Can Teeka and Quill’s love born in the desert survive the new dangers hidden in the cliff city of Reghdad? On the faraway world of Persis, the new love between Emerald Keeper Teeka and Senior Hunter Quill is tested almost before it can flourish. During Teeka’s first Contract disaster had struck, thrusting him into danger and an uncertain future. After the sands settle, a strong relationship between himself and the handsome Quill has been forged in the heat of the harsh desert. When Teeka returns to the cliff city of Reghdad he finds that not all dangers come from the Great Valley. The blazing heat of Daymonth is nearly upon them and no one can survive outside on the surface of the planet- but his new lover Quill is desperately trying to get to Reghdad, and Teeka, before the start of it. Even if he makes it, the Council of Emerald Keep tries to separate them and denies Teeka’s Contract with the brooding Hunter. Accidents begin and Teeka discovers their enemy is more powerful than any of them suspected and he will stop at nothing to keep Teeka and Quill apart - even by striking in the very heart of the city. Contains explicit, adult sexual situations intended for mature readers. This is a standalone novel with no cliffhangers and an HEA ending. This is the sequel to Emerald Fire and starts after the events of the first book. It can be bought alone but reading in order enhances reading enjoyment. This is a Sci-fi Fantasy story set on another planet with different traditions and customs regarding male/male relationships - enjoy exploring it with us!
A. Catherine Noon is a multidimensional creator whose work bridges the worlds of storytelling, strategy, and sensory art. With over two decades of experience in the insurance industry, she brings analytical precision and calm-in-crisis leadership to every endeavor. As a trauma-informed creativity coach and brand strategist, she helps individuals and communities unlock their voice through emotionally resonant storytelling and sustainable creative workflows.
Noony is a published novelist, public speaker, and co-founder of Writer Zen Garden, a global community dedicated to creative exploration. Her work spans genres—from shifter romance to writing how-to guides—and she’s known for her intuitive grasp of audience psychology and visual branding. A lifelong learner and textile artist, she also teaches calligraphy, fiber arts, and creative writing, blending tactile engagement with emotional depth.
Whether she’s analyzing market trends, sketching dragonflies, or crafting a YouTube read-through, Noony’s signature is clarity with heart. She lives on a forest homestead in Washington State, where she finds inspiration in herbalism, folklore, and the quiet magic of the everyday.
Resume Highlights: • Strategic brand consultant for authors and creatives • Published author (as A. Catherine Noon), co-author with Rachel Wilder • Founder of Writer Zen Garden • Trauma-informed creativity coach and workshop facilitator • Insurance market analyst with 20+ years’ experience • Textile artist and calligraphy instructor • Public speaker and community builder
It's been a while since I read the first book of the series ... but I enjoyed that more as it was set within a harsher and more dangerous desert exploratory/mining setting. MC Teeka showed more spunk and gumption in his striking out for independence and adventure (despite all the death, turmoil and snares thrown at him).
Teeka is physically recovering from major injuries in this sequel but seems more prone to pouting, getting frightened and bursting into tears (which I guess could be post-traumatic symptoms ...). The setting is removed back to Teeka's home setting of Emerald Keep where he can convalesce (and thereby spend an awful amount of time bathing, choosing appropriate silks to wear, nibbling on teacakes, defending his prior decisions to family members and introducing lover Quill to all and sundry as his now-intended. I found myself skipping sections to find some real drama/action ... there are some to be fair (attempts on the life of Quill and others) and Teeka having to fend off unwanted romantic attention from a former crush.
I was left feeling a little underwhelmed by the HEA ... so 2.5 stars at best.