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Silk and Steel #3.5
Lost & Found
What use is a blade without a war?
After giving their lives to the Order, the Ashford assassins are in crisis. The battles are over, the war is no more, but assassins cannot retire from who they are.
Trey knows this. He may not have been an Assassin of the Order for long, but it was long enough to leave him scarred. Restless and heartsick, he returns to wandering, traveling from settlement to settlement, delivering tokens of love, not death.
Among his Order brethren at Ashford, he rediscovers the joy of careless pleasures and the thrill of knowing he'll be gone in the morning. But one assassin isn't so easily dismissed. Proud, powerful, and a self-centered prick, Sentinel Venali is everything Trey despises. But he fucks like there's no tomorrow, and right now, sex with no strings attached is exactly what Trey needs.
When fellow Order elves begin to take their own lives, the depth of the damage done by the war becomes apparent.
Trey has watched those around him buckle beneath their fears, powerless to stop their self-destructive path. He knows some cries for help are silent. And few need help more than the damaged Venali.
Tomorrow, Trey will be gone. Because staying means loving, and his cracked heart cannot withstand another break.
If only it were that simple to say goodbye.
***
Trey's novella takes place after events in the Silk & Steel trilogy. For the best experience, please read the Silk & Steel trilogy first. This novella does contain spoilers for the Silk & Steel series of novels.
After giving their lives to the Order, the Ashford assassins are in crisis. The battles are over, the war is no more, but assassins cannot retire from who they are.
Trey knows this. He may not have been an Assassin of the Order for long, but it was long enough to leave him scarred. Restless and heartsick, he returns to wandering, traveling from settlement to settlement, delivering tokens of love, not death.
Among his Order brethren at Ashford, he rediscovers the joy of careless pleasures and the thrill of knowing he'll be gone in the morning. But one assassin isn't so easily dismissed. Proud, powerful, and a self-centered prick, Sentinel Venali is everything Trey despises. But he fucks like there's no tomorrow, and right now, sex with no strings attached is exactly what Trey needs.
When fellow Order elves begin to take their own lives, the depth of the damage done by the war becomes apparent.
Trey has watched those around him buckle beneath their fears, powerless to stop their self-destructive path. He knows some cries for help are silent. And few need help more than the damaged Venali.
Tomorrow, Trey will be gone. Because staying means loving, and his cracked heart cannot withstand another break.
If only it were that simple to say goodbye.
***
Trey's novella takes place after events in the Silk & Steel trilogy. For the best experience, please read the Silk & Steel trilogy first. This novella does contain spoilers for the Silk & Steel series of novels.
130 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 27, 2019
34 people are currently reading
769 people want to read
About the author
Ariana Nash
51 books2,241 followersBorn to wolves, Ariana Nash only ventures from the Cornish moors when the moon is fat and the night alive with myths and legends. She captures those myths in glass jars and returning home, weaves them into stories filled with forbidden desires, fantasy realms, and wicked delights.
Her debut novel Silk & Steel hit Amazon's:
#1 LGBT Bestsellers Horror
#1 LGBT Bestsellers Fantasy
#1 LGBT Fantasy Hot New Releases
#1 LGBT Horror Hot New Releases - for 3 months!
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Her debut novel Silk & Steel hit Amazon's:
#1 LGBT Bestsellers Horror
#1 LGBT Bestsellers Fantasy
#1 LGBT Fantasy Hot New Releases
#1 LGBT Horror Hot New Releases - for 3 months!
Join her Goodreads group here: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
Sign up to her newsletter here: https://www.subscribepage.com/silk-steel
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
August 18, 2022
4,5 'Trey and Venali turned me into an emotional mess!' stars
First read: 6 May 2020 ⭐⭐⭐⭐/⭐
Re-read: 18 Aug 2022 ⭐⭐⭐⭐/⭐
As I already said in my update - Ariana Nash must be a sorceress of some kind, otherwise, I can't explain how can she make me feel so much in such a short time for the characters I barely know? Because let me tell you, this made me feel ALL THE FEELS!!! Don't expect some fancy gifs or pretty words this time - I'm going into a complete crazy fangirling mode! (Edit: now with pics but most of them in the spoiler tag because of nsfw art 😉)
I wanted Trey's novella since his appearance in Sealed with a Kiss, where he unexpectedly stole my heart. Tattooed, dark-haired, elven messenger with a dirty mind. Yes, yes, and YES!
When his story turned a tragic route in book 3 (one more reason to hate Nye), I was rooting even more for his HEA. But I didn't realize exactly how much I needed his happy ending until I saw him smile again here. He truly deserved it 💖💖💖
And Venali!!! Sweet fucking diamonds! Where was he hiding the whole series?!? I remember he was mentioned a few times but nothing really memorable. However, his entrance here... Ariana has a special ability to make you fall in love with a character in one single sentence.
O-M-G! It seems Trey and I have the same type because that was some serious love at first sight going on there. The only difference was that he didn't admit it and I knew better.
Hello indeed *grinning* Yes, Venali is a brooding bastard most of the time but the vulnerable part *le sigh* He's actually such a gentle soul. And he has a killer fashion sense. The knee-high boots alone gave me an orgasm or two and that's only one part of his attire. I'll just stop here before I get completely carried away.
Wow, the sexual tension was off the charts. I was fanning myself all the time. Either just the two of them or the threesome version, I was ok with everything.
But it was not only about sex. Trey and Venali went through some tough shit. Both were marked by war; some scars visible, and some deep inside them. It was very tragic to read about how much they had lost. And how difficult it is to move on sometimes.
But all the angst, sorrow, tears... it was worth in the end. Maybe the ending came across as a little insta love but it hasn't felt that way. Yes, I did want more time with them. Hell, even a whole novel wouldn't be enough but I was satisfied at the end and full of happiness with these two lost souls finally finding each other.
***********************************
And now I'm crying. SO BEAUTIFUL!! 💞💞💞
I haven't even finished this series and already thinking about re-reading. I wish I could live in this world *happy daydreaming* Well, maybe not really. I bet I would be eaten by a dragon in the fucking first five minutes lol
Here's to another great BR with my Melanie 🥂 And now, Akiem, here we come!
************************************
Re-read thoughts: I wasn't as biased as I was at my first read, so yeah, I noticed how paper thin the plot is, lol. But even if this novella was simply an excuse for more smut, I still loved it! I just wish that we could see more of Trey and Venali because they deserve a more developed story.
************************************
I didn't know where I could comment about short stories from Ariana's newsletters so I'll just mention them here.
There's one about Junoe going on a hunt with Eroan. Yes, it is as funny as it sounds!
Her fathers! I said in my review for book 2 that Seraph is practically their love child, so thank you, Junoe, for voicing my thoughts.
The recent one was about Eroan and Lysander's encounter in the library, which seems to be very popular for liaisons *cough* Trey *cough*
I'm still laughing because of this one. I think no humor is too dark for Lysander.
“Sometimes walking away is harder than it looks.”
First read: 6 May 2020 ⭐⭐⭐⭐/⭐
Re-read: 18 Aug 2022 ⭐⭐⭐⭐/⭐
As I already said in my update - Ariana Nash must be a sorceress of some kind, otherwise, I can't explain how can she make me feel so much in such a short time for the characters I barely know? Because let me tell you, this made me feel ALL THE FEELS!!! Don't expect some fancy gifs or pretty words this time - I'm going into a complete crazy fangirling mode! (Edit: now with pics but most of them in the spoiler tag because of nsfw art 😉)
I wanted Trey's novella since his appearance in Sealed with a Kiss, where he unexpectedly stole my heart. Tattooed, dark-haired, elven messenger with a dirty mind. Yes, yes, and YES!
He’d always been a lover, not a fighter. A messenger of words and gifts, not death.
When his story turned a tragic route in book 3 (one more reason to hate Nye), I was rooting even more for his HEA. But I didn't realize exactly how much I needed his happy ending until I saw him smile again here. He truly deserved it 💖💖💖
And Venali!!! Sweet fucking diamonds! Where was he hiding the whole series?!? I remember he was mentioned a few times but nothing really memorable. However, his entrance here... Ariana has a special ability to make you fall in love with a character in one single sentence.
An Ashford sentinel emerged from the dark like Alumn had shaped flame into male form and set it free upon the land.
O-M-G! It seems Trey and I have the same type because that was some serious love at first sight going on there. The only difference was that he didn't admit it and I knew better.
Well, hello there, broody and vulnerable.
Hello indeed *grinning* Yes, Venali is a brooding bastard most of the time but the vulnerable part *le sigh* He's actually such a gentle soul. And he has a killer fashion sense. The knee-high boots alone gave me an orgasm or two and that's only one part of his attire. I'll just stop here before I get completely carried away.
“What do you need me for?” Wild, raw sex, my room, right now, Trey imagined.
Wow, the sexual tension was off the charts. I was fanning myself all the time. Either just the two of them or the threesome version, I was ok with everything.
Trey usually preferred the more submissive role, but not for this sentinel. There was no way he was bending for him.
He dug his nails into Venali, holding him, never wanting to let go again. Venali rode him hard, his mouth flirting with a half snarl, the tip of his tongue skimming his lips. It was more than that. Stripped of the Ashford sentinel uniform, he was exposed and vulnerable, and raw, and free, and everything Trey loved about him.
“Fuck,” Trey gasped, “me.”
Venali kissed him hard, his hands tearing at Trey’s clothes, trying to dive inside. “I’m going to fuck you so hard—” he moaned into Trey’s mouth, “—you’ll cry my name as you come.”
But it was not only about sex. Trey and Venali went through some tough shit. Both were marked by war; some scars visible, and some deep inside them. It was very tragic to read about how much they had lost. And how difficult it is to move on sometimes.
“I saw you in battle,” he continued, whispering against Trey’s cheek. “In the blood and chaos, I saw you fight dragons. You are righteous and loyal. You are the best of us.” His wet tongue flicked over Trey’s. “I can’t hold your wandering soul for long, but I’ll take you while I can.”
“The on and off again. Every time you return, I lose my mind over you, and then you leave and it kills me. I can’t survive this—us. I’m not…”He flicked his fingers. “I’m not made that way. I either have you or I don’t. And if I don’t, then fine, but I need to know because every time I lose you…” He choked off his words and thumped his head back against the wall. “Fuck.”His lashes fluttered. “Every time I lose you, I die a little more inside, and there’s so little left…”
But all the angst, sorrow, tears... it was worth in the end. Maybe the ending came across as a little insta love but it hasn't felt that way. Yes, I did want more time with them. Hell, even a whole novel wouldn't be enough but I was satisfied at the end and full of happiness with these two lost souls finally finding each other.
“You’re an asshole.”
“If it helps any, I haven’t been with anyone else since I left.”
The sentinel rolled his eyes. “I have. Many times. Must be every assassin by now.”
A curl of laughter slipped free. “Slut.”
Venali’s chuckles rumbled. “You use the strangest words.”
“I pick them up from each village.”
“I love you,” he whispered, the crowd and club forgotten. “Your messy hair, your worn-out clothes, your roughness, your nonsense words, and the marks you bear for those you’ve lost. I love how you see through me. You make me want tomorrow. Please don’t leave me again.”
***********************************
“Somehow, I found you, with your harem of lovers, your ridiculously stunning clothes, your ruthless pursuit of pleasure, and your prickly exterior hiding a vulnerable heart. And I love you for all those things.”
[...]
“We’ll have to talk about those lovers.”
“Hm,” Venali purred, hands clasped on Trey’s hips, gently rocking. “There are no other lovers and haven’t been for a long time. You carry my heart, messenger. Promise me you’ll keep it safe.”
And now I'm crying. SO BEAUTIFUL!! 💞💞💞
I haven't even finished this series and already thinking about re-reading. I wish I could live in this world *happy daydreaming* Well, maybe not really. I bet I would be eaten by a dragon in the fucking first five minutes lol
Here's to another great BR with my Melanie 🥂 And now, Akiem, here we come!
************************************
Re-read thoughts: I wasn't as biased as I was at my first read, so yeah, I noticed how paper thin the plot is, lol. But even if this novella was simply an excuse for more smut, I still loved it! I just wish that we could see more of Trey and Venali because they deserve a more developed story.
************************************
I didn't know where I could comment about short stories from Ariana's newsletters so I'll just mention them here.
There's one about Junoe going on a hunt with Eroan. Yes, it is as funny as it sounds!
He’d known she was close to Eroan and the dragon prince, but it hadn’t mattered, because Seraph was worth it. But then he’d met her fathers. The dragon had eyed him like Junoe was his next meal, and Eroan like he’d gladly kill Junoe and prepare him for that meal.
Her fathers! I said in my review for book 2 that Seraph is practically their love child, so thank you, Junoe, for voicing my thoughts.
The recent one was about Eroan and Lysander's encounter in the library, which seems to be very popular for liaisons *cough* Trey *cough*
“I fear I didn’t think this through…” Eroan whispered. The words stroked the corner of Lysander’s mouth, demanding he turn and seal the promised kiss.“You mean you lured a dragon into a room with one exit and dared him to stalk you?”
“Hm… something like that.”
I'm still laughing because of this one. I think no humor is too dark for Lysander.
“Everything is fine, Alador. I was just—”
Lysander emerged from behind the shelves. He never had been very good at following orders.
“—showing Lysander the library.” Eroan plucked a random book from the shelf and handed it over his shoulder.
Lysander took it, frowned at the title, shrugged, and lifted it for Alador to see. “Cooking Elves,” he beamed.
“Cooking for Elves,” Eroan corrected.
“Right. That.”
May 29, 2020
Silk & Steel series
Book 0.5 - Sealed With A Kiss
Book 1 - Silk & Steel
Book 2 - Iron & Fire
Book 3 - Blood & Ice
Book 3.5 - Lost & Found
Book 4 - The Black Prince
4 ‘don’t break my heart’ ✨
Well, hello there, broody and vulnerable.
I’m convinced that Ariana Nash is magic. Not that she has magic, but she is magic. How does she manage to make me feel all the emotions in this *very* short novella? How does she squeeze in such beautifully written layered characters, explosive chemistry between them, and a suspenseful plot in this novella? By weaving magic into the writing, of course!
Shit, Trey didn’t believe in all that first sight bullshit, but Venali’s sudden, unblinking eyes locking on him delivered a breathless jolt of lust, making him reveal way too much with a gasp.
Trey, messenger turned Order assassin turned messenger again, in on his way to Ashford, the largest elven settlement, when he is ruthlessly attacked by a couple of rouge bandits. He tries to fight them off, but struggles. Enter Sentinel Venali, a fierce fighter and assassin, who stumbles along this encounter and saves Trey. But they get off on the wrong foot due to clashing perspectives.
All the bluster and ego, it was an act, one he wore every night for everyone else, so they saw it was possible to survive, to keep moving forward, but inside, Venali was lost.
When they meet again in a party like gathering, a spark of lust ignites between them and sets off their blazing hot sexual relationship that later turns into much more. But they can’t get caught up in their whirlwind lust as there is a killer on the loose targeting Order assassins. These circumstances bring Trey and Venali even closer and gives them a chance to get to know each other.
“…Every time you return, I lose my mind over you, and then you leave and it kills me…Every time I lose you, I die a little more inside, and there’s so little left…
Overall, this was a great addition to Silk & Steel series! I loved reading Trey’s book and discovering how he got his closure that was blatantly missing at the end of the original preceding trilogy. The chemistry between Trey and Venali was 🔥 and I was still able to connect with Venali despite meeting him for the first time in this novella. As always, the writing was impeccable in this sizzling novella! Onto the next ❤
“You carry my heart, messenger. Promise me you’ll keep it safe.”
Book 0.5 - Sealed With A Kiss
Book 1 - Silk & Steel
Book 2 - Iron & Fire
Book 3 - Blood & Ice
Book 3.5 - Lost & Found
Book 4 - The Black Prince
4 ‘don’t break my heart’ ✨
Well, hello there, broody and vulnerable.
I’m convinced that Ariana Nash is magic. Not that she has magic, but she is magic. How does she manage to make me feel all the emotions in this *very* short novella? How does she squeeze in such beautifully written layered characters, explosive chemistry between them, and a suspenseful plot in this novella? By weaving magic into the writing, of course!
Shit, Trey didn’t believe in all that first sight bullshit, but Venali’s sudden, unblinking eyes locking on him delivered a breathless jolt of lust, making him reveal way too much with a gasp.
Trey, messenger turned Order assassin turned messenger again, in on his way to Ashford, the largest elven settlement, when he is ruthlessly attacked by a couple of rouge bandits. He tries to fight them off, but struggles. Enter Sentinel Venali, a fierce fighter and assassin, who stumbles along this encounter and saves Trey. But they get off on the wrong foot due to clashing perspectives.
All the bluster and ego, it was an act, one he wore every night for everyone else, so they saw it was possible to survive, to keep moving forward, but inside, Venali was lost.
When they meet again in a party like gathering, a spark of lust ignites between them and sets off their blazing hot sexual relationship that later turns into much more. But they can’t get caught up in their whirlwind lust as there is a killer on the loose targeting Order assassins. These circumstances bring Trey and Venali even closer and gives them a chance to get to know each other.
“…Every time you return, I lose my mind over you, and then you leave and it kills me…Every time I lose you, I die a little more inside, and there’s so little left…
Overall, this was a great addition to Silk & Steel series! I loved reading Trey’s book and discovering how he got his closure that was blatantly missing at the end of the original preceding trilogy. The chemistry between Trey and Venali was 🔥 and I was still able to connect with Venali despite meeting him for the first time in this novella. As always, the writing was impeccable in this sizzling novella! Onto the next ❤
“You carry my heart, messenger. Promise me you’ll keep it safe.”
May 19, 2020
3.75 STARS!
Trigger warnings:
Plot in a nutshell: Members of the Order are feeling distinctly at loose ends now that a detente has been called in the fighting.
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND this series!
"You make me want tomorrow."A great addition to the series! I'm so grateful to MONIQUE for asking me to read these books with her. Thanks for another great buddy read! 🥰
Trigger warnings:
Plot in a nutshell: Members of the Order are feeling distinctly at loose ends now that a detente has been called in the fighting.
There were no more monsters to fight, not outside.Without a purpose, they struggle to adapt to civilian life, Trey and Venali among them.
This is what being lost felt like. Like falling, with nobody there to catch you.So, yes! It's true this book is wonderfully smutty. Trey and Venali's physical relationship was the star of the show for the most part, but their inner struggles tugged at my heartstrings as well. And when they finally gave in to their emotions, it was wholly satisfying.
"Every time I lose you, I die a little more inside, and there's so little left..."However, it's also true that this one suffers from novella-itis . . . Lost & Found should have been made into a full-length novel, dammit! I'm greedy like that and this author is just THAT good.
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND this series!
![Profile Image for moonlight ☾ [semi-hiatus].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1645500038i%2F37448930._UX200_CR0%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
June 5, 2022
"Rumor is you have a lover in every village. You leave a flower on their pillows."
He really had been asking around. Trey hadn't done that in years, but it was true, all of it.
"You've never left me a flower, darling," Venali murmured against Trey's cheek. "After you leave tomorrow, will you go back to those beds?"
Trey tilted his head up, relishing the feel of Venali's smooth chin brushing his cheek. "Would you care?"
"If I said yes," he growled, his fingers claiming Trey's hip, "would you stay longer?"
how can you introduce a layered, complex character such as Venali and not give him a full length book? 😭 i loved his dynamic with Trey and wished these two had a whole story, not just a novella :(
He really had been asking around. Trey hadn't done that in years, but it was true, all of it.
"You've never left me a flower, darling," Venali murmured against Trey's cheek. "After you leave tomorrow, will you go back to those beds?"
Trey tilted his head up, relishing the feel of Venali's smooth chin brushing his cheek. "Would you care?"
"If I said yes," he growled, his fingers claiming Trey's hip, "would you stay longer?"
how can you introduce a layered, complex character such as Venali and not give him a full length book? 😭 i loved his dynamic with Trey and wished these two had a whole story, not just a novella :(
August 19, 2024
3.5 stars
Trey was not my favorite character in the Silk & Steel trilogy (because let's be serious, who could compete against Lysander and Eroan?), so I admit that I was not suuuper excited to read this novella. I am on a mission to read every book written by Ariana Nash though so I figured that I might as well read this novella before moving on to The Black Prince.
Trey has gone back to his life on the road as a messenger and is fine with being a wanderer until his path crosses Venali's, a sentinel residing in Ashford. There is an instant physical attraction between them, and more than that, Venali asks Trey to help him figure out why assassins from the order have committed suicide lately, and if these deaths really are suicides.
Venali was mentioned in the trilogy (at least I'm pretty sure he is...?), but we didn't have much information on him so it was nice to get to know him more, especially since he seems to be the kind of character that I love, but the novella was too short for me to really fell in love with him. I did enjoy reading about him though and would love to see more of him.
Honestly, this novella feels more like an excuse to read smut and steamy threesome scenes. There is intrigue, but it is not really linked to the trilogy, and I really don't think that it will be mentioned again in The Black Prince. Still, it's a quick and hot read, and I'm pretty sure you will enjoy it if you enjoyed previous works from this author.
0.5 Sealed with a Kiss ⭐⭐⭐.5
1. Silk & Steel ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
2. Iron & Fire ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
3. Blood & Ice ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
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Trey was not my favorite character in the Silk & Steel trilogy (because let's be serious, who could compete against Lysander and Eroan?), so I admit that I was not suuuper excited to read this novella. I am on a mission to read every book written by Ariana Nash though so I figured that I might as well read this novella before moving on to The Black Prince.
Trey has gone back to his life on the road as a messenger and is fine with being a wanderer until his path crosses Venali's, a sentinel residing in Ashford. There is an instant physical attraction between them, and more than that, Venali asks Trey to help him figure out why assassins from the order have committed suicide lately, and if these deaths really are suicides.
Venali was mentioned in the trilogy (at least I'm pretty sure he is...?), but we didn't have much information on him so it was nice to get to know him more, especially since he seems to be the kind of character that I love, but the novella was too short for me to really fell in love with him. I did enjoy reading about him though and would love to see more of him.
Honestly, this novella feels more like an excuse to read smut and steamy threesome scenes. There is intrigue, but it is not really linked to the trilogy, and I really don't think that it will be mentioned again in The Black Prince. Still, it's a quick and hot read, and I'm pretty sure you will enjoy it if you enjoyed previous works from this author.
0.5 Sealed with a Kiss ⭐⭐⭐.5
1. Silk & Steel ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
2. Iron & Fire ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
3. Blood & Ice ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
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April 20, 2020
I am pleasantly surprised by the numerous sex scenes (nicely written) in this little novella. Unhappily, why did the author have to squeeze so much in here vs. very few in the main series???
Anyway, for a novella, it packs a punch. Fully encapsulated story with a murder, intrigue and lots of sex.
The reason this is a 4 star is that I didn't get the "falling in love" part of the MCs. There's attraction and chemistry, sure, but the love was tenuous. I felt like somewhere I blinked and missed that whole part. And yet we're supposed to believe that Trey changed his entire approach to life and stayed with Venali because of undying true love. I don't even know when Venali fell in love with Trey, just know that they enjoyed a couple of hot threesomes.
Soooo... either don't stretch the reader's imagination with the whole love thing, or explain it in more depth.
Also found quite a few typos. And don't get me started on lay vs. lie grammar issue.
Still, it was a good read.
Anyway, for a novella, it packs a punch. Fully encapsulated story with a murder, intrigue and lots of sex.
The reason this is a 4 star is that I didn't get the "falling in love" part of the MCs. There's attraction and chemistry, sure, but the love was tenuous. I felt like somewhere I blinked and missed that whole part. And yet we're supposed to believe that Trey changed his entire approach to life and stayed with Venali because of undying true love. I don't even know when Venali fell in love with Trey, just know that they enjoyed a couple of hot threesomes.
Soooo... either don't stretch the reader's imagination with the whole love thing, or explain it in more depth.
Also found quite a few typos. And don't get me started on lay vs. lie grammar issue.
Still, it was a good read.
December 10, 2022
After the trilogy Silk&Steel finished I was thrilled to see there is a novella about Trey. He is such a character; his presence always calming and his shoulder always waiting to be leand upon.
He’d always been a lover, not a fighter. A messenger of words and gifts, not death.
Few time had passed of the great battles and there were no more dragons to fight leaving Order assassins trying to adapt to normal living.
But nothing of the Order could ever be forgotten. It was all inside, carried with him every day.
War was not easy. The time after the war neither. Especially to those who were in the first row to see all the atrocities.
“How can I tell them to look to the future when I cannot see tomorrow?”
Sentinel Venali is looked upon as a leader of sentinels and Order assassins in Ashford. Harsh exterior, dark and brooding, ...
“Sentinels do not forgo their duties to fuck messengers.”
and extremely guarded soft wounded heart inside.
“Every time I lose you, I die a little more inside, and there’s so little left…”
Both wounded, both lost, both struggling to find an anchor in the storm called life.
This was what being lost felt like. Like falling, with nobody there to catch you.
Their relationship was building in a slow pace, every time they'd met becoming something more.
“I can’t hold your wandering soul for long, but I’ll take you while I can.”
My heart was aching for every single one of Order assassins. Trey and Venali got a specail place in my heart. They are my favourite couple. So sweet and caring, so vulnerable and yet so strong. I feel honoured to be able to see their story.
“You carry my heart, messenger. Promise me you’ll keep it safe.”❤️💕💖
He’d always been a lover, not a fighter. A messenger of words and gifts, not death.
Few time had passed of the great battles and there were no more dragons to fight leaving Order assassins trying to adapt to normal living.
But nothing of the Order could ever be forgotten. It was all inside, carried with him every day.
War was not easy. The time after the war neither. Especially to those who were in the first row to see all the atrocities.
“How can I tell them to look to the future when I cannot see tomorrow?”
Sentinel Venali is looked upon as a leader of sentinels and Order assassins in Ashford. Harsh exterior, dark and brooding, ...
“Sentinels do not forgo their duties to fuck messengers.”
and extremely guarded soft wounded heart inside.
“Every time I lose you, I die a little more inside, and there’s so little left…”
Both wounded, both lost, both struggling to find an anchor in the storm called life.
This was what being lost felt like. Like falling, with nobody there to catch you.
Their relationship was building in a slow pace, every time they'd met becoming something more.
“I can’t hold your wandering soul for long, but I’ll take you while I can.”
My heart was aching for every single one of Order assassins. Trey and Venali got a specail place in my heart. They are my favourite couple. So sweet and caring, so vulnerable and yet so strong. I feel honoured to be able to see their story.
“You carry my heart, messenger. Promise me you’ll keep it safe.”❤️💕💖
September 16, 2020
To be honest, after the brilliant storytelling of the main series, I found Lost & Found to be rather disjointed and unsatisfying. The author seemed to try to pack too much into too little of space, like trying to fit 10 pounds of flour in a 5 pound bag and the result was a mess of a story that didn't really fit, so I guess the story development had to go.
The story is of some former Order members in Ashford dying, apparently by suicide, interspersed with sex scenes between Trey, Venali, and sometimes an elf named Connor. Sexy, right? Unfortunately, not so much. I enjoy reading menage scenes, generally, but here, I felt nothing. Connor never seemed to actually fit in the story at all, in or outside the sex scenes; he was just a one-dimensional prop there to move the story along, and the chemistry, while there, was weak between Venali and Trey. Even the "ah-ha" moment was shrug-worthy.
Lost & Found was over half done before Trey and Venali even have a proper conversation. I needed more time to get to know Trey and Venali, and I felt they needed more time to get to know each other but I didn't get that, and neither did they in the confines of the story. The "L" word was used way too soon and it didn't seem real.
If Lost & Found would have been a sexy short like Sealed with a Kiss, I would have been more satisfied, I think, but the vehicle that was used to give Trey a meaningful HEA in 120 pages fell short and felt forced. I hoped for more for Trey.
Disappointing.
The story is of some former Order members in Ashford dying, apparently by suicide, interspersed with sex scenes between Trey, Venali, and sometimes an elf named Connor. Sexy, right? Unfortunately, not so much. I enjoy reading menage scenes, generally, but here, I felt nothing. Connor never seemed to actually fit in the story at all, in or outside the sex scenes; he was just a one-dimensional prop there to move the story along, and the chemistry, while there, was weak between Venali and Trey. Even the "ah-ha" moment was shrug-worthy.
Lost & Found was over half done before Trey and Venali even have a proper conversation. I needed more time to get to know Trey and Venali, and I felt they needed more time to get to know each other but I didn't get that, and neither did they in the confines of the story. The "L" word was used way too soon and it didn't seem real.
If Lost & Found would have been a sexy short like Sealed with a Kiss, I would have been more satisfied, I think, but the vehicle that was used to give Trey a meaningful HEA in 120 pages fell short and felt forced. I hoped for more for Trey.
Disappointing.
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April 27, 2020
4✨
It tugged at my heartstrings that Nash needed to give Trey a proper ending to his story. I didn't think of Trey as a character who needed his own ending, but damn. I was wrong.
The novella of approximately 122 pages follows Trey as he comes back to Ashford, delivering gifts and letters and food. He went back to being a Messenger instead of an assassin. But having fought for the Order, he gets invited to an after dark party, where he meets an elf named Conor and gets closer with Sentinel Venali, who sees more than he lets on.
There was steamy sex, but also scenes that tugged at your heartstrings. And the anxiety of
Now I just need a Seraph novella and I can die a happy death.
It tugged at my heartstrings that Nash needed to give Trey a proper ending to his story. I didn't think of Trey as a character who needed his own ending, but damn. I was wrong.
The novella of approximately 122 pages follows Trey as he comes back to Ashford, delivering gifts and letters and food. He went back to being a Messenger instead of an assassin. But having fought for the Order, he gets invited to an after dark party, where he meets an elf named Conor and gets closer with Sentinel Venali, who sees more than he lets on.
There was steamy sex, but also scenes that tugged at your heartstrings. And the anxiety of
Now I just need a Seraph novella and I can die a happy death.
December 14, 2019
I highly recommend avoiding this novella until after you've read the Silk & Steel trilogy (Silk & Steel, Iron & Fire, Blood & Ice) because it does contain spoilers for the main story arc. However, once you've read that trilogy you really don't want to miss the chance to see Trey get his much earned happily ever after!
I've loved Trey since his first appearance in the prequel Sealed with a Kiss and his character has been brilliant throughout the series so I was really happy when Ariana Nash announced that she was giving him his own story. This is all about the Order Assassins and how a lot of them are struggling to find a new purpose for their lives now that the war is over and the elves and dragons are at peace. They've all watched friends and family members die, they've seen and done terrible things and now they've got to try and come to terms with that and figure out a way to move forward. It's not easy though and an increasing number of suicides amongst their number is starting to raise suspicion.
I don't remember much of Venali from the main series but he turned out to be an exceptional match for Trent. The two of them heat up the pages like nothing else and I think this might even be the hottest instalment in the series (which is really saying something to anyone who has read the other books!). Although their connection starts out with the physical I really enjoyed seeing the emotional connection build as they spent more time together. Throwing in the mystery of what is happening with members of the order and I flew through this novella. This story is highly recommended to fans of the Silk & Steel series and I just can't wait to see what Ariana Nash comes up with next.
I've loved Trey since his first appearance in the prequel Sealed with a Kiss and his character has been brilliant throughout the series so I was really happy when Ariana Nash announced that she was giving him his own story. This is all about the Order Assassins and how a lot of them are struggling to find a new purpose for their lives now that the war is over and the elves and dragons are at peace. They've all watched friends and family members die, they've seen and done terrible things and now they've got to try and come to terms with that and figure out a way to move forward. It's not easy though and an increasing number of suicides amongst their number is starting to raise suspicion.
I don't remember much of Venali from the main series but he turned out to be an exceptional match for Trent. The two of them heat up the pages like nothing else and I think this might even be the hottest instalment in the series (which is really saying something to anyone who has read the other books!). Although their connection starts out with the physical I really enjoyed seeing the emotional connection build as they spent more time together. Throwing in the mystery of what is happening with members of the order and I flew through this novella. This story is highly recommended to fans of the Silk & Steel series and I just can't wait to see what Ariana Nash comes up with next.
June 29, 2021
”I'm prepared for everything", he said, his voice low and broken. 'But not for you. Never for you".
I still miss Eroan and Lysander, but enjoyed this (waaaaay too short!) trip back to the world of Silk & Steel, to catch up on Trey and Venali's story.
It was dark in parts, but still five fab stars from me.
Can't wait for Ariana Nash to write and release her next two series next year!
Recommended.
✨✨✨✨✨
I still miss Eroan and Lysander, but enjoyed this (waaaaay too short!) trip back to the world of Silk & Steel, to catch up on Trey and Venali's story.
It was dark in parts, but still five fab stars from me.
Can't wait for Ariana Nash to write and release her next two series next year!
Recommended.
✨✨✨✨✨
December 7, 2023
3.5
“I’ve seen a great many things in all my years and I know better that most that some of us are better equipped to deal with change than others. You’re one of those who adjust. You’ve seen tragedy, as have we all, but it has not eroded your light”.
Gracias, Ariana Nash. Necesitaba que le dieses un final a este señor y no puedo estar más que contenta con el resultado. Sí, señor. Se lo merecía, meneño.
“Just that…some of us need a steadying hand before we steer ourselves into darkness”.
Es un poco triste decir esto, pero este relato de 130 páginas me ha gustado más que la trilogía principal, además que en tan pocas páginas la autora consigue desarrollar bastante bien a los personajes.
“How can I tell them to look to the future when I cannot see tomorrow?”
En conclusión, me ha calentado el corazón y me alegro que todo le vaya bien.
“You’re lost”.
“I’ve seen a great many things in all my years and I know better that most that some of us are better equipped to deal with change than others. You’re one of those who adjust. You’ve seen tragedy, as have we all, but it has not eroded your light”.
Gracias, Ariana Nash. Necesitaba que le dieses un final a este señor y no puedo estar más que contenta con el resultado. Sí, señor. Se lo merecía, meneño.
“Just that…some of us need a steadying hand before we steer ourselves into darkness”.
Es un poco triste decir esto, pero este relato de 130 páginas me ha gustado más que la trilogía principal, además que en tan pocas páginas la autora consigue desarrollar bastante bien a los personajes.
“How can I tell them to look to the future when I cannot see tomorrow?”
En conclusión, me ha calentado el corazón y me alegro que todo le vaya bien.
“You’re lost”.
March 4, 2021
Broken hearts
The Silk and Steel series was my favourite read of 2020. This novella covers the loss of purpose felt by members of the Order after the war. I got the warm feeling of "coming home" reading this story, even with the absence of dragons :)
The Silk and Steel series was my favourite read of 2020. This novella covers the loss of purpose felt by members of the Order after the war. I got the warm feeling of "coming home" reading this story, even with the absence of dragons :)
December 14, 2019
Trey!!! I loved him from the moment he showed up way back when in the very first story set I the Silk&Steel world. And if someone deserved a HEA, it's definitely Trey.
The story starts slow and for a while it banked on the nostalgia after the end of the trilogy. But soon Bengali shows up and things kick into high gear. It suffices to say I adored the two bickering idiots. And while generally I dislike drama, those two pulled it off.
So if you liked Silk&Steel go grab this short repreve from the withdrawal we're all suffering from.
The story starts slow and for a while it banked on the nostalgia after the end of the trilogy. But soon Bengali shows up and things kick into high gear. It suffices to say I adored the two bickering idiots. And while generally I dislike drama, those two pulled it off.
So if you liked Silk&Steel go grab this short repreve from the withdrawal we're all suffering from.
August 1, 2020
2.5/5 - I just didn’t feel super attached to these characters, and while the beginning was a tad uneventful I did really enjoy the ending and getting to see a bit of the trilogy’s aftermath.
December 7, 2019
A century old war is over, the dragon occupation is broken and their dark rule isn't anymore. Elven society thrives again and even their strain relationship with the humans is on the right track. So everything is golden? After a lifetime of danger? After growing up into the role of an assassin and knowing nothing than living to be a warrior and fighting dragons, in your mind still seeing your villages burned and your loved ones tortured even without having to close your eyes? Not very likely to find your way into the new life. Without your old enemy and your purpose in life you might like to look for new enemies, new thrills, new ways to use your skills even if that means to turn against other elves, marauding in the vast and empty order-free space between the few cities.
In that kind of danger we find Trey at the start of that book. He's back in his original job as a messenger which suits his restless soul still better than being a member of the order and short before Ashford he's attacked by bandits and his life is only saved with the help of Venali, a haughty, self-centered but gorgeous elven sentinel. Later in the city their dance around each other is starting. It isn't love at first sight, can't be between an arrogant prick and a quite normal, down-to-earth elf, can it? Their sexual heat ignites only ever in a triangle with Connor but only simmers in the time between. Venali is a attention slut and charismatic leader while Trey is just a messenger, nothing special or maybe not? The triangle with Connor is a complicated mess or just convenient or maybe something different?
The author is playing with a distorting mirror, she isn't going dark like in the previous parts of the series but she's far away from light. There surely will be some readers who won't like Venali's choice of coping but like with all her main characters you have to look deeper to get them and she invites you to do that, invites you to see them and love them anyway. Even loyal, elf-next-door Trey isn't that down-to-earth. How could he with a lover like Nye in his past. I really enjoyed this after the war view on Eroan's world without Eroan and Lysander and I'm glad Ariana Nash allowed Trey his plausible and well earned HEA. Some scars will always stay and some histories repeat in the oddest ways but sometime love gets to you anyway and you find someone you can rely on, who makes your life worth living again. So while the story in some parts could have used a more detailed view, more time for character growth and I'm feeling a little deprived from not knowing about the time Trey is spending between his Ashford visits it was a pleasure to be be back in that world even for that little time Nash allowed.
In that kind of danger we find Trey at the start of that book. He's back in his original job as a messenger which suits his restless soul still better than being a member of the order and short before Ashford he's attacked by bandits and his life is only saved with the help of Venali, a haughty, self-centered but gorgeous elven sentinel. Later in the city their dance around each other is starting. It isn't love at first sight, can't be between an arrogant prick and a quite normal, down-to-earth elf, can it? Their sexual heat ignites only ever in a triangle with Connor but only simmers in the time between. Venali is a attention slut and charismatic leader while Trey is just a messenger, nothing special or maybe not? The triangle with Connor is a complicated mess or just convenient or maybe something different?
The author is playing with a distorting mirror, she isn't going dark like in the previous parts of the series but she's far away from light. There surely will be some readers who won't like Venali's choice of coping but like with all her main characters you have to look deeper to get them and she invites you to do that, invites you to see them and love them anyway. Even loyal, elf-next-door Trey isn't that down-to-earth. How could he with a lover like Nye in his past. I really enjoyed this after the war view on Eroan's world without Eroan and Lysander and I'm glad Ariana Nash allowed Trey his plausible and well earned HEA. Some scars will always stay and some histories repeat in the oddest ways but sometime love gets to you anyway and you find someone you can rely on, who makes your life worth living again. So while the story in some parts could have used a more detailed view, more time for character growth and I'm feeling a little deprived from not knowing about the time Trey is spending between his Ashford visits it was a pleasure to be be back in that world even for that little time Nash allowed.
July 11, 2022
Trey’s story was beautiful like the character he portrayed. I’m happy he found love with Venali, and a glimpse of everyone after that last book, just perfect.
November 30, 2019
Lost and Found
A sexy dark story full of love, jealousy and second chances. I really enjoyed reading Trey’s journey and watching him discover himself in the mist of a new world. It’s gritty and dark yet hopeful and heart warming!
A sexy dark story full of love, jealousy and second chances. I really enjoyed reading Trey’s journey and watching him discover himself in the mist of a new world. It’s gritty and dark yet hopeful and heart warming!
January 24, 2023
I'm glad we got to see Trey get his own story. Granted, to me it felt a bit rushed due to how short the length is and how physical Trey and Valeri were together, but it was good.
December 1, 2019
I have been a fan of this author for years now. I do admit that romance is not my favorite genre, but since I am a fan, I will read practically anything this author writes. This was a fantastic novella. Trey was a great character from her other series, and I was so glad that he got his HEA. Venali is both tough and vulnerable, and Trey and he are a perfect couple. Of course, the path to true love is never easy, and their path certainly wasn’t. Throw in a good mystery and some very hot, steamy scenes and you have this great novella. Highly recommend. I was provided a copy which I voluntarily reviewed.
January 2, 2022
What a lovely ending for Trey, who has been a wonderful side character through out the series. And hey! No sexual assault scenes! Yay!
November 29, 2019
This novella is a must read if you have read and loved the Silk & Steel series but you have to have read book 3 first as there will be spoilers. Glad to have more of Trey as he was an interesting character
December 17, 2019
No dragons this time but plenty of HAWT elves
Trey, our hero, was only meant to be a small 'throw away' character in Sealed With A Kiss , a way to introduce us to the brooding goodness that is Eroan. However he wasn't content to be a brief blip on the horizon, but pushed himself into the other Silk & Steel books, where he had an ill fated affair with the tragic and misguided, some would maybe say evil, Nye. Now we get to see his story, because this messenger needs to find his peace and his place in life. Unlike many novella's this is a full story, in fact I'd go so far as to argue it's a short novel.
I've read all the other books, so I can't objectively say if you can read this as a stand alone. However it DOES contain spoilers for the main Silk & Steel series (which aren't stand alone books). What I can tell you is that Trey is every inch the deeply caring man we saw previously, but he has been burnt by life and is understandably cautious. Venali is all brooding darkness, sharp edges and sleek clothing, a mask to hide the truth that here is a deeply troubled Sentinel.
Written third person, and entirely from Trey's viewpoint, I still felt that we got to know Venali well. This pair have an immensely intense connection, one that generates enough heat to melt the ice caps. However this is Ariana Nash, so you just know the course of true love will just not run smoothly. If there is any HEA to be had, the main characters will need to be dragged there, kicking, yelling and protesting the entire way. There will also be bad people trying to stand in their path. This all leads to one heck of a fast paced, emotion packed and twisty read.
The only negative thing about this book is it means saying goodbye to this world and it's rag-tag mix of elves, humans and dragons. A world I just am not ready to step away from yet.
Trey, our hero, was only meant to be a small 'throw away' character in Sealed With A Kiss , a way to introduce us to the brooding goodness that is Eroan. However he wasn't content to be a brief blip on the horizon, but pushed himself into the other Silk & Steel books, where he had an ill fated affair with the tragic and misguided, some would maybe say evil, Nye. Now we get to see his story, because this messenger needs to find his peace and his place in life. Unlike many novella's this is a full story, in fact I'd go so far as to argue it's a short novel.
I've read all the other books, so I can't objectively say if you can read this as a stand alone. However it DOES contain spoilers for the main Silk & Steel series (which aren't stand alone books). What I can tell you is that Trey is every inch the deeply caring man we saw previously, but he has been burnt by life and is understandably cautious. Venali is all brooding darkness, sharp edges and sleek clothing, a mask to hide the truth that here is a deeply troubled Sentinel.
Written third person, and entirely from Trey's viewpoint, I still felt that we got to know Venali well. This pair have an immensely intense connection, one that generates enough heat to melt the ice caps. However this is Ariana Nash, so you just know the course of true love will just not run smoothly. If there is any HEA to be had, the main characters will need to be dragged there, kicking, yelling and protesting the entire way. There will also be bad people trying to stand in their path. This all leads to one heck of a fast paced, emotion packed and twisty read.
The only negative thing about this book is it means saying goodbye to this world and it's rag-tag mix of elves, humans and dragons. A world I just am not ready to step away from yet.
October 8, 2022
Venali's green eyes fixed on Trey's from across the room. Sprawled in a chair, legs spread, Venali smiled and tipped his cup, as though giving them permission to continue their display just for him.
This was a delightfully spicy addition to the Silk and Steel series! I can't even articulate how great a character Venali was. The overall arc of Trey's job as a messenger was just so angsty and wonderful, especially when he returned the last time and the finale unfolded.
Ahh, I hadn't planned on jumping right into The Black Prince but I can't seem to get enough of Ariana Nash!
This was a delightfully spicy addition to the Silk and Steel series! I can't even articulate how great a character Venali was. The overall arc of Trey's job as a messenger was just so angsty and wonderful, especially when he returned the last time and the finale unfolded.
Ahh, I hadn't planned on jumping right into The Black Prince but I can't seem to get enough of Ariana Nash!
March 14, 2021
Short story about Trey the messenger, who is not part of the order assassins anymore and have become a wanderer. It seems that assassins members are taking their own life, finding their have no more purpose since the dragons' war is over. Trey cross path with Venali an elf sentinel of Ashford, who already have a lover but seems interested in him.
I personally didn’t feel any love connection between the characters, it was mostly smut and excuse for threesome. Usually, I like smut but here I didn’t care and the side story about and not much interesting. I do not think this book was a necessary addition to the series.
I personally didn’t feel any love connection between the characters, it was mostly smut and excuse for threesome. Usually, I like smut but here I didn’t care and the side story about and not much interesting. I do not think this book was a necessary addition to the series.
June 20, 2021
Ariana Nash writes great story’s. This may be short but it is packed full of greatness. From Elves struggling to move on to peace to A mysterious killer. It’s filled with lust and love and was enjoyable to read, of course I read it in a day.
December 2, 2019
This novella follows the story of Trey, Messenger and Assassin of the Order.
After the fall of the Dragons, life for the Assassins is forever changed, no more Dragons to kill, this is what their life has been from childhood, so for many it is hard to adapt.
If you haven’t read the Silk and Steel trilogy already I urge you to because this one contains some spoilers.
Trey is headed for Ashford as a Messenger carrying gifts and letters,he is set upon by two elves, but saved by the fearless Venali an Ashford sentinel.
BEWARE Very vivid m/m scenes.
Another fantastic story by Arianna Nash, full of murder, betrayal, jealousy and love.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading it,and don’t want this world of hers to end, but alas it has, but there’s always tomorrow and hope for more of Eroa, Lysander and Treys world,
Enjoyable reading.
After the fall of the Dragons, life for the Assassins is forever changed, no more Dragons to kill, this is what their life has been from childhood, so for many it is hard to adapt.
If you haven’t read the Silk and Steel trilogy already I urge you to because this one contains some spoilers.
Trey is headed for Ashford as a Messenger carrying gifts and letters,he is set upon by two elves, but saved by the fearless Venali an Ashford sentinel.
BEWARE Very vivid m/m scenes.
Another fantastic story by Arianna Nash, full of murder, betrayal, jealousy and love.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading it,and don’t want this world of hers to end, but alas it has, but there’s always tomorrow and hope for more of Eroa, Lysander and Treys world,
Enjoyable reading.
December 2, 2019
I didn’t think that this book sounded all that great from the blurb, but I love the author and the series so when I got the ARC I dove in.
I couldn’t be more excited to add this to my favorites shelf!!
This was full of hot, hot, hot steamy, brooding elven assassin love.
It has an enemy to lover vibe, a murder mystery, and a good and believable love story which is hard to find in a novella.
On top of all that, I love the high fantasy setting and story line.
I could not put it down.
If you love Jex Lane, vampires, dragons, elves, mm romance, fantasy or enemies to lovers then you will enjoy this book.
I couldn’t be more excited to add this to my favorites shelf!!
This was full of hot, hot, hot steamy, brooding elven assassin love.
It has an enemy to lover vibe, a murder mystery, and a good and believable love story which is hard to find in a novella.
On top of all that, I love the high fantasy setting and story line.
I could not put it down.
If you love Jex Lane, vampires, dragons, elves, mm romance, fantasy or enemies to lovers then you will enjoy this book.
December 1, 2019
OMG I love Venali. I thought Trey was pretty hot, but Venali, oh my my. Such a strong and vulnerable character. The bigger they are the harder they fall, is apparently a true enough statement. This was an excellent novella. I liked it better than The Black Prince, a full length novel. You must read Sealed with a Kiss, and the Silk & Steel trilogy before reading this, or there are certain aspects that will be spoiled and/or not understood. It’s worth it.
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