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The Cardinal Winds #1
Steel Rose
The commander of the East Wind Dominion is a terrifying man. He leads an army of automatons. He can control lightning itself. And now, Rose Calder is his prisoner of war.
All Rose has ever known is fighting. When the invading forces of the East Wind Dominion take away her friends, her family, and her home, she takes to the skies to battle for her freedom. For hope.
When the war comes to a sudden end at the hands of commander Viktor Lang, she is certain that she is about to die. When he discovers her impossible secret, she becomes a mystery that he is desperate to solve and that may be worse.
The war may be over, but now she stands to lose much, much more.
_____________
Authors Note: "Steel Rose" is what I consider to be a villain romance. My male characters are often not very kind or gentle. This story has a HEA, but it may be a tough ride getting there. This story has mature themes and content.
All Rose has ever known is fighting. When the invading forces of the East Wind Dominion take away her friends, her family, and her home, she takes to the skies to battle for her freedom. For hope.
When the war comes to a sudden end at the hands of commander Viktor Lang, she is certain that she is about to die. When he discovers her impossible secret, she becomes a mystery that he is desperate to solve and that may be worse.
The war may be over, but now she stands to lose much, much more.
_____________
Authors Note: "Steel Rose" is what I consider to be a villain romance. My male characters are often not very kind or gentle. This story has a HEA, but it may be a tough ride getting there. This story has mature themes and content.
438 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 19, 2020
147 people are currently reading
1107 people want to read
About the author
Kathryn Ann Kingsley
67 books2,470 followersKathryn has always been a storyteller. Years of scriptwriting for performances on stage and for tourism in Boston led her to writing romantically dark, fantastical tales, which was an obsession of hers that began once seeing The Phantom of the Opera at a young age.
When she isn’t penning new villainous leads, she works in video game development. There, she has been everything from Creative Director to Chief of Staff, Design Manager, Executive Producer, and Principal Writer for various companies in the industry.
She shares her antique home with three very fluffy animals and one very patient and loving husband.
When she isn’t penning new villainous leads, she works in video game development. There, she has been everything from Creative Director to Chief of Staff, Design Manager, Executive Producer, and Principal Writer for various companies in the industry.
She shares her antique home with three very fluffy animals and one very patient and loving husband.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 103 reviews
June 1, 2020
This was so imaginative and unusual Rose is a fighter pilot for the rebel faction opposing the Dominion her base is currently the last stand.
When they are finally brought down by the East Wind Dominion signalling the end of the war and current hostilities Rose finds herself a prisoner of the cardinal himself.
So I really liked Victor a lot he was such a complex individual.
I greatly appreciate how this author always manages to create complex and imperfect characters and then somehow makes me fall head over heels in love with them.
Victor likes control in all his endeavours
Rose threatens that authority and her chaos unleashes in him a need to dominate her that is totally out of character for him.
His usual sombre inflexible outward persona is totally jeopardised when it comes to her.
Victor is rather eccentric a tad strange and a total individual and though he originally comes across as cold cruel and stern buried underneath this there runs a vein of kindness and passion just waiting to be unleashed and explored further.
He has such high ideals and holds himself to lofty standards.
Rose, I liked her ability to adapt to the situation and the fact that though she is led by her emotions she doesn’t let them consume her clouding her judgement.
She is logical and willing to listen keeping herself open to change.
She is also not too proud to admit when She’s wrong.
She was a curious mix of naivety and pragmatism, both a fighter and a peacekeeper.
She also has a very healthy sense of preservation that I admired.
I liked that they both had outward flaws Rose with her prosthetic arm and Victor with his scars limp and cane.
This was slow-burn expertly building the tension and when it finally erupted it was combustible.
Victor was an untapped powerhouse of surprises when he finally released the reins and just went with his instincts it was explosive and Rose finds herself craving his dominant and passionate attentions.
Which are a complete contrast to his usual calm and staid outward presence that he presents to the world at large.
This also has some fantastic side-characters loved Otto and adored Rose’s robot friend Bub he was a right bloody card.
There’s some hard choices and new alliances to be made as Rose has to decide what’s most important to her.
This really was a fabulous read and I’m so looking forward to reading Nero’s story next.
Liked this one a lot it was fabulous and very unusual.
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
www.beckiebookworm.com
December 8, 2021
A 3.5* that could/should have been a 4*.
The story, the world building are definitely intriguing, the general plot-line more than acceptable but there's a failure at some level - in characterization, in behavior, in logic and I'm not a person given to suspending disbelief (especially if something nags too bad).
World Basics - This world/Dominion (Europe it seems) has been divided into four areas called Winds (North, East, West and South) that are run by Cardinals (our Hs), each the supreme power in their own areas/Winds.
Viktor, the stoic and ingenious East Wind.
Nero, the fiery and seductive South Wind.
Hugo, the monstrous and tragic West Wind,
And Morten, the cold and cruel North Wind. (From the author's website)
All four have a particular superpower.
The story, the world building are definitely intriguing, the general plot-line more than acceptable but there's a failure at some level - in characterization, in behavior, in logic and I'm not a person given to suspending disbelief (especially if something nags too bad).
World Basics - This world/Dominion (Europe it seems) has been divided into four areas called Winds (North, East, West and South) that are run by Cardinals (our Hs), each the supreme power in their own areas/Winds.
Viktor, the stoic and ingenious East Wind.
Nero, the fiery and seductive South Wind.
Hugo, the monstrous and tragic West Wind,
And Morten, the cold and cruel North Wind. (From the author's website)
All four have a particular superpower.
December 21, 2021
Rose is a fighter. She’s fought most of her life against the East Wind Dominion. When she lost her arm and family to the war, she found ways to overcome her losses, including crafting herself a bionic arm. When she and the rest of the freedom fighters are overcome and captured, her status as a war criminal makes her a commodity for the East Wind Cardinal, Viktor. As his captive, she must attempt to fashion a new life for herself. Will she be able to accept living under Dominion rule, something she’s fought against her whole life, or will she continue the fight?
I wavered a great deal on this one. Normally, I enjoy Kingsley’s books. They are a little formulaic at this point since I’ve read quite a few. What usually pulls me in for a solid 3 stars is the world building. I can’t say I get this world much at all. It feels Art Deco 1930s but they pray to the Greek gods. There are fantasy elements, like Viktor’s gift. I have no idea what Rose is capable of because it isn’t explained. It just is, which feels lazy. I don’t understand how the Dominion works. It feels like a socialist society where everyone is content. The problem is that I didn’t see enough of how things work to know that the system works. The action scenes in the beginning are well done. The development of Rose and Jamie is great. It started off really good but the development of the rules of this fantasy world crumbled once Rose was in the Dominion capital. Sorry, but this just didn’t work for me as effective world building.
Rose gave up too quickly. She was such a fighter. Her ideals were good and sound but she easily gives them up. I don’t buy it. I really liked Jamie so his ending kind of pissed me off. I thought Bub was adorable and I couldn’t get enough of him. Reminded me of Shadow from Harrow Faire. Otto is funny and I enjoyed him but he’s also part of the problem. He is a great storyteller (liar) and is part of the reason Rose is convinced to give up her fight. I just didn’t feel enough for Viktor or Rose (after she was captured). Viktor wasn’t compelling. I don’t really get why Rose picks him. He simply didn’t do it for me. Maybe there wasn’t enough background on him? Maybe I just didn’t like the world he controls? I’m not quite sure.
I vacillated between 2 and 3 stars. After sitting with it for a day or so, I decided 2.5 and rounded down. Just not enough to make me feel good about it. It isn’t Harrow Faire.
I wavered a great deal on this one. Normally, I enjoy Kingsley’s books. They are a little formulaic at this point since I’ve read quite a few. What usually pulls me in for a solid 3 stars is the world building. I can’t say I get this world much at all. It feels Art Deco 1930s but they pray to the Greek gods. There are fantasy elements, like Viktor’s gift. I have no idea what Rose is capable of because it isn’t explained. It just is, which feels lazy. I don’t understand how the Dominion works. It feels like a socialist society where everyone is content. The problem is that I didn’t see enough of how things work to know that the system works. The action scenes in the beginning are well done. The development of Rose and Jamie is great. It started off really good but the development of the rules of this fantasy world crumbled once Rose was in the Dominion capital. Sorry, but this just didn’t work for me as effective world building.
Rose gave up too quickly. She was such a fighter. Her ideals were good and sound but she easily gives them up. I don’t buy it. I really liked Jamie so his ending kind of pissed me off. I thought Bub was adorable and I couldn’t get enough of him. Reminded me of Shadow from Harrow Faire. Otto is funny and I enjoyed him but he’s also part of the problem. He is a great storyteller (liar) and is part of the reason Rose is convinced to give up her fight. I just didn’t feel enough for Viktor or Rose (after she was captured). Viktor wasn’t compelling. I don’t really get why Rose picks him. He simply didn’t do it for me. Maybe there wasn’t enough background on him? Maybe I just didn’t like the world he controls? I’m not quite sure.
I vacillated between 2 and 3 stars. After sitting with it for a day or so, I decided 2.5 and rounded down. Just not enough to make me feel good about it. It isn’t Harrow Faire.
September 18, 2022
This was a sllllooooowww burn which initially I wasn't sure would pay off but the world building was so fun and I loved the h so I stuck with it and I'm so glad I did because once the H and h come together (in the very literal sense) it was so worth all the build up. There are scenes in this book that are gonna live rent free in my spank bank for life.
There were a few issues and one particular event I wish didn't have to happen but even with those issues I couldn't stop reading and enjoying this book.
If you enjoy:
Grumpy/asshole heroes
Steampunk
Plucky heroines who fight back
Robots
Slow burn
A bit of light power exchange
Creative sex scenes
Monsters
Then I highly recommend this book. I can't wait to read about the psycho Nero in the next book.
There were a few issues and one particular event I wish didn't have to happen but even with those issues I couldn't stop reading and enjoying this book.
If you enjoy:
Grumpy/asshole heroes
Steampunk
Plucky heroines who fight back
Robots
Slow burn
A bit of light power exchange
Creative sex scenes
Monsters
Then I highly recommend this book. I can't wait to read about the psycho Nero in the next book.
May 18, 2023
Whoa. This was surprisingly good! One of those you don't think it'll be much but I loved it!
September 16, 2022
DNF at 30%. I can't suspend disbelief enough to accept that a competent ace has the voice of a 13 year old girl, complete with overuse of exclamation marks. The antagonist is similarly unbelievable. First he's cruel, shooting her fellow soldiers and shoving her in a trunk, then he's putting her up in an apartment and giving her shoes. I understand this is a romance, and I enjoy a good enemies to lovers story, but it has to make sense.
There's also a strong hint of communist apologetics that doesn't sit well with me, but even that's not as egregious as the exclamation marks.
There's also a strong hint of communist apologetics that doesn't sit well with me, but even that's not as egregious as the exclamation marks.
Want to read
August 19, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon today (8/19/2020)! 🎁
October 27, 2020
To my ear, this book read like it was written by a novice writer. There was an interesting idea but the character building felt one note and off. I truly do not understand why it has gotten as many good reviews as it has. Rose's voice, both internal and external, sounded like a parody of a WW2 heroine that you might see in a SNL sketch. She's some mashup between Rosie the Riveter and Shirley Temple. There is zero depth to her character beyond "scrappy" and "perky". And Viktor - ugh. He does the most terrible things and then it's just dismissed because that's the way he is. Rose loves him anyway because in addition to the awful things he does, he can also be nice. (I have to believe the author read some Hitler biography that talked about him loving art and little kids and came up with Viktor.) There is no explanation for how Viktor got to be who he is and why he is so passionate about his devotion to the Dominion (i.e. Communism/Fascism). You kind of get an understanding why Viktor, an uptight control freak, might be drawn to Rose ("chaos incarnate") but not the reverse. And when they finally get it on? Oh my God, I wanted to reach into the book and tell her to go find a safe house. It is straight-up rape but it's okay because she "wanted it".
Other reviewers seemed to love this book because of their enemies-to-lovers story but I found it really off-putting.
Other reviewers seemed to love this book because of their enemies-to-lovers story but I found it really off-putting.
August 11, 2020
Everything about this book felt super rushed. The concept was so good, but the characters lacked depth, like they were just ideas for characters that were unfinished. There was also a lack of chemistry, because everything was so rushed, especially the ending. I wanted something more and better from such a promising premise I guess.
April 9, 2023
promising premise but very poor execution. there were several things i didnt like including the juvenile dialogue, bad characterization, and the fact that theres like 3 characters total this whole book. this felt like a rough draft. viktor was about as interesting as a brick wall and rose behaved/thought like a teenager rather than a grown woman.
July 24, 2024
This quickly went from "not really for me" to "one of my new favorites". The setting isn't really for me; I usually only read fantasy books, and there's really only a tiny touch of fantasy here. I only read this book because it's written by my favorite author.
And I'm so glad I did! Their relationship was so exciting the whole time. I LOVE how afraid Rose was of him for the longest time. Compared to Kingsley's other MMCs, Viktor is really not that bad, but out of all her FMCs, Rose definitely felt the most afraid, and I wasn't aware I'd love that so much. Everytime she shrieked and scrambled away from him, I couldn't help but grin ear to ear!
Hell, I'd argue Viktor is barely a villain. He's cold and stern, and he's ready to do bad things for the good of his cause, but well, so did she. But he didn't need to be a villain, because the way he and their progressing relationship is written, he was still so exciting. It's enough that he was a villain in her mind.
I loved that he had a limp, it made him feel very human and real, not to mention that her reactions to the tapping sound of his cane were great.
The smut here was so so good. Those scenes will be living rent free in my head for a while now.
I'm so sad I've now finished the book and need to let go of these characters, but I'm happy it's in a positive way, there's nothing that feels unresolved, and the ending was well rounded.
... Side note, I just have to mention Nero here. Every single interaction of theirs in this book? SO GOOD. I can only hope his book lives up to that.
And I'm so glad I did! Their relationship was so exciting the whole time. I LOVE how afraid Rose was of him for the longest time. Compared to Kingsley's other MMCs, Viktor is really not that bad, but out of all her FMCs, Rose definitely felt the most afraid, and I wasn't aware I'd love that so much. Everytime she shrieked and scrambled away from him, I couldn't help but grin ear to ear!
Hell, I'd argue Viktor is barely a villain. He's cold and stern, and he's ready to do bad things for the good of his cause, but well, so did she. But he didn't need to be a villain, because the way he and their progressing relationship is written, he was still so exciting. It's enough that he was a villain in her mind.
I loved that he had a limp, it made him feel very human and real, not to mention that her reactions to the tapping sound of his cane were great.
The smut here was so so good. Those scenes will be living rent free in my head for a while now.
I'm so sad I've now finished the book and need to let go of these characters, but I'm happy it's in a positive way, there's nothing that feels unresolved, and the ending was well rounded.
... Side note, I just have to mention Nero here. Every single interaction of theirs in this book? SO GOOD. I can only hope his book lives up to that.
May 8, 2020
Initially I skipped this one because I didn’t feel it was my thing. Gave it a go after reading the villain coffee meetings. I liked it. It was sweet and a lot softer than I had been expecting.
Admittedly I didn’t get into the story until Rose’s arm was mentioned but after that I was all in. Rose feels similar to Alice being another maker. The cardinals were interesting. I’m looking forward to reading Nero’s story, it’s gonna be sweet chaos.
At the start of the book Rose and Jamie were cute, which was worrying since she’s supposed to end up with the bad guy. By the end it was come on dude back off you’re being a creep.
For a moment when it was Otto’s POV it was a bit weird but I got it. I liked the sacrifices he made and how he’s managed to stay friends with Victor for so long. I think we have a Tsundere villain. Otto was such a loveable busy body and lightened the story.
My favourite part though has to be Bub. He was so sweet and it was funny with how he was so innocent. I really wanted to see his and Otto’s first meeting. I’m wondering if there was some sort of first child joke in there. Second favourite part was Victor getting in the plane.
Favourite character was Nero, he seemed a bit mad hatter and the epilogue was sweet. Felt sorry for Rose but really it’s couldn’t have ended any other way. Another great book.
Admittedly I didn’t get into the story until Rose’s arm was mentioned but after that I was all in. Rose feels similar to Alice being another maker. The cardinals were interesting. I’m looking forward to reading Nero’s story, it’s gonna be sweet chaos.
At the start of the book Rose and Jamie were cute, which was worrying since she’s supposed to end up with the bad guy. By the end it was come on dude back off you’re being a creep.
For a moment when it was Otto’s POV it was a bit weird but I got it. I liked the sacrifices he made and how he’s managed to stay friends with Victor for so long. I think we have a Tsundere villain. Otto was such a loveable busy body and lightened the story.
My favourite part though has to be Bub. He was so sweet and it was funny with how he was so innocent. I really wanted to see his and Otto’s first meeting. I’m wondering if there was some sort of first child joke in there. Second favourite part was Victor getting in the plane.
Favourite character was Nero, he seemed a bit mad hatter and the epilogue was sweet. Felt sorry for Rose but really it’s couldn’t have ended any other way. Another great book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 8, 2021
5 stars
* An advanced reading copy was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. *
First, let me tell you why this author became one of my favorites in such a short time. It's like she looked at the outline, the design for books and characters in a certain genre and decided to add so many details until it became something new and original and creative.
This book is different! And so interesting and enjoyable. Like a breath of fresh air. You never know what to expect.
The worldbuilding is intriguing. We don't get many details as to why it got that way but the concept of such a structured world that isn't oppressive and cruel? Amazing.
The main character, Rose, was delightful. Some might say that she got pushed around and didn't fight back, but seriously. What could she do? She was just one person and did her best in an awful situation. I liked that she wasn't meant to be the martyr that fought anything in her path for some 'noble' reason.
I love villain romances. There's something just fascinating when the villain's whole world changes because of one person.
Compared to other 'bad guys', Viktor is not that bad. I loved how adorably confused he was because Rose didn't fit his strict rules.
One thing I have to say about this book is that the romance felt a little rushed at some point. It started out well and slow but exploded in just a few pages.
In my defense I thought this series would be a trilogy. But the next book will focus on other characters. So I understand the need to wrap up the story with Rose and Viktor.
The ending was both happy and sad. I really hope to see more of these characters in the next book. Which will be Nero's. I have a feeling he'll be the most disturbing one yet. Can't. Wait.
I wholly recommend this book. Or any of the author's books. But 'Steel Rose' is somewhat tamer in terms of violence, cruelty and angst. But no less exceptional.
10/10 would recommend
* An advanced reading copy was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. *
First, let me tell you why this author became one of my favorites in such a short time. It's like she looked at the outline, the design for books and characters in a certain genre and decided to add so many details until it became something new and original and creative.
This book is different! And so interesting and enjoyable. Like a breath of fresh air. You never know what to expect.
The worldbuilding is intriguing. We don't get many details as to why it got that way but the concept of such a structured world that isn't oppressive and cruel? Amazing.
The main character, Rose, was delightful. Some might say that she got pushed around and didn't fight back, but seriously. What could she do? She was just one person and did her best in an awful situation. I liked that she wasn't meant to be the martyr that fought anything in her path for some 'noble' reason.
I love villain romances. There's something just fascinating when the villain's whole world changes because of one person.
Compared to other 'bad guys', Viktor is not that bad. I loved how adorably confused he was because Rose didn't fit his strict rules.
One thing I have to say about this book is that the romance felt a little rushed at some point. It started out well and slow but exploded in just a few pages.
In my defense I thought this series would be a trilogy. But the next book will focus on other characters. So I understand the need to wrap up the story with Rose and Viktor.
The ending was both happy and sad. I really hope to see more of these characters in the next book. Which will be Nero's. I have a feeling he'll be the most disturbing one yet. Can't. Wait.
I wholly recommend this book. Or any of the author's books. But 'Steel Rose' is somewhat tamer in terms of violence, cruelty and angst. But no less exceptional.
10/10 would recommend
May 19, 2020
I really enjoyed this!
Ibhave read almost all of the author's published books and her characters follow a general type that just really works for me.
Rose is possibly my favourite is far. There is a wonderful sense of lightness and hope aboutvher character, no matter how differently things turn out for her than she thought. She is also wonderfully rational and pragmatic. I really appreciated her whole reaction to the situation she found herself in and found her attitude remarkably refreshing.
Viktor was ever so slightly tamer than some of the author's other male leads, but I found him really engaging and his situation was relatable. I also found his relationship with Rose surprisingly believable, even with the circumstances behind it.
All in all, an excellent read!
Ibhave read almost all of the author's published books and her characters follow a general type that just really works for me.
Rose is possibly my favourite is far. There is a wonderful sense of lightness and hope aboutvher character, no matter how differently things turn out for her than she thought. She is also wonderfully rational and pragmatic. I really appreciated her whole reaction to the situation she found herself in and found her attitude remarkably refreshing.
Viktor was ever so slightly tamer than some of the author's other male leads, but I found him really engaging and his situation was relatable. I also found his relationship with Rose surprisingly believable, even with the circumstances behind it.
All in all, an excellent read!
January 24, 2023
re-read// the slowburn villain heroine teas is as good as i remember.. it was giving more mature warnette vibes
April 1, 2020
Kathryn Ann Kingsley has hit it out of the park again with this one!
⭐⭐⭐⭐.5 stars!
Steel Rose is set in a completely different world that is more dystopian and a little dieselpunk-ish. The author never fails to dazzle me with her creativity and imagination!
Rose Calder has been fighting against the forces of the East Wind Dominion as a pilot for years, and the rebels are on the losing end. When the rebels are finally defeated and captured by the Dominion forces, she fears that it's her end, but a sudden turn of events puts her in the Commander's clutches and a few of her secrets are revealed to him. She doesn't know what to make of the man that she has considered as an enemy for so long and what does he plan to do with her?
If you want me to be completely honest, I think I liked this book better than the author's Halfway Between series and I believe that's mainly because of the characters. Don't get me wrong, The Masks of Under series will always be my favorite, but the Steel Rose has quickly captured the second spot!
Rose was a refreshing change from the typical stubborn heroines that we see in fantasy books. She's strong, scrappy and intelligent, but she knows her faults too! And she was more cheerful and optimistic than I'd expected and that's mainly because she's a go-with-the-flow type of person.
On the other hand, Viktor was a complete enigma in the beginning! But as we slowly get further into the book, the author reveals his inner characteristics and I loved them! Also, the chemistry between Rose and Viktor is literally off-the-charts!*fans self*
Kathryn really knows how to write her villain romance stories, because there is no sort of taming-the-beast routine in her books! The anti-heroes don't suddenly change for good just because of the heroine's love. The heroines love them just the way they are and the couple learns to meet each other halfway, which is so realistic!
And the world-building is off to a good start in this one! I would describe it as something similar to what would have happened if communism had ever been implemented successfully! What set this apart from other dystopian worlds was that, it wasn't actually dystopian. Rose learns that though she might have thought she was fighting for freedom, the common citizens see her as something close to a terrorist as most of them are content with their lives! That was a unique standpoint!
I think there's a lot more for us to see and I'd have loved to find out more about how the select few(like Viktor, Rose, Nero, etc) got their powers and what sets them apart! I hope we get to find out more in the other books! I think Nero's book is next and I have a feeling that it might be even more delicious than this one(because I know the author is evil haha!) Can't wait! xD
*I was provided with an ARC in exchange for an honest review*
⭐⭐⭐⭐.5 stars!
Steel Rose is set in a completely different world that is more dystopian and a little dieselpunk-ish. The author never fails to dazzle me with her creativity and imagination!
Rose Calder has been fighting against the forces of the East Wind Dominion as a pilot for years, and the rebels are on the losing end. When the rebels are finally defeated and captured by the Dominion forces, she fears that it's her end, but a sudden turn of events puts her in the Commander's clutches and a few of her secrets are revealed to him. She doesn't know what to make of the man that she has considered as an enemy for so long and what does he plan to do with her?
If you want me to be completely honest, I think I liked this book better than the author's Halfway Between series and I believe that's mainly because of the characters. Don't get me wrong, The Masks of Under series will always be my favorite, but the Steel Rose has quickly captured the second spot!
Rose was a refreshing change from the typical stubborn heroines that we see in fantasy books. She's strong, scrappy and intelligent, but she knows her faults too! And she was more cheerful and optimistic than I'd expected and that's mainly because she's a go-with-the-flow type of person.
On the other hand, Viktor was a complete enigma in the beginning! But as we slowly get further into the book, the author reveals his inner characteristics and I loved them! Also, the chemistry between Rose and Viktor is literally off-the-charts!*fans self*
Kathryn really knows how to write her villain romance stories, because there is no sort of taming-the-beast routine in her books! The anti-heroes don't suddenly change for good just because of the heroine's love. The heroines love them just the way they are and the couple learns to meet each other halfway, which is so realistic!
And the world-building is off to a good start in this one! I would describe it as something similar to what would have happened if communism had ever been implemented successfully! What set this apart from other dystopian worlds was that, it wasn't actually dystopian. Rose learns that though she might have thought she was fighting for freedom, the common citizens see her as something close to a terrorist as most of them are content with their lives! That was a unique standpoint!
I think there's a lot more for us to see and I'd have loved to find out more about how the select few(like Viktor, Rose, Nero, etc) got their powers and what sets them apart! I hope we get to find out more in the other books! I think Nero's book is next and I have a feeling that it might be even more delicious than this one(because I know the author is evil haha!) Can't wait! xD
*I was provided with an ARC in exchange for an honest review*
April 8, 2020
I love this book. Was it perfect? NO, but it didn't matter to me because it was so very entertaining and captivating that I was enthralled by this gripping story from the very first pages. I must admit that there were a couple of tings that didn't make sense, but at the end it didn't bother me because I was entertained, I was left feeling so many emotions that I lost my disbelief to all the fun, intensity and a bit of the mystery of magic.
The dialogues were especially entertaining and humorous. Rose had a sense of humor that lightened the mood. As this book had war, death and pain. This book had a mean and cruel hero - Victor. This book had dark romance that made your heart skip a beat, plummet deep into abyss and soar high in the sky. There was darkness, but there was also light, so I smiled, laughed and also shed a couple of tears.
I felt the sparks and chemistry between Rose and Victor almost from the very first moment that they met. Their romance was complicated, confusing, intense, dark, but also sweet, passionate and so very steamy. I was entertained with their interactions and dynamic. I loved their slow-burning and then suddenly explosively sudden romance with its enemies-to-lovers trope.
Mainly the story was told from Rose's POV, but there were parts of Victor's POV and even a few from Otto (Victor's best friend, second in command) as well. All of the characters were complex human beings with their strengths and flaws. No one was perfect and I learned to accept and love them all, even the villains. Yup, I love to hate them ;)
And then the book itself was so many things, at the beginning it had this steam punk feel with zeppelins, small fighter planes with pilots having long scarfs and googles like it was the beginning of 20th century. But there were also cars and high-scrapers, phones, dishwashers, electric trains and other things from our current time. And then there were robots with its futuristic vibe and their religion from Ancient Greece with Zeus, Hades and other gods which included also people with supernatural powers with its magical and mystical atmosphere. So it ended up being a mix of past, present and future with sci-fi and fantasy intertwined together creating a complicated and unique supernatural dystopian world with a little bit of mystery because there is still so much to discover in the next books. I just can't wait to read Nero's story, I hope it will be coming our way soon :)
I don't think you need to know much about this book before you dive in because that will make this journey even better. Just be ready to accept that the love interest is an anti-hero and the romance at times will take some darker turns.
What else can I say? I loved Steel Rose with its flaws and all 😍
The dialogues were especially entertaining and humorous. Rose had a sense of humor that lightened the mood. As this book had war, death and pain. This book had a mean and cruel hero - Victor. This book had dark romance that made your heart skip a beat, plummet deep into abyss and soar high in the sky. There was darkness, but there was also light, so I smiled, laughed and also shed a couple of tears.
I felt the sparks and chemistry between Rose and Victor almost from the very first moment that they met. Their romance was complicated, confusing, intense, dark, but also sweet, passionate and so very steamy. I was entertained with their interactions and dynamic. I loved their slow-burning and then suddenly explosively sudden romance with its enemies-to-lovers trope.
Mainly the story was told from Rose's POV, but there were parts of Victor's POV and even a few from Otto (Victor's best friend, second in command) as well. All of the characters were complex human beings with their strengths and flaws. No one was perfect and I learned to accept and love them all, even the villains. Yup, I love to hate them ;)
And then the book itself was so many things, at the beginning it had this steam punk feel with zeppelins, small fighter planes with pilots having long scarfs and googles like it was the beginning of 20th century. But there were also cars and high-scrapers, phones, dishwashers, electric trains and other things from our current time. And then there were robots with its futuristic vibe and their religion from Ancient Greece with Zeus, Hades and other gods which included also people with supernatural powers with its magical and mystical atmosphere. So it ended up being a mix of past, present and future with sci-fi and fantasy intertwined together creating a complicated and unique supernatural dystopian world with a little bit of mystery because there is still so much to discover in the next books. I just can't wait to read Nero's story, I hope it will be coming our way soon :)
I don't think you need to know much about this book before you dive in because that will make this journey even better. Just be ready to accept that the love interest is an anti-hero and the romance at times will take some darker turns.
What else can I say? I loved Steel Rose with its flaws and all 😍
March 23, 2020
"Hope. What a funny concept. A torch in the darkness fighting off the cold until the dawn."
Do not pass this series up
I first read an ARC copy - Then when it came out I read it via kindle unlimited and I then purchased the paperback
Kingsley first dazzled me with her dark fantasy series "The Masks of Under". Then she did a complete 360 with the "Halfway Between" series - which leaned more towards suspense and the angelic vs. demonic.
And now she has completely blown me away with Steel Rose the first in "The Cardinal Winds" series.
There have only been a few authors that have had the ability to ,quite literally, drag me into their work
What do I mean?
Have you ever been so involved in a book that you forgot it was fiction?
Where you actually shrugged your shoulders in response to a scene or the character?
Or you lifted your eyebrows to question them "like really, you are going to go there?"
Or you laughed so hard that your family and/or friends began to consider you may need a new jacket?
This was one of those stories
I can't pin point any exact moment or even why I felt so invested
I can tell you that this was an epic journey that left me emotionally depleted yet filled at the same time
"Show respect to those you defeat. In their descent, you have the power to choose whether it is an ally or an enemy who looks up at you."
Rose is fighting for freedom - It is all she has ever known
Jamie is the leader of their rebel band - Rose's side kick in a way
Viktor is fighting for ... well you will have to decide that for yourself
Then there is Otto - Gotta love a man willing to go above and beyond
Bub bless your sweet little empty tin shell
Nero you naughty little devil
You may be a bit weary of the genre listing - clock work gears - history - war -
Not your thing
I get that
But this is so much more than that
"I'm overwhelmed. I'm scared, I'm confused and I'm in a free fall" - Rose
Go on, try something new - take that leap - you will never know until you do
Do not pass this series up
I first read an ARC copy - Then when it came out I read it via kindle unlimited and I then purchased the paperback
Kingsley first dazzled me with her dark fantasy series "The Masks of Under". Then she did a complete 360 with the "Halfway Between" series - which leaned more towards suspense and the angelic vs. demonic.
And now she has completely blown me away with Steel Rose the first in "The Cardinal Winds" series.
There have only been a few authors that have had the ability to ,quite literally, drag me into their work
What do I mean?
Have you ever been so involved in a book that you forgot it was fiction?
Where you actually shrugged your shoulders in response to a scene or the character?
Or you lifted your eyebrows to question them "like really, you are going to go there?"
Or you laughed so hard that your family and/or friends began to consider you may need a new jacket?
This was one of those stories
I can't pin point any exact moment or even why I felt so invested
I can tell you that this was an epic journey that left me emotionally depleted yet filled at the same time
"Show respect to those you defeat. In their descent, you have the power to choose whether it is an ally or an enemy who looks up at you."
Rose is fighting for freedom - It is all she has ever known
Jamie is the leader of their rebel band - Rose's side kick in a way
Viktor is fighting for ... well you will have to decide that for yourself
Then there is Otto - Gotta love a man willing to go above and beyond
Bub bless your sweet little empty tin shell
Nero you naughty little devil
You may be a bit weary of the genre listing - clock work gears - history - war -
Not your thing
I get that
But this is so much more than that
"I'm overwhelmed. I'm scared, I'm confused and I'm in a free fall" - Rose
Go on, try something new - take that leap - you will never know until you do
April 9, 2020
I loved the world in Steel Rose. It’s this wonderfully interesting Dystopian place that has influences of steam-punk, mythology, super-powers, and present-day. It felt like I had been dropped into a mixing bowl of old and new, real and imagined. I loved it!
The characters are really interesting and exciting. I found myself rooting for the villain, which is new for me. I wanted the romance to work out for Viktor and Rose, even with all of Viktor’s ideals and flaws. Their chemistry was really fabulous. I would have liked to see a little more build-up to their romance, as it felt just a bit rushed. It was, however, a great and steamy romance that was a lot of fun to read about. I would love to see a second book about them, but it looks like book 2 moves on to a new set of characters. I’m looking forward to reading this new story as well!
The story starts in this dystopian society that is already well-established. We don’t really find out the backstory on what happened to take them to this point in time, but that didn’t bother me. Rose is a pilot fighting for the rebellion against the East Wind Dominion, but the rebels have lost and Rose is captured. Placed into the hands of the Commander, Rose has to figure out what her next move will be.
I would recommend Steel Rose for readers that like a darker romance. The main love interest is a villain, so be ready for a nice balance of light and dark in this read!
My full review will post to my blog on 4/11/20. All of my reviews can be found at https://shejustlovesbooks.com/all-boo...
The characters are really interesting and exciting. I found myself rooting for the villain, which is new for me. I wanted the romance to work out for Viktor and Rose, even with all of Viktor’s ideals and flaws. Their chemistry was really fabulous. I would have liked to see a little more build-up to their romance, as it felt just a bit rushed. It was, however, a great and steamy romance that was a lot of fun to read about. I would love to see a second book about them, but it looks like book 2 moves on to a new set of characters. I’m looking forward to reading this new story as well!
The story starts in this dystopian society that is already well-established. We don’t really find out the backstory on what happened to take them to this point in time, but that didn’t bother me. Rose is a pilot fighting for the rebellion against the East Wind Dominion, but the rebels have lost and Rose is captured. Placed into the hands of the Commander, Rose has to figure out what her next move will be.
I would recommend Steel Rose for readers that like a darker romance. The main love interest is a villain, so be ready for a nice balance of light and dark in this read!
My full review will post to my blog on 4/11/20. All of my reviews can be found at https://shejustlovesbooks.com/all-boo...
October 24, 2022
The commander of the East Wind Dominion is a terrifying man. He leads an army of automatons. He can control lightning itself. And now, Rose Calder is his prisoner of war.
All Rose has ever known is fighting. When the invading forces of the East Wind Dominion take away her friends, her family, and her home, she takes to the skies to battle for her freedom. For hope.
When the war comes to a sudden end at the hands of commander Viktor Lang, she is certain that she is about to die. When he discovers her impossible secret, she becomes a mystery that he is desperate to solve and that may be worse.
The war may be over, but now she stands to lose much, much more.
Heather's Notes
I had a couple problems with this story but ended up liking it. I had a BIG problem with the politics. That is communism plain and simple. Also he had killed hundreds if not thousands of people who did not want to do what he told them too, that whole no-one was total bull. That is what the entire was was about. So I call bull on him saying no-one had ever been killed for not wanting to do what they were told. Not gonna lie - I skimmed through parts of this. I also found it a little had to believe Rose was so ok with the being the loser. The author did a really good job of making it believable, but it was a little too quick. Once we got past all the political crap I enjoyed the story. I will probably check out the next one as this was not as "dark" as expected.
All Rose has ever known is fighting. When the invading forces of the East Wind Dominion take away her friends, her family, and her home, she takes to the skies to battle for her freedom. For hope.
When the war comes to a sudden end at the hands of commander Viktor Lang, she is certain that she is about to die. When he discovers her impossible secret, she becomes a mystery that he is desperate to solve and that may be worse.
The war may be over, but now she stands to lose much, much more.
Heather's Notes
I had a couple problems with this story but ended up liking it. I had a BIG problem with the politics. That is communism plain and simple. Also he had killed hundreds if not thousands of people who did not want to do what he told them too, that whole no-one was total bull. That is what the entire was was about. So I call bull on him saying no-one had ever been killed for not wanting to do what they were told. Not gonna lie - I skimmed through parts of this. I also found it a little had to believe Rose was so ok with the being the loser. The author did a really good job of making it believable, but it was a little too quick. Once we got past all the political crap I enjoyed the story. I will probably check out the next one as this was not as "dark" as expected.
March 20, 2020
This was so good! No surprise there! I read this is one sitting, my initial intention was just to read it for like half an hour to get the general gist of the story and characters as it was already late at night, but I just couldn't put it down once I'd started reading. I loved Rose, I liked how we saw this badass young woman who has fought in a war most of her life as a fighter pilot and then seeing her vulnerable side after being captured and having her whole life flipped and starting to question her beliefs. It was so enjoyable to go on that journey with her! And oh Viktor!! How could you not love him!! It was great being able to get to see behind his stone cold mask to the more vulnerable side of him. Rose and Viktors chemistry was so so good! All the drama of it, the uncertainty, the internal battle of wanting each other vs shouldn't want each other. The only downside for me was I wanted more of them, I wanted to stay on this journey with them longer. I wished their story was a series instead of a stand alone. I wasn't ready for it to end. I'm just greedy like that. But ohhh I'm so looking forward to reading more about Nero in the next book. He's going to be a blast I'm sure.
March 20, 2020
This was absolutely spectacular. The story begins with a country called the East Wind Dominion taking over the land led by a man named Victor Lang. He is a cold and analytical man, but he meets his match in Rose, a fiery technopath and pilot.
Their romance is beautiful and strong and absolutely adorable.
The best part of this story, and most of Kathryn Kingsley's books, is the characters. The main characters are amazing, but the side characters steal the show in many ways. They are interesting and well-rounded and the way they interact with each other feels very lifelike. The four Cardinals were especially interesting and I'm looking forward too seeing their own stories.
The only thing that I would like to see more of is hobbies. It might be silly, but I firmly believe that giving characters one thing that they do for fun and not any other reason gives them more depth.
Also, world building. That's always awesome.
Also I'm like 95% sure Otto is the reincarnation of Conrad.
Characters: 10/10
Plot: 9/10
World building 8/10
Dialogue: 10/10
Their romance is beautiful and strong and absolutely adorable.
The best part of this story, and most of Kathryn Kingsley's books, is the characters. The main characters are amazing, but the side characters steal the show in many ways. They are interesting and well-rounded and the way they interact with each other feels very lifelike. The four Cardinals were especially interesting and I'm looking forward too seeing their own stories.
The only thing that I would like to see more of is hobbies. It might be silly, but I firmly believe that giving characters one thing that they do for fun and not any other reason gives them more depth.
Also, world building. That's always awesome.
Also I'm like 95% sure Otto is the reincarnation of Conrad.
Characters: 10/10
Plot: 9/10
World building 8/10
Dialogue: 10/10
December 14, 2021
Although not a perfect read, this dark enemies-to-lovers romance is a step up from the cheesy cover. The book starts with the final battle in a fifteen-year civil war that had pit our main characters against one another. The hero, the East Cardinal, the strong/silent/powerful type, takes the heroine, Rose, a fighter pilot/mechanic, prisoner. Despite Rose's bona fide badassery, I was surprised to see a 2020 publish date when I finished this up. She gave me serious Julie Garwood vibes: innocent, optimistic, plucky, etc. Rose also got over the war pretty darn fast for someone who had been fighting for years, lost her family and friends, and shot down something like over 600 planes during her rebel career. (It's amazing what great sex can do for a person in Romancelandia.) One additional plus was the book's great secondary characters, especially the hero's second-in-command, Otto, and Bub, a robot with a heart of gold! I also could have done without the instalove, but even with all those quibbles, this was a four-star read for me.
August 30, 2022
This one came out of nowhere. It’s honestly an amalgamation of this authors favorite titles and it works. But it’s entirely it’s own unique story. It subverts cliche tropes and I’m here for it. If I had to guess as well, this society is what communists mean by a fully realized communist society and not the failed communist countries we see in our world. It’s got a bit of philosophy in that too. Rose is unique as well as Viktor. It also shows men can still be friends with women even if they find them attractive through Otto and roses friendship. Also the slow burn is phenomenal ngl. Also, Viktor gives Loid vibes if you’re into that.
All around good and fun. Side note: I will absolutely not be reading Nero’s story thank you v much. 😇
All around good and fun. Side note: I will absolutely not be reading Nero’s story thank you v much. 😇
March 21, 2020
Yet another fine addition to this author’s work. At this point I have read every book she has written. Each of her series are unique from each other except for one point—she likes villains—and this book is no exception. In the case of Viktor, he seems a frozen, brilliant, control freak, but turns out, underneath that cold, calculating, just-a-little-cruel exterior is a man on fire just waiting to be annoyed by this fiery, fly by the seat of her pants fighter pilot. If you are the sort who thinks good boys are a little too boring and darker, misunderstood guys are more your thing, this will be a fabulous read for you.
November 29, 2021
3.5🌟
This book really intrigued me, but I felt a little let down by its execution. I really did like the overall message, but wish there had been more to the story after Rose got captured. It’s almost like she was this badass, but after getting captured, the book turns into a romance, and her badass-ness kind of gets forgotten (the sex scenes were 🔥🔥 though)
This book really intrigued me, but I felt a little let down by its execution. I really did like the overall message, but wish there had been more to the story after Rose got captured. It’s almost like she was this badass, but after getting captured, the book turns into a romance, and her badass-ness kind of gets forgotten (the sex scenes were 🔥🔥 though)
March 25, 2020
Fantastic book. Can't wait for more of the other cardinals.
Viktor and rose were perfect. Love this story. Perfect pace.
I totally love this author there's nothing she puts out that I don't just love.
Viktor and rose were perfect. Love this story. Perfect pace.
I totally love this author there's nothing she puts out that I don't just love.
February 23, 2021
I absolute loved the romance, it’s exactly my cup of tea (warning: not a flowery and sunshiney romance). It’s just something about villains that does it for me. I also loved the main character and the world they lived in.
I’m exited to read the next book!
I’m exited to read the next book!
September 30, 2022
The heroine started out as a strong fighter pilot but quickly turned out to be a tongue tied, scared serial apologizer. Hero is a jerk. period.
June 22, 2021
Don't judge a book by it's cover! So far I've found most of this author's book covers unappealing but yet LOVED the books.
Rose is a fighter pilot in a war. They're losing. Eventually she is captured by the other side and has to come to grips with the war being over and the possibility that she was fighting for the wrong side. The relationship between the Cardinal and Rose was interesting but I found it moved far too quickly and was disappointed in that aspect. But he comes across as an anti-villian (though he is not) so I enjoyed the ride.
Rose is a fighter pilot in a war. They're losing. Eventually she is captured by the other side and has to come to grips with the war being over and the possibility that she was fighting for the wrong side. The relationship between the Cardinal and Rose was interesting but I found it moved far too quickly and was disappointed in that aspect. But he comes across as an anti-villian (though he is not) so I enjoyed the ride.
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