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Elemental Paladins #2
Paladin
Alternate cover edition of ASIN B0866DMCCV
Honour. Duty. Loyalty. Control. These are the principles Darius lives by – almost to the point of obsession. They had forged him into a noble knight but had also cost him the woman of his dreams and wrought a non-relenting hatred for his personal nemeses; the shades.
When a tiny, redheaded, whirlwind of trouble descends upon him and his fellow knights in a flurry of questions and impossibilities, Darius finds himself struggling to reconcile his past values with his future desires.
For Diana, the arrival of Max brings with it a portent; revolution. As a paladin of death, acceptance is at her core. So embracing the sarcastic powerhouse as her sworn liege is easy. But embracing a certain air paladin who is a pathological rule-follower? Well, that isn’t so easy, despite the attraction they have shared for centuries.
With Darius confronted by his demons and a bitter Warden bent on exacting revenge, will the two knights ever reach their happily ever after?
Honour. Duty. Loyalty. Control. These are the principles Darius lives by – almost to the point of obsession. They had forged him into a noble knight but had also cost him the woman of his dreams and wrought a non-relenting hatred for his personal nemeses; the shades.
When a tiny, redheaded, whirlwind of trouble descends upon him and his fellow knights in a flurry of questions and impossibilities, Darius finds himself struggling to reconcile his past values with his future desires.
For Diana, the arrival of Max brings with it a portent; revolution. As a paladin of death, acceptance is at her core. So embracing the sarcastic powerhouse as her sworn liege is easy. But embracing a certain air paladin who is a pathological rule-follower? Well, that isn’t so easy, despite the attraction they have shared for centuries.
With Darius confronted by his demons and a bitter Warden bent on exacting revenge, will the two knights ever reach their happily ever after?
ebook
First published April 25, 2016
307 people are currently reading
603 people want to read
About the author
Montana Ash
20 books548 followersMontana is a self-confessed book junkie. Although she loves reading all genres from romance to crime fiction to sci fi, her not-so-guilty pleasure is paranormal romance. Alpha men, just a little bit damaged, and Alpha women who don't seem to know they need looking after, are a favourite combination of hers. Throw in some steamy sex scenes, a touch of humour, and a little violence and she is in heaven!
Her overactive (and overindulged) imagination could only take so much before the many voices wanted out. Thus, Montana's journey into the wonderful world of writing.
She is a scientist by day, having grown up in country New South Wales, Australia. Writing about ancient knights, demons and shapeshifters is such a delicious contradiction to her day job in the laboratory, that she doesn't see the voices stopping anytime soon!
Her overactive (and overindulged) imagination could only take so much before the many voices wanted out. Thus, Montana's journey into the wonderful world of writing.
She is a scientist by day, having grown up in country New South Wales, Australia. Writing about ancient knights, demons and shapeshifters is such a delicious contradiction to her day job in the laboratory, that she doesn't see the voices stopping anytime soon!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 145 reviews
February 10, 2017
I loved the first book - Max was feisty and funny, the gang dynamic worked perfectly and the romance balanced well with the underlying story. This picks up where the first book left off but sort of meanders along not really going anywhere. This is also supposed to focus on a new couple romantically but you could have fooled me. While we do mostly get Darius and Diana's POVs everything seems to be about Max. I can understand that she's basically what the storyline revolves around but it got a bit boring. And Max came across more like a child than a strong kickass woman.
Argh. Blah. What a big fat disappointment.
July 23, 2020
I’m gonna write one big review for the whole series, because I read the first few books very quickly :) also, since I decided to take a break after the fourth one (out of seven) I will update this review when I read next installments :) ok, so what can I tell you about it? :) well, I read the first three books one right after another within the span of three days :) the next one took me a bit longer and we shall see how fast I will inhale the rest of them in the future ;) originally I gave those stories a bit higher ratings, but after some thinking I decided to lower them to the ones you will see below… because as much as I did enjoyed them, they are just… not as good as some other books I’ve read… I also have no interest to pick them up and reread them, and that’s not a good sign… each book in this series focuses on a different couple, but there is a bigger story arch that we follow throughout all of them… also, we have a bigger core group of characters that appear in each story so even if each novel concentrates on a different duo, we still see all of our faves :) not gonna lie, I am still not sure why I read them so quickly… the writing style is not that great, each romance feels rushed and underdeveloped, there are some problematic issues and yet… here we are :) I have no real explanation for you :) I mean, I guess I do like the idea for the series and there are some definitely interesting twists in it, but all in all… not the best I read… oh well :) below you can find some of my thoughts about each of the book I read so far with the rating
Warden
3,5 stars
the beginning to the series, and so far my favourite installment, where we are introduced to our core group of characters… :) and I have to admit that I really liked Max, our heroine, ad her totally unfiltered mouth from the start :) Ryker on the other had was an ass most of it...
Paladin
2,5 stars
going into it I predicted it will be my least favourite book in the series and I am right so far ;) as much as I loved Diana, I really didn’t like how Darius treated her… and not even an addition of an absolutely cutest little puppy couldn't save this one for me…
Chade 3 stars
again, the romance between Cali and Dex was my least favourite part of the story, the only reason why it reached 3 stars was the development of the story and the informations we learned about the world and that some things may not be like we thought before…
Ranger 3 stars
Lark is my absolute favourite out of them all… I mean, a guy who loves to read, does yoga and dances??? be still my beating heart… *sighs and swoons* as much as I wanted to warm up to Ivy, it was hard… and even though I could really understood how not all of us are super warm and fluffy and open about their thoughts and emotions… trust me, I know that from personal experience… I wasn’t the fan of how she treated Lark throughout the majority of the book, before doing a total change of heart…
Custodian
haven’t read yet
Revolution
haven’t read yet
Reckoning
haven't read yet
I am still very curious to see where the story will go, so I will come back to it at some point, but after the underdeveloped romances and some ridiculous and eyerolling writing style, I need a break ;)
XOXO
A
Warden
3,5 stars
the beginning to the series, and so far my favourite installment, where we are introduced to our core group of characters… :) and I have to admit that I really liked Max, our heroine, ad her totally unfiltered mouth from the start :) Ryker on the other had was an ass most of it...
Paladin
2,5 stars
going into it I predicted it will be my least favourite book in the series and I am right so far ;) as much as I loved Diana, I really didn’t like how Darius treated her… and not even an addition of an absolutely cutest little puppy couldn't save this one for me…
Chade 3 stars
again, the romance between Cali and Dex was my least favourite part of the story, the only reason why it reached 3 stars was the development of the story and the informations we learned about the world and that some things may not be like we thought before…
Ranger 3 stars
Lark is my absolute favourite out of them all… I mean, a guy who loves to read, does yoga and dances??? be still my beating heart… *sighs and swoons* as much as I wanted to warm up to Ivy, it was hard… and even though I could really understood how not all of us are super warm and fluffy and open about their thoughts and emotions… trust me, I know that from personal experience… I wasn’t the fan of how she treated Lark throughout the majority of the book, before doing a total change of heart…
Custodian
haven’t read yet
Revolution
haven’t read yet
Reckoning
haven't read yet
I am still very curious to see where the story will go, so I will come back to it at some point, but after the underdeveloped romances and some ridiculous and eyerolling writing style, I need a break ;)
XOXO
A
November 19, 2017
Well another one bites the dust.
I adore this series for many reasons and while the first for me will probably always be my favourite of the series. This one is pretty great to.
In this instalment we get the story of Darius, the air paladin and Diana, the death paladin. They have been in love with eachother for over 800 years but through stubbornness neither one has made the moves.
Darius is from a long line of paladins and at over 1000 years old his need for order, for things to make sense and be done by the book are almost more important for his mentality than anything else. He is at breaking point with his life and his structure is in disarray causing him to act completely out of character. He's never one to let the control go so what happens when one fiesty death paladin and a tiny hurricane of a custodian comes reeking havoc on his structured life.
What I loved about this story is that while you do get a lot of Max and the other paladins amongst others .. it doesn't overwhelm Darius and Diana's story. I love that they finally get their happy ending!. The chemistry is on point and dragged out deliciously building up all the sexual tension having us on the end of our seats waiting for the pin to drop.
Their story most definitely isn't smooth sailing and boy did they have a journey. It broke my heart and fixed it back again. I sobbed, laughed till I cried. Shouted out in anger and happy danced my ass around the bed in glee. The plot only thickens with more crazy shit popping out and let me tell you its only getting better. I have a feeling I know where the next book is going and whom it is but all will be revealed soon hmmm.
On to the next.
xo
I adore this series for many reasons and while the first for me will probably always be my favourite of the series. This one is pretty great to.
In this instalment we get the story of Darius, the air paladin and Diana, the death paladin. They have been in love with eachother for over 800 years but through stubbornness neither one has made the moves.
Darius is from a long line of paladins and at over 1000 years old his need for order, for things to make sense and be done by the book are almost more important for his mentality than anything else. He is at breaking point with his life and his structure is in disarray causing him to act completely out of character. He's never one to let the control go so what happens when one fiesty death paladin and a tiny hurricane of a custodian comes reeking havoc on his structured life.
What I loved about this story is that while you do get a lot of Max and the other paladins amongst others .. it doesn't overwhelm Darius and Diana's story. I love that they finally get their happy ending!. The chemistry is on point and dragged out deliciously building up all the sexual tension having us on the end of our seats waiting for the pin to drop.
Their story most definitely isn't smooth sailing and boy did they have a journey. It broke my heart and fixed it back again. I sobbed, laughed till I cried. Shouted out in anger and happy danced my ass around the bed in glee. The plot only thickens with more crazy shit popping out and let me tell you its only getting better. I have a feeling I know where the next book is going and whom it is but all will be revealed soon hmmm.
On to the next.
xo
September 2, 2023
3.5/5.0
I enjoyed this story but not as much as the first book in this series. The set-up for all the books is very interesting and ultimately, I think, a successful choice. Consider… In reading the series synopsis one would think each book is almost a stand-alone featuring a different set of characters. That is somewhat misleading (thank heavens) because the series is really an ensemble series.
For example, the first book ends in a semi-cliffhanger with ALL kinds of open threads hanging in the Max and Ryker story. Because of that, I was REALLY concerned when I saw that this book is about Darius and Diana. BUT, although we do follow those two, the overall storyline still revolves around Max, her powers and what that means for their world as a whole. So it works! Very well, actually.
So why the three stars and not more? Well… with all that being said, I wasn’t that into the Darius and Diana storyline. I really liked Darius in the first book, but in this one, he came across as the cowardly lion, too set in his ways to change, too scared to even consider anything (and I mean ANYTHING) that doesn’t fit his very small opinions. I was kinda frustrated at Diana for putting up with him, even though her reasons were kinda understandable. SO - enjoyed the overall story, and am glad D and D are finally together and will absolutely keep reading. Too much awesomeness in the overall to anticipate not to!
I enjoyed this story but not as much as the first book in this series. The set-up for all the books is very interesting and ultimately, I think, a successful choice. Consider… In reading the series synopsis one would think each book is almost a stand-alone featuring a different set of characters. That is somewhat misleading (thank heavens) because the series is really an ensemble series.
For example, the first book ends in a semi-cliffhanger with ALL kinds of open threads hanging in the Max and Ryker story. Because of that, I was REALLY concerned when I saw that this book is about Darius and Diana. BUT, although we do follow those two, the overall storyline still revolves around Max, her powers and what that means for their world as a whole. So it works! Very well, actually.
So why the three stars and not more? Well… with all that being said, I wasn’t that into the Darius and Diana storyline. I really liked Darius in the first book, but in this one, he came across as the cowardly lion, too set in his ways to change, too scared to even consider anything (and I mean ANYTHING) that doesn’t fit his very small opinions. I was kinda frustrated at Diana for putting up with him, even though her reasons were kinda understandable. SO - enjoyed the overall story, and am glad D and D are finally together and will absolutely keep reading. Too much awesomeness in the overall to anticipate not to!
May 29, 2016
Five stars++++
I know it has been said that a series gets better as it goes along . Paladin knocked that saying out of the ballpark. I absolutely loved this book. I loved getting reacquainted with the characters and reading about how they progressed through the story. Can I just say that when Darius and Diana get together it gets hot. I have to admit that I had to put the book down and catch my breath a couple of times. The bar scene had me laughing out loud. I'm defiantly going to listen to milkshake too see what Darius was sing to. Oh my Gosh there's just so mush I loved about this book that I'm just going to say push the but button you won't regret it in fact you'll be sadden when it ends and you have to wait for the next one to be released. Montana Ash thank you for that amazing Dedication. Us minions believe in you!!!! YOU ROCK!!!!!
I know it has been said that a series gets better as it goes along . Paladin knocked that saying out of the ballpark. I absolutely loved this book. I loved getting reacquainted with the characters and reading about how they progressed through the story. Can I just say that when Darius and Diana get together it gets hot. I have to admit that I had to put the book down and catch my breath a couple of times. The bar scene had me laughing out loud. I'm defiantly going to listen to milkshake too see what Darius was sing to. Oh my Gosh there's just so mush I loved about this book that I'm just going to say push the but button you won't regret it in fact you'll be sadden when it ends and you have to wait for the next one to be released. Montana Ash thank you for that amazing Dedication. Us minions believe in you!!!! YOU ROCK!!!!!
April 2, 2018
I'm so digging this series... I love how the authors is telling a story base on our main heroine Max character but telling the story from other people in her Order different POV's...
Okay so I'm off to read book 3 in series because it's becoming to addictive to do anything else but jump right in where this story left off... So bye for now..
Ahhh the joy of Kindle e- books😍😍😍
Overall rating:
4*~A Very Good Read
Okay so I'm off to read book 3 in series because it's becoming to addictive to do anything else but jump right in where this story left off... So bye for now..
Ahhh the joy of Kindle e- books😍😍😍
Overall rating:
4*~A Very Good Read
April 5, 2020
2nd read: 2020
1st read : 2017
This is the second book of the ‘Elemental Paladins’ series and ‘Paladin’ is a great follow-up story of ‘Warden’. I loved it just as much as the first one. This series has humor and some really great characters. I love the friendship and the no nonsense attitude of Max. Every character in this story bring his own unique self to the story.
This story is about Diana and Darius. Both are paladins and both have feelings for each other, since the first moment they met 800 years ago. Sadly Darius denied his feelings for Diana then. Diana swore that if he wanted her, Darius had to come to her and ask. But Darius is a very stubborn man, a man who lives by rules and personal codes. But with the arriving of Max, everything is changing. Max isn’t only changing them but is also questioning everything their society stands for. Something that Darius finds every hard to handle and when Max opens an old wound, Darius quickly loses his control of himself and his emotions!
Diana had always hoped that one day Darius would accept her and his feelings for her but she’s still waiting for that day. But now that things are changing in their lives and world, Diana hopes that maybe other things will change too. But the pressure that these changes bring for Darius could be too much. The chance is big that Darius could lose control not only of the situation but also of himself and that could be very dangerous. And if that isn’t bad enough, there’s also an angry warden walking around with a grudge against Max. Can Diana save Darius and Max or will she lose one or both of them?!
I loved this story just as much as the first story. You had the same people in it but also a few new faces. Max is still the sassy and loveable woman and in this book we get the love story of Diana and Darius. Both are warriors but they are also more. Darius is also an intelligent man who loves history and stars. Diana may be a warrior but she also loves fashion. Both had lieges before but they lost them. Something that’s very hurtful for a paladin.
I loved both character very much. And I’m sooooo looking forward to the next book in this series!
1st read : 2017
This is the second book of the ‘Elemental Paladins’ series and ‘Paladin’ is a great follow-up story of ‘Warden’. I loved it just as much as the first one. This series has humor and some really great characters. I love the friendship and the no nonsense attitude of Max. Every character in this story bring his own unique self to the story.
This story is about Diana and Darius. Both are paladins and both have feelings for each other, since the first moment they met 800 years ago. Sadly Darius denied his feelings for Diana then. Diana swore that if he wanted her, Darius had to come to her and ask. But Darius is a very stubborn man, a man who lives by rules and personal codes. But with the arriving of Max, everything is changing. Max isn’t only changing them but is also questioning everything their society stands for. Something that Darius finds every hard to handle and when Max opens an old wound, Darius quickly loses his control of himself and his emotions!
Diana had always hoped that one day Darius would accept her and his feelings for her but she’s still waiting for that day. But now that things are changing in their lives and world, Diana hopes that maybe other things will change too. But the pressure that these changes bring for Darius could be too much. The chance is big that Darius could lose control not only of the situation but also of himself and that could be very dangerous. And if that isn’t bad enough, there’s also an angry warden walking around with a grudge against Max. Can Diana save Darius and Max or will she lose one or both of them?!
I loved this story just as much as the first story. You had the same people in it but also a few new faces. Max is still the sassy and loveable woman and in this book we get the love story of Diana and Darius. Both are warriors but they are also more. Darius is also an intelligent man who loves history and stars. Diana may be a warrior but she also loves fashion. Both had lieges before but they lost them. Something that’s very hurtful for a paladin.
I loved both character very much. And I’m sooooo looking forward to the next book in this series!
June 23, 2016
What can I say? After reading Warden (Book One in the Elemental Paladins series) I was hooked! I'd cried in parts, literally laughed out loud in others and I'd fallen head-over-heels for the feisty Warden Max and her new family of misfit knights. My only concern about reading Paladin was that it couldn't possibly meet the lofty heights of its predecessor and I knew it must fall just short of the pedestal I'd erected specifically for Warden.Well, for once I was wrong. Furthermore, I'm ecstatic about being wrong because Paladin is phenomenal! Now I get to bake my cake as well as eat it because in Paladin I still get loads of Max's wit and unorthodox personality and I still follow her and Ryker's love story, but, I also get to know Diana and Darius a whole lot better (and who could have imagined that by-the-book, courtly Darius would get drunk in a karaoke bar and sing Milkshake?!?!). Basically, I need a larger pedestal because Montana Ash is blazing a new trail in the sometimes run-of-the-mill, formulaic world of paranormal romance.
August 3, 2019
Another great Elemental Paladins book. This is a true ensemble cast. Whilst Max is the focus, everyone is equally important, especially for the revolution that's coming.
Darius, the Air Paladin, is the only one concerned by the fact that Max is a Custodian. He comes from a long line of Paladins & is 1300 yrs old. He craves order and rules and structure and the fact that there isn't any precedent for a 'fleshy' Custodian is driving him crazy.
Diana, the Death Paladin, has been in love with Darius for 800 yrs, though that doesn't stop her seeing his faults.
It was nice seeing them get their HEA after so long. And nice seeing Ignatius getting beat up.
It will be interesting watching Max shake up the Paladin & Warden world, and what will happen to the Chades with souls.
Darius, the Air Paladin, is the only one concerned by the fact that Max is a Custodian. He comes from a long line of Paladins & is 1300 yrs old. He craves order and rules and structure and the fact that there isn't any precedent for a 'fleshy' Custodian is driving him crazy.
Diana, the Death Paladin, has been in love with Darius for 800 yrs, though that doesn't stop her seeing his faults.
It was nice seeing them get their HEA after so long. And nice seeing Ignatius getting beat up.
It will be interesting watching Max shake up the Paladin & Warden world, and what will happen to the Chades with souls.
August 17, 2016
What a sequel! What a book. What a series. It really gives me the warm and fuzzies.
I had high hopes for this second instalment because I pretty much fell in love with the first book. I fell further in love, with this one, if that's even possible. I cannot express how annoyed and wallowing in despair I am that the next book has not even been published yet. I feel like crying.
Please, if you're on the fence about it, don't be. It's a brilliant series and just getting started so give it a go. You won't be disappointed!
Happy Reading :-)
I had high hopes for this second instalment because I pretty much fell in love with the first book. I fell further in love, with this one, if that's even possible. I cannot express how annoyed and wallowing in despair I am that the next book has not even been published yet. I feel like crying.
Please, if you're on the fence about it, don't be. It's a brilliant series and just getting started so give it a go. You won't be disappointed!
Happy Reading :-)
June 17, 2016
'Paladin' is #2 in the series by Montana Ash. I was partially disappointed that, while still in third person, this book shifted gears and told the story from Darius' point of view (still in third person). I wanted to read more about Ryker and Max but, once it picked up a little more I quickly got into the story.
The good thing--since Sir Darius is the more uptight, orderly member of the group we don't hear quite so many euphemisms for a boner this time. Not that I don't enjoy hearing about that every now and then but I was beginning to wonder if she was (Ms Ash) a bit obsessed. So she is able to switch gears and be a bit more serious. ;)
It doesn't leave off on a total cliffhanger that makes you go WTF but...you still want to come back for more.
Still loving this series; can't wait until 'Chade' (#3). A very creative, engaging take on the elements, magic and warriors. Thoroughly enjoyed.
Some very minor spelling and formatting errors/typos but it's easily forgiven.
The good thing--since Sir Darius is the more uptight, orderly member of the group we don't hear quite so many euphemisms for a boner this time. Not that I don't enjoy hearing about that every now and then but I was beginning to wonder if she was (Ms Ash) a bit obsessed. So she is able to switch gears and be a bit more serious. ;)
It doesn't leave off on a total cliffhanger that makes you go WTF but...you still want to come back for more.
Still loving this series; can't wait until 'Chade' (#3). A very creative, engaging take on the elements, magic and warriors. Thoroughly enjoyed.
Some very minor spelling and formatting errors/typos but it's easily forgiven.
May 16, 2016
“I take it you’re not a fan of karaoke…”
“Absolutely not! Lucifer himself dreamt up that little peach of a nightmare. And it won’t die! It just won’t die I tell you!”
“Lucifer isn’t real, Max.”
“Oh yes he is! I’ve met him. And do you know where I met him? That’s right! It was in a karaoke bar! Never again! Oh no, never again…”
“Does this have something to do with the donkey and the train thing?”
“Hush! Quiet you! We do not speak of such things!"
Oh My God, the shear ridiculousness that is Max. I so want to know about this train and donkey thing. This is the second time in as many books that it’s come up and she still won’t say.
“Absolutely not! Lucifer himself dreamt up that little peach of a nightmare. And it won’t die! It just won’t die I tell you!”
“Lucifer isn’t real, Max.”
“Oh yes he is! I’ve met him. And do you know where I met him? That’s right! It was in a karaoke bar! Never again! Oh no, never again…”
“Does this have something to do with the donkey and the train thing?”
“Hush! Quiet you! We do not speak of such things!"
Oh My God, the shear ridiculousness that is Max. I so want to know about this train and donkey thing. This is the second time in as many books that it’s come up and she still won’t say.
May 26, 2020
The spine of this series is still Max, which it should be - I was kind of peeved when I realized this was following more of a PNR format with a different couple each book, because we had barely scratched the surface of what and who she is in the last book. I mean, book 1 literally ended with them telling her she's a Custodian, and her saying "huh?"
So if that was the end for her as a major character, I would likely have canned the series.
But she remains the major character in all books. There's just additional development of secondary characters and their relationships. It's a format I haven't seen before, but I'm enjoying it a lot. It's kind of an odd combo of UF and PNR.
So if that was the end for her as a major character, I would likely have canned the series.
But she remains the major character in all books. There's just additional development of secondary characters and their relationships. It's a format I haven't seen before, but I'm enjoying it a lot. It's kind of an odd combo of UF and PNR.
April 26, 2016
Love This Series!!
So love this series with Max, Ryder and the rest if the gang. max sure knows how to shake things up! The only problem i have is how the books end just like the first book because it keeps you guessing how it would turn out! But now sooo can't wait for the next book to see the reaction of the council!.
So love this series with Max, Ryder and the rest if the gang. max sure knows how to shake things up! The only problem i have is how the books end just like the first book because it keeps you guessing how it would turn out! But now sooo can't wait for the next book to see the reaction of the council!.
April 26, 2016
I'll admit that I was a tad disappointed when I realised this wasn't from Max's POV like the last book (I think she's hilarious and super interesting). But I loved getting to know more about Darius and Diana, and there was still enough of Max and Ryker for me to be satisfied. Loved this book and looking forward to more of this series!
May 28, 2016
Now oh yes it was awesome I enjoyed it very much and it was intriguing had some humor found out more about Max and the characters are fantastic and very excited for more...I would highly recommend it...I could not put it down
April 25, 2016
Great follow up
I was highly anticipating this book and it did not disappoint, second book in a series have a hard time living up to the first but this one did cant wait for more.
I was highly anticipating this book and it did not disappoint, second book in a series have a hard time living up to the first but this one did cant wait for more.
April 26, 2016
4,5 / 5
August 30, 2019
Fantastic follow up to Warden, which I absolutely loved. A great continuation to this series as we find out more about Darius, the stoic follower of rules and the Paladin of death, Diana.
Poor Darius struggled to come to terms with the revelations and theories and the upturning of his world by Max. He's sexy and stubborn as a mule, but his beautiful soul is hurting. Can Diana finally get through to him after 800 years? I spent the book alternating between wanting to hug him and shake him 😊
I think the pace was a little slower in this book, until it ramped up towards the end. There is so much potential for revolution!
I'm loving this series and am excited to read the next one, especially now Max's abilities are out in the open. 4.5 gripping stars
Poor Darius struggled to come to terms with the revelations and theories and the upturning of his world by Max. He's sexy and stubborn as a mule, but his beautiful soul is hurting. Can Diana finally get through to him after 800 years? I spent the book alternating between wanting to hug him and shake him 😊
I think the pace was a little slower in this book, until it ramped up towards the end. There is so much potential for revolution!
I'm loving this series and am excited to read the next one, especially now Max's abilities are out in the open. 4.5 gripping stars
December 18, 2021
4☆☆☆☆
Really liked that even though this is Darius and Diana's story I still got to read more about Max and Ry.
The story of the wardens go on and it gets soooo much more interesting. This series is light with a very fisty lead female. This book is no different. Diana is tough and stands her ground and I absolutely loved that.
1 thing I didn't like was how much they talked about max even though the main focus should have been their love for eachother BUTTTTTTT at the same time it kind of worked. Not really sure how to express this haha.
Well I loved this book and will be going on to the next. I'm a bit invested in trying to figure out more about these "phantoms".
Really liked that even though this is Darius and Diana's story I still got to read more about Max and Ry.
The story of the wardens go on and it gets soooo much more interesting. This series is light with a very fisty lead female. This book is no different. Diana is tough and stands her ground and I absolutely loved that.
1 thing I didn't like was how much they talked about max even though the main focus should have been their love for eachother BUTTTTTTT at the same time it kind of worked. Not really sure how to express this haha.
Well I loved this book and will be going on to the next. I'm a bit invested in trying to figure out more about these "phantoms".
August 2, 2023
ok
3.5 stars.
Re-read.
I liked the first book better. Each book continues the main story from the first but focuses on the relationship between different characters. I was less interested in the relationship between Darius and Diana. Again, I skimmed but liked where the book headed and how it ended. Though the ending was a little easier and less satisfying than I remembered.
3.5 stars.
Re-read.
I liked the first book better. Each book continues the main story from the first but focuses on the relationship between different characters. I was less interested in the relationship between Darius and Diana. Again, I skimmed but liked where the book headed and how it ended. Though the ending was a little easier and less satisfying than I remembered.
August 28, 2017
I preferred Max and Ryker's POVs from the first book, but still well written and fun.
On to the next book!
On to the next book!
November 25, 2017
First one is still my favorite, but this series seems to be quickly moving up my list.
August 30, 2018
IF YOU FOCUS ON DIANA AND DARIUS'S RELATIONSHIP, YOU WILL BE DISAPPOINTED BECAUSE THERE ISN'T MUCH INTERACTION. BUT, IF YOU ARE IN IT FOR THE WHOLE GANG...THEN THERE'S STILL HOPE.
OUR HERO is the ever so proper and organized Paladin who is over a 1000 years old. In this book, he's definitely not calm and controlled but rather developing a breakdown because everything that Max does doesn't fit into his mould and it doesn't help that she's breaking a lot of Order rules. Of course we get to see a different side of Darius here...and I thought he would be too uptight for sex but goddamn he proved me wrong when he gets down and dirty with Diana. BUT the asshole had to go and say sorry to her for taking his frustration out on her...when it was the first and best sex they had after 800 centuries. I laughed when he started dancing to Kelis's Milkshake.
OUR HEROINE is the ever so polished and damned beautiful, sophisticated Lady Diana. She's about the same age as Darius and when they first met, knew they were soul mates but Darius was too loyal and rigid to break the rules and denied them their relationship for 800 centuries. BOY, I would say that's stretching the limit though neither were faithful and had other lovers during the centuries. Huh. Hurt by Darius's rejection, Diana holds onto her pride and says that he will regret it and if he wants her, then he will have to be the one to grovel. Somehow, they ended up under Ryker's and begins their new journey with Max, a Custodian...whom you will know more if you read this.
OVERALL I still wasn't that happy about it all. The only good stuff from this are the cool powers and Max's Custodian status though still uncertain where she heralds from. The relationship between Darius and Diana BARELY had any interaction...i was a little put out and maybe felt cheated of a true romance.
OUR HERO is the ever so proper and organized Paladin who is over a 1000 years old. In this book, he's definitely not calm and controlled but rather developing a breakdown because everything that Max does doesn't fit into his mould and it doesn't help that she's breaking a lot of Order rules. Of course we get to see a different side of Darius here...and I thought he would be too uptight for sex but goddamn he proved me wrong when he gets down and dirty with Diana. BUT the asshole had to go and say sorry to her for taking his frustration out on her...when it was the first and best sex they had after 800 centuries. I laughed when he started dancing to Kelis's Milkshake.
OUR HEROINE is the ever so polished and damned beautiful, sophisticated Lady Diana. She's about the same age as Darius and when they first met, knew they were soul mates but Darius was too loyal and rigid to break the rules and denied them their relationship for 800 centuries. BOY, I would say that's stretching the limit though neither were faithful and had other lovers during the centuries. Huh. Hurt by Darius's rejection, Diana holds onto her pride and says that he will regret it and if he wants her, then he will have to be the one to grovel. Somehow, they ended up under Ryker's and begins their new journey with Max, a Custodian...whom you will know more if you read this.
OVERALL I still wasn't that happy about it all. The only good stuff from this are the cool powers and Max's Custodian status though still uncertain where she heralds from. The relationship between Darius and Diana BARELY had any interaction...i was a little put out and maybe felt cheated of a true romance.
July 3, 2016
In 'Paladin' you will get to know all the characters a bit better than in 'Warden'. Especially Darius and Diana will show up very often and the reader will learn heaps about their lives. But you will also meet all of the other characters again and you'll even come across some new people in 'Paladin'.
I love the story of the kind, honourable and very handsome knight Darius. And Diana is also a character with whom I fell in love from the first moment I read about her. She's hones, straight forward, very proud and extremely hot. I would describe her as a great friend, an absolutely lethal knight and a beautiful power woman.
I for sure love Max - who carries her heart on her tongue by the way -, Ryker, Darius, Axel, Larke, Cali, Diana and Beydon. They build a great Order but most important is that they make a crazy but absolutely perfect family. They fight for each other, are forgivable and even, if they wouldn't say it, they love each other just as much as every other family would love their family members.
Another positive point is that the author Montana Ash has a great writing style. It's perfectly detailed and I went through so many emotions while I read this book that I can't even describe all of them! There really was everything from love, over hatred and helplessness, over friendship to happiness and sadness.
The 'Elemental Paladins' series is absolutely addictive and definitely needs to be read by every fantasy lover, who also enjoys a nice amount of erotic scenes.
I would recommend this series over and over again and I hope that you all will enjoy it as much as I do. I can't wait for book #3 - 'Chade' - to be published as I already miss all of these great characters and their adventures!
I love the story of the kind, honourable and very handsome knight Darius. And Diana is also a character with whom I fell in love from the first moment I read about her. She's hones, straight forward, very proud and extremely hot. I would describe her as a great friend, an absolutely lethal knight and a beautiful power woman.
I for sure love Max - who carries her heart on her tongue by the way -, Ryker, Darius, Axel, Larke, Cali, Diana and Beydon. They build a great Order but most important is that they make a crazy but absolutely perfect family. They fight for each other, are forgivable and even, if they wouldn't say it, they love each other just as much as every other family would love their family members.
Another positive point is that the author Montana Ash has a great writing style. It's perfectly detailed and I went through so many emotions while I read this book that I can't even describe all of them! There really was everything from love, over hatred and helplessness, over friendship to happiness and sadness.
The 'Elemental Paladins' series is absolutely addictive and definitely needs to be read by every fantasy lover, who also enjoys a nice amount of erotic scenes.
I would recommend this series over and over again and I hope that you all will enjoy it as much as I do. I can't wait for book #3 - 'Chade' - to be published as I already miss all of these great characters and their adventures!
September 25, 2016
I have really enjoyed Montana Ash's 2 book in the Elemental Paladins Series. The righting is fluid and runs like a movie in your head. I loved getting to know more about the characters first introduced in the "Warden" (Book 1). The Rebel Goddess and her misfit band of Paladins that no one else wants.
The Blub
Honour. Duty. Loyalty. Control. These are the principles Darius lives by – almost to the point of obsession. They had forged him into a noble knight but had also cost him the woman of his dreams and wrought a non-relenting hatred for his personal nemeses; the shades.
When a tiny, redheaded, whirlwind of trouble descends upon him and his fellow knights in a flurry of questions and impossibilities, Darius finds himself struggling to reconcile his past values with his future desires.
For Diana, the arrival of Max brings with it a portent; revolution. As a paladin of death, acceptance is at her core. So embracing the sarcastic powerhouse as her sworn liege is easy. But embracing a certain air paladin who is a pathological rule-follower? Well, that isn’t so easy, despite the attraction they have shared for centuries.
With Darius confronted by his demons and a bitter Warden bent on exacting revenge, will the two knights ever reach their happily ever after?
The Blub
Honour. Duty. Loyalty. Control. These are the principles Darius lives by – almost to the point of obsession. They had forged him into a noble knight but had also cost him the woman of his dreams and wrought a non-relenting hatred for his personal nemeses; the shades.
When a tiny, redheaded, whirlwind of trouble descends upon him and his fellow knights in a flurry of questions and impossibilities, Darius finds himself struggling to reconcile his past values with his future desires.
For Diana, the arrival of Max brings with it a portent; revolution. As a paladin of death, acceptance is at her core. So embracing the sarcastic powerhouse as her sworn liege is easy. But embracing a certain air paladin who is a pathological rule-follower? Well, that isn’t so easy, despite the attraction they have shared for centuries.
With Darius confronted by his demons and a bitter Warden bent on exacting revenge, will the two knights ever reach their happily ever after?
November 29, 2018
ARC
Paladin begins not long after the first book ends. But this time the book is in Diana and Darius's point of view, along with Max and Ryker as well.
This one starts with Max's friends joining her and getting the cool "tattoo." Darius, however, isn't taking the bait yet. The know that Max is more than any of them could have imagined, but he doesn't know how she fits into their life and what the consequences will be when the Council finds out. Add into the fact that Diana is getting under his skin as well things are going to be explosive for poor, Sir Darius.
This book was really good. I loved how it gave us different characters point of views that really added to the story and made it much more interesting.
Paladin also brought us a lot of more information about the characters, and their world they live in.
I loved the progress of this book, the humor, characters, and the whole plot line. It kept me interested and hooked till the very end. Now, I'm super excited for the next book as well.
Paladin begins not long after the first book ends. But this time the book is in Diana and Darius's point of view, along with Max and Ryker as well.
This one starts with Max's friends joining her and getting the cool "tattoo." Darius, however, isn't taking the bait yet. The know that Max is more than any of them could have imagined, but he doesn't know how she fits into their life and what the consequences will be when the Council finds out. Add into the fact that Diana is getting under his skin as well things are going to be explosive for poor, Sir Darius.
This book was really good. I loved how it gave us different characters point of views that really added to the story and made it much more interesting.
Paladin also brought us a lot of more information about the characters, and their world they live in.
I loved the progress of this book, the humor, characters, and the whole plot line. It kept me interested and hooked till the very end. Now, I'm super excited for the next book as well.
May 4, 2016
This is Sir Darius and Lady Diana's book and while the series plot line is advanced the main objective is Dare and Diana's love story.
Darius met Diana 800 years ago during the Crusades; each one fighting with their liege to protect humans. Their sexual attraction was instantaneous, but Darius was a knight and a paladin first and would ever be or so he thought.
800 years later chaos rules Darius's methodical mind and lust and desire sways him to take Diana up against the wall. Diana loves it, but Darius apologizes and everything goes downhill from there. Darius can find any information on Max; where did she come from, how come a Custodian was so 'fleshy', and why did she let that chade go? All Diana knows is that someone needs to pull that tree out of Darius's rear orifice before it's too late.
Read how Max, the rest of the Paladins and a Ranger help Dare and Diana get together and how Max manages to save Dare's life.
Darius met Diana 800 years ago during the Crusades; each one fighting with their liege to protect humans. Their sexual attraction was instantaneous, but Darius was a knight and a paladin first and would ever be or so he thought.
800 years later chaos rules Darius's methodical mind and lust and desire sways him to take Diana up against the wall. Diana loves it, but Darius apologizes and everything goes downhill from there. Darius can find any information on Max; where did she come from, how come a Custodian was so 'fleshy', and why did she let that chade go? All Diana knows is that someone needs to pull that tree out of Darius's rear orifice before it's too late.
Read how Max, the rest of the Paladins and a Ranger help Dare and Diana get together and how Max manages to save Dare's life.
May 2, 2016
There is something so captivating in the character of Max that holds us to this series. Although this novel does focus on Darius and Diana we don't lose sight of the enigma that is our Custodian. A child one moment and a mature, sexy and feisty warrior the next Max is the one to show what should be to preserve humanity rather than what has been. Her soldiers love her because of what she is in her heart. In turn this opens all of them to doing what they were born to do without the sacrifice of their humanity. Darius finally learns this through allowing his feeling for the Death paladin to thrive and we know each of the paladins will in turn find their happiness.
I love that the book is about living to the fullest in order to salvage the world they live in. I love that it is shown to us with humour often bordering on the ridiculous, love in all forms and honour in following beliefs and duty. Great reading, fun, sexy and just plain enjoyable.
I love that the book is about living to the fullest in order to salvage the world they live in. I love that it is shown to us with humour often bordering on the ridiculous, love in all forms and honour in following beliefs and duty. Great reading, fun, sexy and just plain enjoyable.
December 6, 2023
Take an uptight, rule loving warrior and throw a rule breaking minx in his midst? You get chaos. Darius is having a hard time adjusting to having Max in their lives. Especially with the revelations at the end of Warden. Add in Diana, the woman he’s been lusting after for eight centuries? The poor man is a big ole bundle of repressed mess. Diana's been stubbornly resisting him since he rejected her so long ago and has no plans to stop. As Darius make sense of Max and where she came from, Diana tries to make him see sense. This leads to some spectacular fireworks. Throw in a great deal of banter and some humor with a bit of booty shaking to Kelis’ Milkshake and I was grinning like a fool most of the time. If you loved Max in Warden, don’t worry, even though Paladin focuses on Darius and Diana’s story there’s plenty of Max’s feisty self to go around. I can’t wait to see what havoc she wrecks in the next book. This series just keeps me entertained beginning to end.
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