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Princes of the Blood #3
In Despair
Prince Telmé Guldbrandsen has been groomed since childhood to become a Prince of the Blood and Commander of the Legion. He will be the youngest person to ever take the Blooding—if he can behave long enough to prove he can be trusted with the responsibility. But behaving is difficult when he is constantly forced to endure Korin: heir to the Reach of the House and the Temple of the Sacred Three, and the snotty brat Telmé is expected to someday marry.
Then the unthinkable happens, leaving Castle Guldbrandsen—and the Legion—in pieces. Overwhelmed by fear and grief, Telmé convinces Korin to help him attempt the impossible. But rather than relief, Telmé's triumph is met with anger and rejection...
Then the unthinkable happens, leaving Castle Guldbrandsen—and the Legion—in pieces. Overwhelmed by fear and grief, Telmé convinces Korin to help him attempt the impossible. But rather than relief, Telmé's triumph is met with anger and rejection...
212 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 8, 2014
27 people are currently reading
328 people want to read
About the author
Megan Derr
284 books2,948 followersMegan is a long time resident of queer romance and keeps herself busy reading and writing it. She is often accused of fluff and nonsense. When she’s not involved in writing, she likes to cook, harass her wife and cats, or watch movies. She loves to hear from readers and can be found all over the internet.
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meganderr.com
patreon.com/meganderr
meganderr.blogspot.com
facebook.com/meganaprilderr
meganaderr@gmail.com
@meganaderr
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
April 26, 2020
This isn't my favorite of the series, mostly because the romance aspects of it felt a little undersold. The transition from the enemies to lovers wasn't as smooth as I would have liked. Granted both of these guys are really just young boys when this story starts. Circumstances really force them to grow up and grow up fast. There were definitely times where I wanted to smack Telmé and Korin both upside the head. They had their childish moments. But more than that they had the caring for their troubled nation and people. Telmé especially. He was determined to help and work to save the people even if he didn't always go about it in the smartest most well thought out manner.
I felt for Telmé throughout the book though as it seemed like no matter what he did everyone was turning further and further against him. He was a scared kid, determined to be the man, the Prince, the Legion needed him to be. He risks everything to become a Prince of the Blood when really he had no idea what he was doing. I'm glad the book focused more on Telmé's story than Korin's if only because at only 15, Korin felt very young at times. He has huge shoes to step into, but he's really still just a kid. The couple of years Telmé has on him, help to make him feel a little more ready to step into the big shoes he has to fill. As previously stated, his decisions aren't always planned well, but that's forgivable to his youth. His passion though stands out.
I liked the story more than the romance. The attack on the palace and people is awful and the recovery not easy. But it sort of erased the antagonism between the boys too quickly or at least in an awkward manner. It felt a little rushed. Overall though I did enjoy the world of this story and getting to see how these two, whom we already know from previous books, got their start together.
I felt for Telmé throughout the book though as it seemed like no matter what he did everyone was turning further and further against him. He was a scared kid, determined to be the man, the Prince, the Legion needed him to be. He risks everything to become a Prince of the Blood when really he had no idea what he was doing. I'm glad the book focused more on Telmé's story than Korin's if only because at only 15, Korin felt very young at times. He has huge shoes to step into, but he's really still just a kid. The couple of years Telmé has on him, help to make him feel a little more ready to step into the big shoes he has to fill. As previously stated, his decisions aren't always planned well, but that's forgivable to his youth. His passion though stands out.
I liked the story more than the romance. The attack on the palace and people is awful and the recovery not easy. But it sort of erased the antagonism between the boys too quickly or at least in an awkward manner. It felt a little rushed. Overall though I did enjoy the world of this story and getting to see how these two, whom we already know from previous books, got their start together.
July 11, 2014
Not my favorite of the series.
I read these stories for the fantasy adventure and the creatures that give me the heebeegeebees. As much of a wimp as I am, I’m a glutton for Ms. Derr’s particular kind of punishment. I feel like the romance has always been secondary to the action/adventure. Of Last Resort is my favorite because it melded the romance and the adventure together in such a way that had me flipping those pages in a frenzy. Unfortunately, that was not the case for me with In Despair which is due, in large part, to the age of the MCs for the majority of the book. Telmé and Korin have been the established couple throughout the series and this is the story of how their relationship developed 27 years ago when they were 17 and 15, respectively.
I remember the hell of being a teen-the self-doubt, the insecurities and the moodiness. I do. I understand all of those feels, but I don’t particularly care to read about them. Both Telmé and Korin have been forced to take on adult roles far too young and both struggle with those responsibilities while contending with the constant scrutiny of their elders. As much as I understand and even sympathize with their plight… ugh. It was grueling. Really. All the screeching, crying, overreacting, fighting, pity parties were just too much melodrama for me.
The adventure aspect was simplistic. If I can figure out what’s going on halfway through the book, then I lose interest waiting for the MCs to figure it out.
What I did enjoy and simultaneously found cringe worthy, as usual, were the creatures/monsters. One word: snakes. *shudders* Why’d it have to be snakes? I jumped. Literally. More than once. Reading. I’m shaking my head at myself. I believe she added a few new creatures to the Legion which were interesting. Ms. Derr is certainly not lacking in creativity in the creeptastic department. There is some worldbuilding, though not a lot, but I did learn why the bonding of the Princes to a human is so important.
In short, I liked it. I didn’t love it. There were a lot of silly editing mistakes. Really silly. However, I would read another installment if she’s continuing on with the series. In a heartbeat.
Reviewed for
I read these stories for the fantasy adventure and the creatures that give me the heebeegeebees. As much of a wimp as I am, I’m a glutton for Ms. Derr’s particular kind of punishment. I feel like the romance has always been secondary to the action/adventure. Of Last Resort is my favorite because it melded the romance and the adventure together in such a way that had me flipping those pages in a frenzy. Unfortunately, that was not the case for me with In Despair which is due, in large part, to the age of the MCs for the majority of the book. Telmé and Korin have been the established couple throughout the series and this is the story of how their relationship developed 27 years ago when they were 17 and 15, respectively.
I remember the hell of being a teen-the self-doubt, the insecurities and the moodiness. I do. I understand all of those feels, but I don’t particularly care to read about them. Both Telmé and Korin have been forced to take on adult roles far too young and both struggle with those responsibilities while contending with the constant scrutiny of their elders. As much as I understand and even sympathize with their plight… ugh. It was grueling. Really. All the screeching, crying, overreacting, fighting, pity parties were just too much melodrama for me.
The adventure aspect was simplistic. If I can figure out what’s going on halfway through the book, then I lose interest waiting for the MCs to figure it out.
What I did enjoy and simultaneously found cringe worthy, as usual, were the creatures/monsters. One word: snakes. *shudders* Why’d it have to be snakes? I jumped. Literally. More than once. Reading. I’m shaking my head at myself. I believe she added a few new creatures to the Legion which were interesting. Ms. Derr is certainly not lacking in creativity in the creeptastic department. There is some worldbuilding, though not a lot, but I did learn why the bonding of the Princes to a human is so important.
In short, I liked it. I didn’t love it. There were a lot of silly editing mistakes. Really silly. However, I would read another installment if she’s continuing on with the series. In a heartbeat.
Reviewed for
July 17, 2014
3.5 stars
In Despair ends the Princes of the Blood trilogy that started with Of Last Resort. The story opens in “present” time – which gives readers the state of continuity after the event that happened in the first book. Korin is in a deep coma and Telmé has pretty much stepped down from his position as Commander of the Legion to take care of his husband. Then the story moves backward to where Telmé and Korin were still in their teens, the beginning of their life-long relationship.
I still have the same issues I had with the previous two books – namely that I feel the world-building and the explanations stay firmly in the author’s head. Oh, I know more about Princes of the Blood now, including their Bloodling ritual. However, the other branches are still blurry to me – although I think Ms. Derr gives few explanations about Titans and Shadowmarch. This is my main issue with this series, that it being some sort of fantasy, I still end up not knowing much about it.
My other issue here is the age of the main characters. Being so young – Telmé is 17 years old while Korin is 15 years old – the story is filled with teenaged melodrama and angst. Including the fighting, the jealousy, the crying… I am not opposed to characters shedding tears but I can’t say I have patience for it either. These characters feel young and act young. Also, the mystery is rather weak. There is no big twist about the villains since the crumbs that Ms. Derr gave are plenty.
Having said that, I still think it’s a good read. When Telmé and Korin are not fighting, when they finally realize that they don’t actually hate each other, when they realize what they feel for one another, those moments are a treasure. I love their conversation at those times. Even if in most of the book, Telmé and Korin are pretty much separated – with Telmé going out to kill monsters after being the sole Princes of the Blood.
In addition, the opening and ending the story in ‘present’ state gives readers closure. I love those two chapters, it is a testament of how strong Telmé and Korin’s love is, after twenty seven years. It also reminds me slightly of a similar plot I read in a historical M/F long time ago when I was younger, where the heroine was determined to be with her husband who was in a coma.
And I do have to say that Ms. Derr has quite the imagination – what with the ritual, the branches, and the monsters. The adventure is great to read. Oh, and also, despite the huge number of casualties, how Ms. Derr writes never goes to a ‘gory’ situation, which I appreciate even if I can sometimes like goriness in my story…
All in all, it is a good ending of the trilogy even if the trilogy itself is not my favorite from Ms. Derr.
In Despair ends the Princes of the Blood trilogy that started with Of Last Resort. The story opens in “present” time – which gives readers the state of continuity after the event that happened in the first book. Korin is in a deep coma and Telmé has pretty much stepped down from his position as Commander of the Legion to take care of his husband. Then the story moves backward to where Telmé and Korin were still in their teens, the beginning of their life-long relationship.
I still have the same issues I had with the previous two books – namely that I feel the world-building and the explanations stay firmly in the author’s head. Oh, I know more about Princes of the Blood now, including their Bloodling ritual. However, the other branches are still blurry to me – although I think Ms. Derr gives few explanations about Titans and Shadowmarch. This is my main issue with this series, that it being some sort of fantasy, I still end up not knowing much about it.
My other issue here is the age of the main characters. Being so young – Telmé is 17 years old while Korin is 15 years old – the story is filled with teenaged melodrama and angst. Including the fighting, the jealousy, the crying… I am not opposed to characters shedding tears but I can’t say I have patience for it either. These characters feel young and act young. Also, the mystery is rather weak. There is no big twist about the villains since the crumbs that Ms. Derr gave are plenty.
Having said that, I still think it’s a good read. When Telmé and Korin are not fighting, when they finally realize that they don’t actually hate each other, when they realize what they feel for one another, those moments are a treasure. I love their conversation at those times. Even if in most of the book, Telmé and Korin are pretty much separated – with Telmé going out to kill monsters after being the sole Princes of the Blood.
In addition, the opening and ending the story in ‘present’ state gives readers closure. I love those two chapters, it is a testament of how strong Telmé and Korin’s love is, after twenty seven years. It also reminds me slightly of a similar plot I read in a historical M/F long time ago when I was younger, where the heroine was determined to be with her husband who was in a coma.
And I do have to say that Ms. Derr has quite the imagination – what with the ritual, the branches, and the monsters. The adventure is great to read. Oh, and also, despite the huge number of casualties, how Ms. Derr writes never goes to a ‘gory’ situation, which I appreciate even if I can sometimes like goriness in my story…
All in all, it is a good ending of the trilogy even if the trilogy itself is not my favorite from Ms. Derr.
August 5, 2014
Telmé and Korin are betrothed. One to lead the military, the other to head the religious order.
Fantasy is one of my favorite genres and this was enjoyable. Told from Telmé’s point of view, we see how he goes from undisciplined brat to undisputed leader. It is one that is filled with tragedy and challenge, both internal and external. I loved the look back to their youth before they had overwhelming responsibilities and would snipe and torment each other. How he and Korin interact and how they finally come together to lead their sects for Tria Noor. Their scenes are the show stealers in this book.
The plot isn’t complicated and solving the mystery element is simple, but the story itself is entertaining for the adventure value. Issues and quibbles with the book revolve around the miscommunication trope that is explained somewhat by the plot and their youth, but is still not a favored device of mine. Aggravates me to read it. Second, the structure of the story starts in the future and then does a retrospective, which is fine, but there are elements revealed in the “future” portion of the story that are never resolved so I’m going to assume it is addressed in subsequent books. More unsettling is the fact that we never get to the point in time where the book starts, it just ends the story segment, but never ties in the beginning so why is it there? Annoying. Finally, there is a throw in the kitchen sink attitude to the creatures introduced. It’s almost like one needs a monster manual to read it. We are given details for creatures we spend less than a paragraph with. It’s an inelegant info dump for world building. The beginning/prologue is a rocky start with five characters introduced and with above mentioned issues make a stronger case for it not being there is the first place. It confuses the story and provides no value except the briefest commentary on the story about to be told—just tell the story.
Overall, this story's plot reads more along the lines of a YA novel than adult. I enjoyed it even lacking the complexity because Korin and Telmé are charming characters.
~~A copy was provided to me for a No Glitter Blown review~~
~~~Reviewed for Hearts On Fire Reviews~~~
Fantasy is one of my favorite genres and this was enjoyable. Told from Telmé’s point of view, we see how he goes from undisciplined brat to undisputed leader. It is one that is filled with tragedy and challenge, both internal and external. I loved the look back to their youth before they had overwhelming responsibilities and would snipe and torment each other. How he and Korin interact and how they finally come together to lead their sects for Tria Noor. Their scenes are the show stealers in this book.
The plot isn’t complicated and solving the mystery element is simple, but the story itself is entertaining for the adventure value. Issues and quibbles with the book revolve around the miscommunication trope that is explained somewhat by the plot and their youth, but is still not a favored device of mine. Aggravates me to read it. Second, the structure of the story starts in the future and then does a retrospective, which is fine, but there are elements revealed in the “future” portion of the story that are never resolved so I’m going to assume it is addressed in subsequent books. More unsettling is the fact that we never get to the point in time where the book starts, it just ends the story segment, but never ties in the beginning so why is it there? Annoying. Finally, there is a throw in the kitchen sink attitude to the creatures introduced. It’s almost like one needs a monster manual to read it. We are given details for creatures we spend less than a paragraph with. It’s an inelegant info dump for world building. The beginning/prologue is a rocky start with five characters introduced and with above mentioned issues make a stronger case for it not being there is the first place. It confuses the story and provides no value except the briefest commentary on the story about to be told—just tell the story.
Overall, this story's plot reads more along the lines of a YA novel than adult. I enjoyed it even lacking the complexity because Korin and Telmé are charming characters.
~~A copy was provided to me for a No Glitter Blown review~~
~~~Reviewed for Hearts On Fire Reviews~~~
August 10, 2014
Lessons learned in the past influence the future in powerful ways. This fact is especially true for Telmé and Korin, as their past changed them in exceptional ways.
IN DESPAIR picks up where the first book in this series, Of Last Resort, left off. Transitioning back in time, it then tells the tale of the traumatic sequence of events alluded to in the previous books that brought Telmé and Korin to where they are today.
Prince Telmé Guldbrandsen has been destined to become a Prince of the Blood since birth. His passion and dedication to his calling is second only to the powerful emotions he feels for his fiance and future husband, Korin. Love and hate are two sides of the same coin, and while he can't deny his attraction to Korin's physical appearance, Telmé is disgusted by Korin's haughty and prideful attitude.
As High Priest in training, Korin has spent years being groomed to lead the Temple of the Sacred Three. While peace and tranquility are essential to his calling, Korin can't seem to overcome the anger and resentment he feels towards his future husband. The man just can't seem to stop making Korin appear as a fool to those who are supposed to respect his future position.
Poised on the brink of adulthood, both young men are in imminent danger of causing irreparable damage to their already rocky relationship.
IN DESPAIR is my favorite in this series to date. With a slower pace than the previous books, it has the feel of a prequel in that it answers many of the questions readers may have had in regards to the history of the Princes of the Blood that had only been hinted at previously. It is the coming of age story of the two men we have gotten to know as the fierce and confident leaders of Tria Noor. The dramatic adventures I've come to expect from this series are contrasted with the raw emotionalism of Telmé and Korin's relationship. I couldn't have been more pleased with the way this series ended.
My OFFICIAL REVIEW written for The Romance Reviews
IN DESPAIR picks up where the first book in this series, Of Last Resort, left off. Transitioning back in time, it then tells the tale of the traumatic sequence of events alluded to in the previous books that brought Telmé and Korin to where they are today.
Prince Telmé Guldbrandsen has been destined to become a Prince of the Blood since birth. His passion and dedication to his calling is second only to the powerful emotions he feels for his fiance and future husband, Korin. Love and hate are two sides of the same coin, and while he can't deny his attraction to Korin's physical appearance, Telmé is disgusted by Korin's haughty and prideful attitude.
As High Priest in training, Korin has spent years being groomed to lead the Temple of the Sacred Three. While peace and tranquility are essential to his calling, Korin can't seem to overcome the anger and resentment he feels towards his future husband. The man just can't seem to stop making Korin appear as a fool to those who are supposed to respect his future position.
Poised on the brink of adulthood, both young men are in imminent danger of causing irreparable damage to their already rocky relationship.
IN DESPAIR is my favorite in this series to date. With a slower pace than the previous books, it has the feel of a prequel in that it answers many of the questions readers may have had in regards to the history of the Princes of the Blood that had only been hinted at previously. It is the coming of age story of the two men we have gotten to know as the fierce and confident leaders of Tria Noor. The dramatic adventures I've come to expect from this series are contrasted with the raw emotionalism of Telmé and Korin's relationship. I couldn't have been more pleased with the way this series ended.
My OFFICIAL REVIEW written for The Romance Reviews
July 8, 2014
To read my full review, please visit http://onsilverwingz.blogspot.com/201...
Torin is engaged to Telme but they don't get along and always fight. Telme is meant to be a Prince of the Blood and Torin, the High Priest. When a neighboring country's princess comes to visit and catches Telme's fancy, the majority of the League dies of poison. Torin and Telme need to work together to rebuild the League, catch the culprit, and figure out their relationship.
This is the long awaited continuation of Of Last Resort. It's best to read this after the first book in order to understand the characters and events leading to In Despair. This story starts right where the first book ended and then flashbacks to when Telme and Torin met as teenagers.
Telme and Torin used to hate each other but their feelings grew into love. The MCs are too young for others to acknowledge them but still try to do the right thing and protect each other and the League. This is a wonderful romance and the change from hate/rivalry to love is believable. I would say this is definitely more focused on romance than the previous two books. Even when Telme journeys away from Torin and fights through various challenges, he's always focused on his goals (of getting back to Korin and protecting his people) and is loyal to the League. The characters are very endearing and easy to relate to.
I enjoy reading this book immensely because even though the MCs get separated, they still have a connection and the story overall is focused on the development of their relationship while simultaneously saving their country. This is another exciting page-turner from Megan Derr and a must-read for those who enjoyed the first book and for fantasy fans.
*review copy received in exchange for an honest review*
Torin is engaged to Telme but they don't get along and always fight. Telme is meant to be a Prince of the Blood and Torin, the High Priest. When a neighboring country's princess comes to visit and catches Telme's fancy, the majority of the League dies of poison. Torin and Telme need to work together to rebuild the League, catch the culprit, and figure out their relationship.
This is the long awaited continuation of Of Last Resort. It's best to read this after the first book in order to understand the characters and events leading to In Despair. This story starts right where the first book ended and then flashbacks to when Telme and Torin met as teenagers.
Telme and Torin used to hate each other but their feelings grew into love. The MCs are too young for others to acknowledge them but still try to do the right thing and protect each other and the League. This is a wonderful romance and the change from hate/rivalry to love is believable. I would say this is definitely more focused on romance than the previous two books. Even when Telme journeys away from Torin and fights through various challenges, he's always focused on his goals (of getting back to Korin and protecting his people) and is loyal to the League. The characters are very endearing and easy to relate to.
I enjoy reading this book immensely because even though the MCs get separated, they still have a connection and the story overall is focused on the development of their relationship while simultaneously saving their country. This is another exciting page-turner from Megan Derr and a must-read for those who enjoyed the first book and for fantasy fans.
*review copy received in exchange for an honest review*
October 21, 2014
I do love Megan Derr books and this was just as good as I was hoping. The world in Princes of the blood is very interesting one and quite a dark place full of all kinds of odd and intriguing monsters. And they all want to eat you, or at least kill you just. And the Legion which is supposedly a force for good isn't much better always. It's dark and gritty world and the heroes are just as gritty as the world they are living in.
This third book tells the story of Telmé and Korin who are one of the central couples in the earlier books. In the present they are a force to be reckoned with, strong in their leadership and in their relationship both. But in this book they are barely adults, struggling with teenage insecurities, unstable emotions and the knowledge that someday they will be the leaders of their people and are supposed to act like it already. It's not easy when times are good and it's almost impossible when most of the castle inhabitants and the Legion are suddenly dead.
The story is mostly about Telmé and his struggles to become a real prince of the blood and how the survivors react and interact with him after his blooding. It's not a happy story and I cried so much when reading it, my heart was totally breaking for Telmé and how others treated him most of the book.
The ending was somewhat sudden and I would have liked to see more of what happened after the mystery of the poisonings was solved and how Telmé and Korin's relationship started to develop and stabilize.
I'm totally hoping for more books in the 'verse as I love it to pieces.
This third book tells the story of Telmé and Korin who are one of the central couples in the earlier books. In the present they are a force to be reckoned with, strong in their leadership and in their relationship both. But in this book they are barely adults, struggling with teenage insecurities, unstable emotions and the knowledge that someday they will be the leaders of their people and are supposed to act like it already. It's not easy when times are good and it's almost impossible when most of the castle inhabitants and the Legion are suddenly dead.
The story is mostly about Telmé and his struggles to become a real prince of the blood and how the survivors react and interact with him after his blooding. It's not a happy story and I cried so much when reading it, my heart was totally breaking for Telmé and how others treated him most of the book.
The ending was somewhat sudden and I would have liked to see more of what happened after the mystery of the poisonings was solved and how Telmé and Korin's relationship started to develop and stabilize.
I'm totally hoping for more books in the 'verse as I love it to pieces.
February 20, 2016
First resd July 2014
re-read Feb 2016
This is the third book in this series, but also in some ways the first...We were introduced to Teleme, the Commander of the Princes of the Blood and his husband, the High Priest, Korin, in the first book, and given glimpses throughout of their story.
This book goes on to tell exactly what happened and prior to the pair of them taking their positions, and what they went through to get there. The reader is used to seeing them in charge, so having them cast back to being adolescents (in both mind, body and behaviour) is a little jarring at first, but you get to know them as they get to know each other and battle with the horrors of what happens.
The end is, well, sudden. We don't see how the rest of the Princes of the Blood are selected and come to be, and there are a lot of unanswered questions from the present time. I am not sure whether the author has plans for any more of this series but I would like at least one more book to tie up all the unanswered questions.
re-read Feb 2016
This is the third book in this series, but also in some ways the first...We were introduced to Teleme, the Commander of the Princes of the Blood and his husband, the High Priest, Korin, in the first book, and given glimpses throughout of their story.
This book goes on to tell exactly what happened and prior to the pair of them taking their positions, and what they went through to get there. The reader is used to seeing them in charge, so having them cast back to being adolescents (in both mind, body and behaviour) is a little jarring at first, but you get to know them as they get to know each other and battle with the horrors of what happens.
The end is, well, sudden. We don't see how the rest of the Princes of the Blood are selected and come to be, and there are a lot of unanswered questions from the present time. I am not sure whether the author has plans for any more of this series but I would like at least one more book to tie up all the unanswered questions.
June 25, 2014
F*CK yes.
Now I want to go read the rest of the series.
Only thing I wasn't keen on was the whole bit where it seems priests have sex with other people as part of their priestly duties (my own personal hangup, oh well), but that wasn't dwelled upon, and was probably explained in earlier books.
Some readers may be a bit bothered by the fact the protagonists are "underage" for most of the book, but in their world, it obviously wasn't an issue, so it wasn't an issue for me either.
Damn this was good though.
Full review to follow.
Now I want to go read the rest of the series.
Only thing I wasn't keen on was the whole bit where it seems priests have sex with other people as part of their priestly duties (my own personal hangup, oh well), but that wasn't dwelled upon, and was probably explained in earlier books.
Some readers may be a bit bothered by the fact the protagonists are "underage" for most of the book, but in their world, it obviously wasn't an issue, so it wasn't an issue for me either.
Damn this was good though.
Full review to follow.
July 7, 2018
Good end to the series
4 ⭐️
Good end to the series. I enjoyed seeing Telme and Korin and how they came to be together.
It did seem weird at times as when we were introduced to both characters they were so confident and well versed in their positions, so it was weird to go back in time and see them both so unsure of themselves and their positions.
I still wish for some more information at the end as to the ending and think Telme is a very strong character to be able to move past all that was done to him.
Enjoyed the whole series but the first one will always be my favourite
4 ⭐️
Good end to the series. I enjoyed seeing Telme and Korin and how they came to be together.
It did seem weird at times as when we were introduced to both characters they were so confident and well versed in their positions, so it was weird to go back in time and see them both so unsure of themselves and their positions.
I still wish for some more information at the end as to the ending and think Telme is a very strong character to be able to move past all that was done to him.
Enjoyed the whole series but the first one will always be my favourite
November 1, 2014
I would assume, since you're here, you've read books one and two in the series, and if you have, you probably don't need any input from me as to whether to take the series to its conclusion. (If you haven't, start here: Of Last Resort.)
This is another prequel, though unlike POTB2, this one has a token followup to the events that ended POTB1. After that initial prologue, though, we're back in the past, this time to see through the eyes of Prince Telme.
One difference between this book and the other two is that this time, we stick with one character throughout. That's something that bothered me quite a bit about the other books; either the author should switch often enough that we can grow with both characters and not get disoriented by a POV change, or the author should pick a character and stay there. It particularly bothered me in POTB2, since we skipped over some exciting bits of story looking through the eyes of the other person. So that's a mark in its favor for sure.
Derr picked a good point in the world's history to focus on. Plenty of tantalizing hints about Prince Telme's earliest history were dropped in POTB1 & 2, and it was even wilder than I expected.
Less in this one's favor is how much more juvenile the story feels. Telme is younger than the other characters were, by necessity, but it shows. This wasn't like the stories about a 20-something, young and untried but still unquestionably adult. This was a story about a kid - doing the best he could but still unquestionably a kid. A scared, petulant, immature kid I occasionally wanted to smack. Even though I'm a bit disappointed that we didn't get another adult viewpoint, I'm actually pretty impressed at how Derr could write someone so young and have it sound true to life. I talk about the story being juvenile, but the story wouldn't have worked with a character more experienced in life and people and relationships. It's a real coming of age...and it's an impressive one since the Telme we met earlier is so adult and in control.
Between the age factor and the general theme, where Telme ends up doing more than just fighting the obvious bad guys, turns the tone of this book into something rather different from the first two. Not in a bad way.
Probably the most unsatisfying part of the book is the ending. I'm talking about the flashback to the past, too, not the present-day framework that ties up the story arc from book one. If you didn't expand the spoiler, the gist is that it ends abruptly and with zero closure. It felt rushed, it felt lazy, and I expected better. There's no way this book could have gotten five stars from me for this ending.
Really, there was no question that I'd read this book; I regard Megan Derr as a fantastic author, and even though the world she created here has frustrated me to no end (which I elaborated on particularly in my review for the first book), it still blew me away despite myself. More than anything else, I'm finding myself just a bit wistful that the series is over. I'm not ready to leave it behind yet...and if that's not a good testimonial, I don't know what is.
This is another prequel, though unlike POTB2, this one has a token followup to the events that ended POTB1. After that initial prologue, though, we're back in the past, this time to see through the eyes of Prince Telme.
One difference between this book and the other two is that this time, we stick with one character throughout. That's something that bothered me quite a bit about the other books; either the author should switch often enough that we can grow with both characters and not get disoriented by a POV change, or the author should pick a character and stay there. It particularly bothered me in POTB2, since we skipped over some exciting bits of story looking through the eyes of the other person. So that's a mark in its favor for sure.
Derr picked a good point in the world's history to focus on. Plenty of tantalizing hints about Prince Telme's earliest history were dropped in POTB1 & 2, and it was even wilder than I expected.
Less in this one's favor is how much more juvenile the story feels. Telme is younger than the other characters were, by necessity, but it shows. This wasn't like the stories about a 20-something, young and untried but still unquestionably adult. This was a story about a kid - doing the best he could but still unquestionably a kid. A scared, petulant, immature kid I occasionally wanted to smack. Even though I'm a bit disappointed that we didn't get another adult viewpoint, I'm actually pretty impressed at how Derr could write someone so young and have it sound true to life. I talk about the story being juvenile, but the story wouldn't have worked with a character more experienced in life and people and relationships. It's a real coming of age...and it's an impressive one since the Telme we met earlier is so adult and in control.
Between the age factor and the general theme, where Telme ends up doing more than just fighting the obvious bad guys, turns the tone of this book into something rather different from the first two. Not in a bad way.
Probably the most unsatisfying part of the book is the ending. I'm talking about the flashback to the past, too, not the present-day framework that ties up the story arc from book one. If you didn't expand the spoiler, the gist is that it ends abruptly and with zero closure. It felt rushed, it felt lazy, and I expected better. There's no way this book could have gotten five stars from me for this ending.
Really, there was no question that I'd read this book; I regard Megan Derr as a fantastic author, and even though the world she created here has frustrated me to no end (which I elaborated on particularly in my review for the first book), it still blew me away despite myself. More than anything else, I'm finding myself just a bit wistful that the series is over. I'm not ready to leave it behind yet...and if that's not a good testimonial, I don't know what is.
October 17, 2014
It was mentioned in 'Of Last Resort' how, and I quote: "twenty-some years ago, nearly all the Legion had been slain, including all of the Princes of the Blood save one: Telmé, who had only been a boy at the time." After reading that part, I wanted to read 'In Despair' right away. The Princes of the Blood were the Queen's most powerful and most "notorious" among her Legion so naturally I wanted to know how the princes were killed. The third installment of the series mostly revolved around that incident and I found myself wanting to read more about the current Telmé (the Commander of the Princes of the Blood) and Korin (his husband, the High Priest). You see, the 'current' Korin was mostly in a 'coma' for the most part of the book up until the ending. I thought the book ended perfectly, but I'm hoping that the 'current' Telmé and Korin will have their own 'short' (story) too.
With that said, I thought the young versions of Telmé and Korin fighting most of the time was cute. But the part that I loved the most in this book was Telmé's despair. How he found himself helpless and unable to do anything as he watched the love of his life sleep day after day. That, and his despair during the incident twenty-seven years ago when the princes he considered his brothers were slain. His pain for losing his loved ones and the pain he felt for being alone was so acute and so raw. It isn't easy to deal with the loss of a loved one, nor is it easy to watch and feel helpless while a loved one is suffering.
And this is exactly why I love Megan. It's not just her endless imagination and ability to build awesome worlds such as in the Princes of the Blood series, or the way she was able to incorporate romance and action scenes in her complicated stories, but also because her works have themes, too.
With that said, I thought the young versions of Telmé and Korin fighting most of the time was cute. But the part that I loved the most in this book was Telmé's despair. How he found himself helpless and unable to do anything as he watched the love of his life sleep day after day. That, and his despair during the incident twenty-seven years ago when the princes he considered his brothers were slain. His pain for losing his loved ones and the pain he felt for being alone was so acute and so raw. It isn't easy to deal with the loss of a loved one, nor is it easy to watch and feel helpless while a loved one is suffering.
And this is exactly why I love Megan. It's not just her endless imagination and ability to build awesome worlds such as in the Princes of the Blood series, or the way she was able to incorporate romance and action scenes in her complicated stories, but also because her works have themes, too.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 21, 2014
A Joyfully Jay review.
5 stars
Oh my god! You guys, I’ve loved this series from the very beginning—I mean absolutely everything. But this final book in the trilogy couldn’t have been more perfect. From Of Last Resort and into With Pride, we’ve heard of Telmé and Korin and their struggle as children to rebuild a kingdom struck by tragedy. And finally—finally!—we get that story, and what a story it is. It’s amazing, and it’s so hard for me not to tell you absolutely everything about this story because I loved it so much. SO much! So here I go… trying not to give too much away.
In Despair is the perfect title for this book in more ways than one. This book begins eleven months after Of Last Resort ends with Korin still unconscious but alive. Telmé is at his side every day, already handing over the reins of the Princes to Raffé. Telmé awaits whatever tragedy is to come. While waiting with Korin, he remembers the tragedy of his past, of their past—the fight they put up, the struggle they face, and the battle they won. Despair has colored their pasts and their current situation.
Read Crissy's review in its entirety here.
5 stars
Oh my god! You guys, I’ve loved this series from the very beginning—I mean absolutely everything. But this final book in the trilogy couldn’t have been more perfect. From Of Last Resort and into With Pride, we’ve heard of Telmé and Korin and their struggle as children to rebuild a kingdom struck by tragedy. And finally—finally!—we get that story, and what a story it is. It’s amazing, and it’s so hard for me not to tell you absolutely everything about this story because I loved it so much. SO much! So here I go… trying not to give too much away.
In Despair is the perfect title for this book in more ways than one. This book begins eleven months after Of Last Resort ends with Korin still unconscious but alive. Telmé is at his side every day, already handing over the reins of the Princes to Raffé. Telmé awaits whatever tragedy is to come. While waiting with Korin, he remembers the tragedy of his past, of their past—the fight they put up, the struggle they face, and the battle they won. Despair has colored their pasts and their current situation.
Read Crissy's review in its entirety here.
August 5, 2014
3.5 Stars
So in book 4, we revisit Telmé and Korin and learn their history. It's bloody and brutal. I enjoyed this book but it left me wanting. Why? Too many loose ends!
My rant notwithstanding, I can honestly attest that this was a wonderful series. I was amazed with the world building and the colorful characters Megan Derr created.
Bottom line: Enthralling despite the loose ends.
So in book 4, we revisit Telmé and Korin and learn their history. It's bloody and brutal. I enjoyed this book but it left me wanting. Why? Too many loose ends!
My rant notwithstanding, I can honestly attest that this was a wonderful series. I was amazed with the world building and the colorful characters Megan Derr created.
Bottom line: Enthralling despite the loose ends.
July 11, 2014
Rating: 5 stars out of 5
One of ScatteredThoughtsandRogueWords Best of 2014: Princes of the Blood Series
From my review: "As with all marvelous coming of age stories that include high adventure and fantasy, it must also include the darkness of evil and absolute loss. As Castle Guldbrandsen falls under the destructive powers of both, Telme' and Koren must pull together, grow up (somewhat) and assume the duties they have been avoiding. It's a timeless, dramatic concept and Derr's treatment of it and her characters growth is as compelling as they come. That's possible because no matter what challenges these boys face or hurdles they must overcome, they remain the teenagers they are. .."
For my full review, visit http://wp.me/p220KL-2EF
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March 19, 2015
This is the story of how Telme and Korin came to be the people that they are. It's a story about magic and love, and standing up for what's right even when the people you expect to have your back reject you. The story was painful and heartbreaking but worth every minute reading it.
Telme and Korin begin as brats. They are a constant disappointment to their superiors with their fighting and inability to get along, even though they are betrothed. I loved seeing their relationship grow into true respect and affection. This book is non-explicit since it takes place when the characters are young: sixteen and seventeen, respectively.
I had a wonderful time reading In Despair and I hope that Mrs. Derr will write more in the series some day.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the free review copy.
Telme and Korin begin as brats. They are a constant disappointment to their superiors with their fighting and inability to get along, even though they are betrothed. I loved seeing their relationship grow into true respect and affection. This book is non-explicit since it takes place when the characters are young: sixteen and seventeen, respectively.
I had a wonderful time reading In Despair and I hope that Mrs. Derr will write more in the series some day.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the free review copy.
December 26, 2016
This particular order of the series didn't work for me, unfortunately. I wish I read it backwards.
*
THIS IS NOT A REVIEW!
These are just my feels. They are so strong that I have an urge to spill them for all to see:
The two teenage boys, the MCs, Korin, 15 and Telme, 16, cried through the entire book until the very end where they are what ...40+? I almost had a breakdown myself just out of the sheer frustration.
But if you don't mind the teenage drama and buckets of tears, this book might be OK for you.
I would have easily given it 4 stars, but I am sorry, I just can't :/ 3 stars, but I will up it to 3.5 on Leafmarks and Booklikes.
*
THIS IS NOT A REVIEW!
These are just my feels. They are so strong that I have an urge to spill them for all to see:
The two teenage boys, the MCs, Korin, 15 and Telme, 16, cried through the entire book until the very end where they are what ...40+? I almost had a breakdown myself just out of the sheer frustration.
But if you don't mind the teenage drama and buckets of tears, this book might be OK for you.
I would have easily given it 4 stars, but I am sorry, I just can't :/ 3 stars, but I will up it to 3.5 on Leafmarks and Booklikes.
January 20, 2015
Loved this!! I was scared going into this because I was told it was sad, and although that is true, it wasn't sad in the way I feared. Some of the scenes made my heart ache for the MCs, others made me proud of Thelme and Korin. I really loved getting to know these two as teenagers and adults, great characters!
September 12, 2014
freaking amazing!!!!! I'm like holding back tears I'm so happy :) Korin woke up!! I was literally on edge about that. Now the flashback story was fab! Telme and Korin were my 2nd fav couple from book 1 so it was nice to read about them. Also it was cool to hear about the massacre that happened at the Legion. That story was sad especially how depressed Telme was throughout the book, but the strength and power Korin and Telme possessed was astounding. The things they accomplished! And Telme's blooding is one for the history books. This entire series will definitely be a reread. And I will hope and pray from more books ;)
March 3, 2015
4 1/2 stars because I posted three times from the book. Haven't done that in a long time.
September 16, 2018
Having read With Pride by Megan Derr, I was excited to see more of the world in the third book in the series, In Despair (I have still not gotten a copy of the first book in the series, but I will eventually because I need to know what happened in that one). As many people will know, Derr is one of my favorite authors, and this world is one of her bests.
In Despair follows High Prince Telmé and his husband High Priest Korin, two of my favorite characters from With Pride, back when they were training for their roles. Prince Telmé is being trained to be a Prince of Blood and Commander of the Legion, however he would have an easier time if actually got along with his betrothed, Korin. They bring out the worst in each other, yet when disaster strikes Castle Guldbrandsen, they must band together to save everyone, and possible pave the way to a happier life together.
Like With Pride, I really enjoyed this book. It was a little hard for me at first, in that the first chapter starts later than With Pride, however, the majority of the book takes place 27 years prior to this. So I was a little confused as I was expecting it all from the past, but once I realized what was happening it worked. It was interesting to see the bond between the two characters grow and strengthen, and get hints at the people we know they turn into.
As with the previous book, the world building is interesting and dark, which means I loved it. We were allowed to see a little more about the Princes of Blood and why pairings are so important for them. Honestly, this is one of my favorite parts. And now I really cannot wait to get my hands on the first book in this series. This book will be living with the previous one on my e-reader!
Final Verdict: A great quick read, with great insight into some awesome characters whilst still expanding the amazing, dark fantasy world.
Originally posted: https://francesandlynne.wordpress.com...
In Despair follows High Prince Telmé and his husband High Priest Korin, two of my favorite characters from With Pride, back when they were training for their roles. Prince Telmé is being trained to be a Prince of Blood and Commander of the Legion, however he would have an easier time if actually got along with his betrothed, Korin. They bring out the worst in each other, yet when disaster strikes Castle Guldbrandsen, they must band together to save everyone, and possible pave the way to a happier life together.
Like With Pride, I really enjoyed this book. It was a little hard for me at first, in that the first chapter starts later than With Pride, however, the majority of the book takes place 27 years prior to this. So I was a little confused as I was expecting it all from the past, but once I realized what was happening it worked. It was interesting to see the bond between the two characters grow and strengthen, and get hints at the people we know they turn into.
As with the previous book, the world building is interesting and dark, which means I loved it. We were allowed to see a little more about the Princes of Blood and why pairings are so important for them. Honestly, this is one of my favorite parts. And now I really cannot wait to get my hands on the first book in this series. This book will be living with the previous one on my e-reader!
Final Verdict: A great quick read, with great insight into some awesome characters whilst still expanding the amazing, dark fantasy world.
Originally posted: https://francesandlynne.wordpress.com...
February 13, 2023
4.5 stars, rounded down because I had to skim a section I'd seen coming long before.
This one is a particularly rough read because, for many chapters, the reader (this reader, anyway) understands what neither main character does. I also skimmed a later part as I'd seen this coming long ago. Good worldbuilding, though. I realize the MCs are young, and demonstrably uncertain of their own worth, and sorely lacking in trust, but must they also be so dumb at basic compare-and-contrast. I found that not so much tense as frustrating. And YET, the climax scene is worth it. Very worth it.
The interesting thing about this trilogy is that each story primarily occurs before the previous one, except for the frame around this one. Very interesting structure. I grok exactly why Derr did it this way. Overall, this was a five-star series for me.
This one is a particularly rough read because, for many chapters, the reader (this reader, anyway) understands what neither main character does. I also skimmed a later part as I'd seen this coming long ago. Good worldbuilding, though. I realize the MCs are young, and demonstrably uncertain of their own worth, and sorely lacking in trust, but must they also be so dumb at basic compare-and-contrast. I found that not so much tense as frustrating. And YET, the climax scene is worth it. Very worth it.
The interesting thing about this trilogy is that each story primarily occurs before the previous one, except for the frame around this one. Very interesting structure. I grok exactly why Derr did it this way. Overall, this was a five-star series for me.
October 31, 2018
I really like the world setting and I want to know more about it- especially the origins of Shadowmarch and the rest of the Legion.
This book starts in present-where the first book left off, and moves to the past. What I really liked in this book was how both Telme and Korin grow from being absolute brats to responsible people that we see in the earlier books. The second half of the book went super fast and I enjoyed it even though Telme and Korin were not together in the same place. Romance is secondary and in fantasies like this I really appreciate that.
This book starts in present-where the first book left off, and moves to the past. What I really liked in this book was how both Telme and Korin grow from being absolute brats to responsible people that we see in the earlier books. The second half of the book went super fast and I enjoyed it even though Telme and Korin were not together in the same place. Romance is secondary and in fantasies like this I really appreciate that.
October 12, 2023
This is mostly a look back at previous events. Two boys are always punching each other in the nose, but they secretly are upset that the other seems to hate them.
Traumatic events force them both to take responsibility at an early age.
A foreign sorceress tries to push them apart, and cause both of them to have doubts, despite their having earlier grown closer due to tragedy. Together, they defeat her.
Typos: a few minor ones and a couple of sentence. Fragments.
Traumatic events force them both to take responsibility at an early age.
A foreign sorceress tries to push them apart, and cause both of them to have doubts, despite their having earlier grown closer due to tragedy. Together, they defeat her.
Typos: a few minor ones and a couple of sentence. Fragments.
December 1, 2017
I still want more
This is such a gripping tale of loss and of love. It was hard to put down at night since I desperately wanted to know what happened next. It starts on the present then takes us back to the beginning of Korin and Telme's story. Now all I can say is...I want more please.
This is such a gripping tale of loss and of love. It was hard to put down at night since I desperately wanted to know what happened next. It starts on the present then takes us back to the beginning of Korin and Telme's story. Now all I can say is...I want more please.
February 27, 2018
It was a good read as an addition to the two books that came before it. It was nice to have a backstory and tie up a bit of the story from book one. My only complaint would be that the end conflict got resolved too quickly and seemed like a rush to the finish. But overall it was still very enjoyable to read.
December 16, 2018
3.5* for a decent ending to the series. Not as good as the Last Resort, but it was delightful to see the stoic commander Telme as the impatient, hot-tempered teenager. And thank gods Korin woke up! I was afraid it would remain unresolved as the trilogy goes backwards in time, but they got their HEA here and it was great!
January 25, 2019
I liked this book the least of the three in the series, because the protagonists were juveniles coming of age, and I'm a mature woman. But as an example of that type of romance, it was well written. The best aspect of the book was the magic, which was interesting and unique, and that's why the four str rating,
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December 16, 2018Klarer Fall von "Don't like, don't read", daher keine Wertung.
Ich habe erfahren was ich wissen wollte und damit ist es genug.
Teenager hab ich am Tisch zu sitzen, darüber muss ich nichts lesen ...
Ich habe erfahren was ich wissen wollte und damit ist es genug.
Teenager hab ich am Tisch zu sitzen, darüber muss ich nichts lesen ...
February 19, 2017
This was awesome!!!
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