncover your memories?? Maybe? MAYBE?
I just. I can't.
WHAT WAS THE REASON?? Cardi, girl I have never felt you more than I do after reading this book.
The romance is more pronounced in this book but again it's not very convincing for me. The sudden protectiveness is odd, I won't say that it's bad, it's just odd and a little awkward. I know y'all must have loved that dancing scene, but it was so out of character. These characters are stoic and them showing any emotion is just weird to me now because they haven't for the last 3 books so don't get mad at me for not believing these moments of shyness and nervousness okay. They should have been had more expressions and emotions.
Oh. Hold on. I am on the last chapter rn. She knows he's not trustworthy ok she knows he's cursed and can't control his actions. A page later: "Please... I need you. There's no one else I trust." What?? Girl.
I am more than half way finished with the series and girl. Just. It's time. It is time to reveal things Sylvia. I promise it'll be okay. Don't hold back, don't be shy. Let's go. BOOK 5 OK DO IT SYLVIA.
We have known about Ayleth's suppressed memories since book 1. We have seen glimpses of it in each book. It is now book 4. We have still. Not. Done. Anything. About. It. It's like having a character fighting for her life to get out of a room and the key is literally in a drawer that she does not open. For no reason. She knows it's there now. She knows. And she does not try to uncover it!! Why! I don't understand!! She knows she's been lied to. She knows her backstory is made up. She knows her memories have been messed with. And now she knows there are all these powerful people who are guarded around her and don't trust her and she doesn't know why. Maybe uncover your memories?? Maybe? MAYBE?
I just. I can't.
WHAT WAS THE REASON?? Cardi, girl I have never felt you more than I do after reading this book.
The romance is more pronounced in this book but again it's not very convincing for me. The sudden protectiveness is odd, I won't say that it's bad, it's just odd and a little awkward. I know y'all must have loved that dancing scene, but it was so out of character. These characters are stoic and them showing any emotion is just weird to me now because they haven't for the last 3 books so don't get mad at me for not believing these moments of shyness and nervousness okay. They should have been had more expressions and emotions.
Oh. Hold on. I am on the last chapter rn. She knows he's not trustworthy ok she knows he's cursed and can't control his actions. A page later: "Please... I need you. There's no one else I trust." What?? Girl.
I am more than half way finished with the series and girl. Just. It's time. It is time to reveal things Sylvia. I promise it'll be okay. Don't hold back, don't be shy. Let's go. BOOK 5 OK DO IT SYLVIA.
January 14, 2020
Ayleth is the Star
*****Spoilers*****
I'm glad everyone finally knows that Terryn is still under the influence of the Warpwitch; however, I'm disappointed in what happened when Cerine tried to explain the misinterpretation to the Golden Prince.
Ayleth is just as strong and honorable in this book but it gets in her way two times, one for good, one for ill. I'm not sure why the Black Hood is so against her even if she does look like her mother and drugging her seemed extreme given the circumstances and especially after watching her do her best to save the kingdom. I also hate how Ayleth is allowing herself to doubt her own shade due to the urgings of others when she has a bond none other Venatrix or Venator has. I also disliked how she used the iron spikes in her arm, the least she could have done was try to get Larantha to descend on her own before using the instrument.
The relationship between Ayleth and Terryn that's developing is intriguing. With Terryn's iron control over himself starting to slip, I'm eagerly awaiting the fireworks between them to blow and in a satisfying way.
How the witches continue to escape time and again is beyond me and though Ayleth killed the phantomwitch in the last book, I was sure it wouldn't be the last we saw of her and this book proves it as true. We'll see what the next book holds but I'm getting impatient for all of the dominoes to fall which is my own fault for starting a series before its conclusion. I hate waiting for the next one in the series to be published because I read them so quickly.
*****Spoilers*****
I'm glad everyone finally knows that Terryn is still under the influence of the Warpwitch; however, I'm disappointed in what happened when Cerine tried to explain the misinterpretation to the Golden Prince.
Ayleth is just as strong and honorable in this book but it gets in her way two times, one for good, one for ill. I'm not sure why the Black Hood is so against her even if she does look like her mother and drugging her seemed extreme given the circumstances and especially after watching her do her best to save the kingdom. I also hate how Ayleth is allowing herself to doubt her own shade due to the urgings of others when she has a bond none other Venatrix or Venator has. I also disliked how she used the iron spikes in her arm, the least she could have done was try to get Larantha to descend on her own before using the instrument.
The relationship between Ayleth and Terryn that's developing is intriguing. With Terryn's iron control over himself starting to slip, I'm eagerly awaiting the fireworks between them to blow and in a satisfying way.
How the witches continue to escape time and again is beyond me and though Ayleth killed the phantomwitch in the last book, I was sure it wouldn't be the last we saw of her and this book proves it as true. We'll see what the next book holds but I'm getting impatient for all of the dominoes to fall which is my own fault for starting a series before its conclusion. I hate waiting for the next one in the series to be published because I read them so quickly.
July 8, 2020
The fourth installment of The Venatrix Chronicles is a nice change of pace from Ayleth’s adventures from hunting down witches in the middle of nowhere and has her attending a wedding, which means different rules. I was so sad to see Laranta not present for big chunks of the story, but I understood why, but it’s not like she’s out entirely. But it’s not missing any of the twists and turns of the previous installments! There’s something new that happens every chapter that keeps my interest, and some of them surprised me. The characters were all developed well, and some, like Terryn got expanded a lot and we get more in depth about him and the relationship between him and Ayleth. The prose is easy to read and vivid and it brings along the quick pace as the previous books. Those last chapters were especially thrilling and took my emotions for a ride. That alone have me looking forward to the rest of the series for sure, with so many changes going forward.
Side note: I kept this review short because of all of the spoilers.
Side note: I kept this review short because of all of the spoilers.
January 20, 2022
More things were revealed, but lots of questions still. Its starting to feel a little repetitive and I'm not sure I want to continue the series. Though my curiosity is killing me at this point. Fendrel is a scoundrel and I really need him to go away! I can't believe Inren is back ugh! I had hoped that Ayleth had taken care of her. This shouldn't be happening. The king is an idiot and whatever happens, I hope he gets his just deserts. Gerard just can't catch a freaking break. First Fayline and now Cerine. I hope ayleth can save her. And get away from Fendrel. I'm ready for things to be resolved. This world is complex and interesting but the repetiveness is starting to get taxing. I hope the next books ups the anty and things take off.
January 14, 2020
So many twists and turns
There’s a lot to unpack in this book and a lot of sneaking around and plotting. This is a climatic build up to the next book where everything should be revealed. I enjoyed this and read it rather quickly, though it mostly focuses around a single event of the Golden Prince to be married. Otherwise there’s not a whole lot that goes on besides private thoughts, plots, fears and a few surprising reveals.
It would be best to read this and immediately move on to the next book because it does end on a cliffhanger with a lot of suspense of “what next” and possible peril for a few of the characters.
There’s a lot to unpack in this book and a lot of sneaking around and plotting. This is a climatic build up to the next book where everything should be revealed. I enjoyed this and read it rather quickly, though it mostly focuses around a single event of the Golden Prince to be married. Otherwise there’s not a whole lot that goes on besides private thoughts, plots, fears and a few surprising reveals.
It would be best to read this and immediately move on to the next book because it does end on a cliffhanger with a lot of suspense of “what next” and possible peril for a few of the characters.
January 17, 2020
I love this series and it's finally starting to come together the way I hoped it would. Prejudices are starting to be re-examined (something I hoped for since seeing Larenta's and Ayleth's bond and then seeing how others treat their shades) and the changes are so close I can almost touch it.
I love these characters and this story so I'm finding myself in that strange place where I can't wait for the next two books but I'm not looking forward to finishing the series for good. It's a hard place to be and I'm pretty sure that everyone who's read these books feel the same way.
I definitely recommend this series!
I love these characters and this story so I'm finding myself in that strange place where I can't wait for the next two books but I'm not looking forward to finishing the series for good. It's a hard place to be and I'm pretty sure that everyone who's read these books feel the same way.
I definitely recommend this series!
April 22, 2022
Book 4 in the Venatrix Chronicles
Shade Hunters...Witch Magic...False Prophecy...Heresy...Secrets...Deceit...Fear...Betrayal...
A kingdom built on lies. A cursed venator. A champion being sent. Truths revealed.
"United in brotherhood, both shade-taken and un-taken will stand together, establishing a new legacy under My Name."
Another gripping installment in this series. Each book in this series continues to build upon the next. The characters are well-developed and either loved or hated. The world building is so intricate that the reader can easily be transported into the storyline.
Shade Hunters...Witch Magic...False Prophecy...Heresy...Secrets...Deceit...Fear...Betrayal...
A kingdom built on lies. A cursed venator. A champion being sent. Truths revealed.
"United in brotherhood, both shade-taken and un-taken will stand together, establishing a new legacy under My Name."
Another gripping installment in this series. Each book in this series continues to build upon the next. The characters are well-developed and either loved or hated. The world building is so intricate that the reader can easily be transported into the storyline.
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