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The Scarred Mage of Roseward #2
Prisoner
Don't miss book II of this romantic "Beauty and the Beast" retelling.
A new light shines into the darkness of his heart . . .
After fifteen years of imprisonment and solitude, Soran Silveri's life is rudely interrupted by the arrival of one brash, headstrong, flame-haired girl. He cannot refuse her appeals for sanctuary—but he can resist her pleas for him to teach her magic. If the suspicions he harbors about her prove true, tapping into her magic potential could spell disaster.
Nelle has survived the first hurdle of her mission on Roseward Isle: She convinced the disgraced mage to let her stay. Now, if she can only find his hidden spellbook, she could return home in time to save Papa. It should be simple enough.
But as the danger stalking Roseward Isle closes in, a situation that once seemed simple grows more complex by the day. Can Soran bear to send away the woman who has instilled his life with new meaning and purpose? Can Nelle betray the man who has opened her eyes to possibilities she never knew existed?
Rediscover the tale as old as time in this romantic trilogy, perfect for fans of Miranda Honfleur, Audrey Gray, and Emma Hamm.
A new light shines into the darkness of his heart . . .
After fifteen years of imprisonment and solitude, Soran Silveri's life is rudely interrupted by the arrival of one brash, headstrong, flame-haired girl. He cannot refuse her appeals for sanctuary—but he can resist her pleas for him to teach her magic. If the suspicions he harbors about her prove true, tapping into her magic potential could spell disaster.
Nelle has survived the first hurdle of her mission on Roseward Isle: She convinced the disgraced mage to let her stay. Now, if she can only find his hidden spellbook, she could return home in time to save Papa. It should be simple enough.
But as the danger stalking Roseward Isle closes in, a situation that once seemed simple grows more complex by the day. Can Soran bear to send away the woman who has instilled his life with new meaning and purpose? Can Nelle betray the man who has opened her eyes to possibilities she never knew existed?
Rediscover the tale as old as time in this romantic trilogy, perfect for fans of Miranda Honfleur, Audrey Gray, and Emma Hamm.
438 pages, Paperback
First published December 6, 2020
356 people are currently reading
795 people want to read
About the author
Sylvia Mercedes
37 books2,258 followersHi, there. I'm Sylvia: cat-lover, tea-drinker, book-addict, and avid fan of the Kickbutt Heroine Fantasy Genre! If you like reading about tough heroines with extraordinary powers facing their demons and saving their loved ones . . . then we ought to be friends!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 97 reviews
December 1, 2020
Spoilers! It was so nice to be back in Rosewood! In this book, Nelle's magic abilities get expanded and we meet new characters and get a revisit from old ones. There is action, creatures you don't want to meet in real life and a dash of romance. Just a dash, though. I really wanted to like this more than I did. I was super excited when the call went out to get an advanced copy to review. But the way the magic in this world is explained left me confused and I ended up skimming a lot of the scenes where they tap into the quinsatra.
But I think my biggest issue was with Nelle. She is supposed to be so street smart and has all this untapped potential and blah blah blah. But she is an idiot. It is extremely obvious that she can't steal the Rose Book. If Soran doesn't perform the spell, the Thorn Maiden will be released into this realm. It is all but shouted to her that Gaspard asked her to steal a very special, possibly evil, quill. She sees for herself what happens when the Thorn Maiden is released, which any idiot can tell Gaspard wants to do. Oh, and the Thorn Maiden got released because she was told not to use magic until they had passed an evil Fae realm, but she knows better and has to help her friend, who is there for a convoluted reason and actually betrayed her in the first book. But the man who has helped her and is trying to teach her magic and who she, according to her, is developing feelings for and who released it to rescue her asks her to not use magic because the evil Fae can sense it and will kidnap her. Well that's obvious if you're Nelle; you help the person who betrayed you and helped stick you in this situation.
There were just too many times where she is just too annoying. She does a lot of smart things, but they get overshadowed for me. Soran was so swoon worthy and is really the reason I didn't walk away from this. The world building is great, the variety of characters which we are given more of a glimpse of, is fantastic. But I think this is the last one for me.
But I think my biggest issue was with Nelle. She is supposed to be so street smart and has all this untapped potential and blah blah blah. But she is an idiot. It is extremely obvious that she can't steal the Rose Book. If Soran doesn't perform the spell, the Thorn Maiden will be released into this realm. It is all but shouted to her that Gaspard asked her to steal a very special, possibly evil, quill. She sees for herself what happens when the Thorn Maiden is released, which any idiot can tell Gaspard wants to do. Oh, and the Thorn Maiden got released because she was told not to use magic until they had passed an evil Fae realm, but she knows better and has to help her friend, who is there for a convoluted reason and actually betrayed her in the first book. But the man who has helped her and is trying to teach her magic and who she, according to her, is developing feelings for and who released it to rescue her asks her to not use magic because the evil Fae can sense it and will kidnap her. Well that's obvious if you're Nelle; you help the person who betrayed you and helped stick you in this situation.
There were just too many times where she is just too annoying. She does a lot of smart things, but they get overshadowed for me. Soran was so swoon worthy and is really the reason I didn't walk away from this. The world building is great, the variety of characters which we are given more of a glimpse of, is fantastic. But I think this is the last one for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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November 19, 2020release date: December 10, 2020.
August 16, 2022
Who doesn't love a good Beauty and the Beast retelling? Especially one with covers like these. Especially ones written by Sylvia Mercedes!
First of all, this series is strangely a comfort read (or was until I read another series by the same author, but as I read it after reading this, that is all I will say on the matter). And this book is my favorite of the trilogy. Here is why.
-We still have the strange dynamic between Nelle and Soran keeping house while not trusting each other.
-There is a visitor on this island that threatens to change that whole dynamic in the most interesting way possible.
-There is a threat that might just invade the island if it had any idea Nelle was on it.
-And that's on top of the Rose Maiden threat.
The romance in this book centered on the whole concept of "Touch her and you die." Which Soran took the nth degree. I have never seen a more epic "Touch her and you die." Bad Guy over here is like, ooh, I got your girl. And Soran be like, ooh, I got this world's version of a HYDROGEN BOMB.
So anyway, I think about that a lot at random moments. And you should, too: read this book.
Note to more sensitive readers: This book has some language (mostly fantasy terms, but I think there were a couple real ones mixed in), strong (but still slow burn) romance, and some adult themes (let's just say, Soran had good reason to release the BOMB).
Originally reviewed on my blog: https://agencyofbooksandspies.blogspo...
First of all, this series is strangely a comfort read (or was until I read another series by the same author, but as I read it after reading this, that is all I will say on the matter). And this book is my favorite of the trilogy. Here is why.
-We still have the strange dynamic between Nelle and Soran keeping house while not trusting each other.
-There is a visitor on this island that threatens to change that whole dynamic in the most interesting way possible.
-There is a threat that might just invade the island if it had any idea Nelle was on it.
-And that's on top of the Rose Maiden threat.
The romance in this book centered on the whole concept of "Touch her and you die." Which Soran took the nth degree. I have never seen a more epic "Touch her and you die." Bad Guy over here is like, ooh, I got your girl. And Soran be like, ooh, I got this world's version of a HYDROGEN BOMB.
So anyway, I think about that a lot at random moments. And you should, too: read this book.
Note to more sensitive readers: This book has some language (mostly fantasy terms, but I think there were a couple real ones mixed in), strong (but still slow burn) romance, and some adult themes (let's just say, Soran had good reason to release the BOMB).
Originally reviewed on my blog: https://agencyofbooksandspies.blogspo...
November 8, 2020
What fun it was to be back in the world of Soran and Nelle! I said in my review of the first book that there were more things to discover about the world of the story, and I was right! In Prisoner the reader gets to travel beyond the shores of Roseward Isle to a dangerous place that requires a daring and perilous rescue. Nelle’s world also invades the solitude of the isle, and we learn how the magic and mayhem impact the passage of time in Nelle’s world.
Again we’re left with some unanswered questions, and let me just say, even as someone who loves a slow-burning romance, I wanted to grab them by the shoulders and shake them. But I also appreciate an author that makes a story dramatic and romantic, without being angsty or falling back onto the physical to carry the story. I really want Nelle to open up more to Soran, and I just know this has to happen in book three. While I wouldn’t call this a sweet fantasy, I do appreciate a clean romance – it’s tension filled and passionate for sure, but never steps over the line. In terms of other content, the Thorn Maiden is still pretty terrifying, but the way she is incorporated into this story is a bit different than the first book. I thought it was a unique twist.
Mercedes has several questions that I beg to be addressed in book three, but I have full confidence in her. This has been a fun trilogy so far, and I’m eager for book three!
I received a complimentary advanced copy of this novel. A positive review was not required, and these are my honest thoughts and opinions.
Again we’re left with some unanswered questions, and let me just say, even as someone who loves a slow-burning romance, I wanted to grab them by the shoulders and shake them. But I also appreciate an author that makes a story dramatic and romantic, without being angsty or falling back onto the physical to carry the story. I really want Nelle to open up more to Soran, and I just know this has to happen in book three. While I wouldn’t call this a sweet fantasy, I do appreciate a clean romance – it’s tension filled and passionate for sure, but never steps over the line. In terms of other content, the Thorn Maiden is still pretty terrifying, but the way she is incorporated into this story is a bit different than the first book. I thought it was a unique twist.
Mercedes has several questions that I beg to be addressed in book three, but I have full confidence in her. This has been a fun trilogy so far, and I’m eager for book three!
I received a complimentary advanced copy of this novel. A positive review was not required, and these are my honest thoughts and opinions.
November 2, 2020
Book two in Sylvia Mercedes' wonderfully unique interpretation of 'Beauty and the Beast', and the author hasn't lessened any of the torment and tension that we - and the characters - felt in the first book.
I do so love the anguish of the 'will I, won't I' scenarios between Nelle and Soran. The dilemmas they face are true and life-changing. Not only about their growing attraction to each other, but also should Soran finally teach Nelle some magic and will she succeed, and should Nelle steal the Rose Spell Book in order to get her papa back to safety, or will she choose to stay on the island? These are questions that we need to be answered. (Write more quickly, please.)
In this book, they are not on their own on the Roseward Isle. Danger arrives in some style, and it's very hard to imagine how they are going to come out of this unscathed, or even alive. We see more of The Thorn Maiden. I can't tell you how or why, but it's very clever.
The author continues to press all my buttons. My emotions were all over the place. I was completely lost in the book from the first paragraph. I love that this is a character-based tale, as the author is very talented and can weave a cracking yarn. Soran's prison - the island, its buildings, and landscape are real, and the wee wyvern brings out the mother in me. I was in tears AND giggling at the climax! You are a stone if you don't feel something.
I do have a soft spot for Nelle as she's gallus and bullspittingly confident in most scenarios on the outside, but insecure and unaware of her own knowledge and worth on the inside. Soran has more faith in Nelle than she does in herself, and vice versa. I also feel a bit for the scarred mage, as he continues to suffer because of his relationship with The Thorn Maiden. He's trying to save the world and its lives, and feels the weight on his shoulders. But he's never met anyone like Miss Peronelle Beck.
Did I mention that I really don't like books about fairytales...?
I chose an early copy which I voluntarily read and honestly reviewed. All opinions are my own.
I do so love the anguish of the 'will I, won't I' scenarios between Nelle and Soran. The dilemmas they face are true and life-changing. Not only about their growing attraction to each other, but also should Soran finally teach Nelle some magic and will she succeed, and should Nelle steal the Rose Spell Book in order to get her papa back to safety, or will she choose to stay on the island? These are questions that we need to be answered. (Write more quickly, please.)
In this book, they are not on their own on the Roseward Isle. Danger arrives in some style, and it's very hard to imagine how they are going to come out of this unscathed, or even alive. We see more of The Thorn Maiden. I can't tell you how or why, but it's very clever.
The author continues to press all my buttons. My emotions were all over the place. I was completely lost in the book from the first paragraph. I love that this is a character-based tale, as the author is very talented and can weave a cracking yarn. Soran's prison - the island, its buildings, and landscape are real, and the wee wyvern brings out the mother in me. I was in tears AND giggling at the climax! You are a stone if you don't feel something.
I do have a soft spot for Nelle as she's gallus and bullspittingly confident in most scenarios on the outside, but insecure and unaware of her own knowledge and worth on the inside. Soran has more faith in Nelle than she does in herself, and vice versa. I also feel a bit for the scarred mage, as he continues to suffer because of his relationship with The Thorn Maiden. He's trying to save the world and its lives, and feels the weight on his shoulders. But he's never met anyone like Miss Peronelle Beck.
Did I mention that I really don't like books about fairytales...?
I chose an early copy which I voluntarily read and honestly reviewed. All opinions are my own.
November 30, 2020
I was enthralled by the first book in this trilogy but I do believe that Sylvia Mercedes has surpassed herself in this, her second book which kept me awake all night reading as I could not put the book down once I started it. Nelle is a strong willed character, who is not afraid to fight, she just does not know when to back down and thus gets herself and Soran Silveri, the mage who has been cursed to live out his life on his floating island into so much trouble. This book is fraught with danger as they face a massacre of Harpen's, the Noswaith as per usual, and the dogs who came on the ships of Lord Kyriakos from the Kingdom of Night. This fae Lord was attracted to Roseward because Nelle insisted she be taught magic by Soran, who though realising what she was right from the start of his teaching could not refuse her demands. Turns out that Peronelle Beck is more than either of them could have imagined and now both their lives are endangered. The world building of Nexaur, the Kingdom of night is awesome, as are the fae creatures dwelling there. I love the romance budding between Nelle and Soran but wish they would just come out and accept the fact. I love the wyverns and their loyalty to Soran and I love the writing style of Ms. Mercedes and look forward to book 3 and the finale to this amazing and enthralling tale of romance and dark adventure!
January 22, 2021
Again, it's a little slow-moving but there is certainly a lot more danger and risk in this second installment. The "budding" romance is absolutely baffling, but then so is the claim that our male protagonist acts like a "beast" when he's unfailingly polite and generally self-sacrificing. But the foil of having Keriakos appear and take Nelle away was very exciting and I need to know how things pan out. On to the final book!
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October 31, 2021Middle instalment of this dark and spiky (literally) romantic fairytale retelling of BEAUTY AND THE BEAST in a unique and vividly-depicted world.
May 16, 2021
This second installment in the Mage of Roseward series gave the reader a deeper look into Soren’s sordid past. He must pay for the sins of his youth with the rest of his life. His characterization in this novel is simply lovely. I highlighted so much in this book, it’s ridiculous! One of my favorite passages:
How could a mere eleven days have changed her entire perspective on this man? This scarred, broken, murderous, arrogant, condescending, fascinating man. –Page 135
Soren has been alone for so many years he hardly knows how to interact with Nelle at times. He clams up when he gets angry or annoyed with her, and goes and broods in his tower. I particularly enjoyed this book because it shows just how much Nelle comes to mean to Soren when she is kidnapped and taken from his island. He immediately sets off after her—not even a thought for the repercussions of this action. His selfless action on her behalf endears him to the reader. He rescues her from a horrid fate and whisks her back to his island.
Also—SO MUCH ACTION in this book! Poor Soren has to keep going and going and going—he gets no breaks whatsoever. I enjoyed this book even more than the first.
My only complaint is that I wish there had been a touch more romance between the two. The first book had that dream-kissing scene, but beyond that there has not been much romance between them. I felt as though the author concentrated on the action-packed scenes so much that some of that smolder between the two main characters was lost.
In the end, I did like this second book even better than the first and cannot wait to read the third.
How could a mere eleven days have changed her entire perspective on this man? This scarred, broken, murderous, arrogant, condescending, fascinating man. –Page 135
Soren has been alone for so many years he hardly knows how to interact with Nelle at times. He clams up when he gets angry or annoyed with her, and goes and broods in his tower. I particularly enjoyed this book because it shows just how much Nelle comes to mean to Soren when she is kidnapped and taken from his island. He immediately sets off after her—not even a thought for the repercussions of this action. His selfless action on her behalf endears him to the reader. He rescues her from a horrid fate and whisks her back to his island.
Also—SO MUCH ACTION in this book! Poor Soren has to keep going and going and going—he gets no breaks whatsoever. I enjoyed this book even more than the first.
My only complaint is that I wish there had been a touch more romance between the two. The first book had that dream-kissing scene, but beyond that there has not been much romance between them. I felt as though the author concentrated on the action-packed scenes so much that some of that smolder between the two main characters was lost.
In the end, I did like this second book even better than the first and cannot wait to read the third.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 3, 2022
The world building expanded even more! And the relationship between Soran and Nelle becomes even more deep while he starts to teach her magic and starts to open up a little more, but it's a ony way road seeing that Nelle still hides everything from him. When fae princes and people from her normal life appear in the island things starts to get very dangerous once again...and the Thorn Maiden might get herself free and destroy them all.
April 28, 2021
A great continuation of a series! Enjoyed every minute of it!
July 10, 2021
So many fantasy-romance trilogies suffer from the book 2 slump--you end up just the tiniest bit bored, slogging through so you can get to the thrilling climax (I think this happens a lot because the trilogy probably worked better as a single standalone, but there seems to be a trend toward shorter novels in this genre, so the authors split them up?) But that is happily NOT the case with the Scarred Mage trilogy. In fact, the story just flies by; I got to the end of this one at about 2 am and had to race right back to Amazon to pick up part 3 before I died from anticipation. XD
The tension in this book is so stressful, and I LOVE it, particularly Nelle's war of conscience over whether or not she should go through with her original plan. It's been done already, I know, I know, and usually it's done SO badly--the heroine ends up coming across as TSTL and you just want to reach into the pages to smack some sense into her, but Sylvia Mercedes just keeps taking those tropes and dumping them on their heads. Nelle's dilemma is so believable, so plausible, and her angst over the right path to take is so well-done, never once did I get frustrated or want to shake her. This is the kind of writing I love: character motivations that make total sense!
Lots of danger and adventure in this one, and the eerie atmosphere of the island only increases.
Go. Read it. WHY ARE YOU STILL HERE? :D
The tension in this book is so stressful, and I LOVE it, particularly Nelle's war of conscience over whether or not she should go through with her original plan. It's been done already, I know, I know, and usually it's done SO badly--the heroine ends up coming across as TSTL and you just want to reach into the pages to smack some sense into her, but Sylvia Mercedes just keeps taking those tropes and dumping them on their heads. Nelle's dilemma is so believable, so plausible, and her angst over the right path to take is so well-done, never once did I get frustrated or want to shake her. This is the kind of writing I love: character motivations that make total sense!
Lots of danger and adventure in this one, and the eerie atmosphere of the island only increases.
Go. Read it. WHY ARE YOU STILL HERE? :D
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December 8, 2020 I was quite surprised by how different the atmosphere of this book felt compared to the first installment. Realistically, it was no less grim and hardly happier than the air in Thief, yet it felt more hopeful, although the situation only grew darker! Perhaps this was because of the interactions between Nelle and Soran that were imbued with increasing intimacy, although not quite THAT intimacy typical of romantic plots yet! Nelle slowly making her way into Soran's life was fascinating to watch and the increased level of worldbuilding, the new species, the old friends and the new enemies kept me captivated - and through all of this, the Thorn Maiden still looms large. In fact, I see her as looming larger and more sinister than the powerful new enemy - Kyriakos.
Nelle being more than either of them knew was a surprise, and a fascinating one! Still, what drew me most about this novel was the dilemma or rather, dilemmas that the characters are facing. Will Soran fully let her into his life and craft or not? Will Nelle steal the book and save her father or not? It remains to be seen! And seeing the Beast reluctantly don the mantle of the knight in shining armour for the sake of the woman he refuses to recognize as his damsel in distress was surprisingly amusing.
I'll be waiting for the third book for sure!
Nelle being more than either of them knew was a surprise, and a fascinating one! Still, what drew me most about this novel was the dilemma or rather, dilemmas that the characters are facing. Will Soran fully let her into his life and craft or not? Will Nelle steal the book and save her father or not? It remains to be seen! And seeing the Beast reluctantly don the mantle of the knight in shining armour for the sake of the woman he refuses to recognize as his damsel in distress was surprisingly amusing.
I'll be waiting for the third book for sure!
July 4, 2022
A very enjoyable second outing for this riff on Beauty and the Beast - just don't expect a straight-out fairy tale retelling. We've got dark fae and magical secrets to add to the slowly simmering romantic attraction that's made this comfort read of a series so nice to snuggle on down into. There are twists and turns, but nothing to make you spit your tea, nor steam to fog up your reading glasses. All in all, it's what a slow-burn second in trilogy should be.
We pick up shortly after the events of book one: Nelle impetuously demanding to learn magic, Soren long-sufferingly agreeing to do so despite his misgivings. Yet there are other things being set in motion as Roseward continues to drift between the plains of existence and ends up rather too close for comfort to a very dark shoreline indeed. With dangers she couldn't have imagined and knowing what she knows, how can Nelle steal Soren's Rose Book and keep her Papa - and her heart - safe?
While not a lot happens on the main "steal the spell book - save the parent" plot line, I found I really didn't mind, as the time was used to introduce us to more of the strange magic of the Hinter and the evil that lurks beyond it in the lands of the Fae. More lore coupled with a deliciously slow-&-steady romance (yes, it's tropey, and yes, I rolled my eyes a few times - with a knowing smile) made for an enthralling read. We also got two side characters to add a little tension: one we know and one we wish we didn't (hello evil sexy Fae Lord of Darkness). While neither get a load of airtime they work well to add to the insular world created on Roseward Isle
Plus there's more Thorn Maiden. Don't we all need some decent amoral villains in our fictional lives?
My gripes are the same as the first book (too many fragmented sentences tripping up the reading flow - all these unnecessary But or And beginning sentences drove me to distraction!), plus a few cases where continuity of facts seemed a little iffy (). Nothing a little editorial polish couldn't fix, as I was pretty much enraptured by the easy to read style and the imaginative but not too unfamiliar story.
It might not be a tale as old as time, but it's proving to be a fun, lite romance-leaning fantasy read that combines dark themes with a light-heartedness that makes it so compelling. I'm really looking forward to diving into book three given how events set in motion here will almost certainly have dangerous, maybe even fa(e)tal repercussions...
We pick up shortly after the events of book one: Nelle impetuously demanding to learn magic, Soren long-sufferingly agreeing to do so despite his misgivings. Yet there are other things being set in motion as Roseward continues to drift between the plains of existence and ends up rather too close for comfort to a very dark shoreline indeed. With dangers she couldn't have imagined and knowing what she knows, how can Nelle steal Soren's Rose Book and keep her Papa - and her heart - safe?
While not a lot happens on the main "steal the spell book - save the parent" plot line, I found I really didn't mind, as the time was used to introduce us to more of the strange magic of the Hinter and the evil that lurks beyond it in the lands of the Fae. More lore coupled with a deliciously slow-&-steady romance (yes, it's tropey, and yes, I rolled my eyes a few times - with a knowing smile) made for an enthralling read. We also got two side characters to add a little tension: one we know and one we wish we didn't (hello evil sexy Fae Lord of Darkness). While neither get a load of airtime they work well to add to the insular world created on Roseward Isle
Plus there's more Thorn Maiden. Don't we all need some decent amoral villains in our fictional lives?
My gripes are the same as the first book (too many fragmented sentences tripping up the reading flow - all these unnecessary But or And beginning sentences drove me to distraction!), plus a few cases where continuity of facts seemed a little iffy (). Nothing a little editorial polish couldn't fix, as I was pretty much enraptured by the easy to read style and the imaginative but not too unfamiliar story.
It might not be a tale as old as time, but it's proving to be a fun, lite romance-leaning fantasy read that combines dark themes with a light-heartedness that makes it so compelling. I'm really looking forward to diving into book three given how events set in motion here will almost certainly have dangerous, maybe even fa(e)tal repercussions...
July 26, 2022
So I finished the book yesterday and sorted my thoughts for a review. Be warned, Spoilers below
I definitely like book 2 better than book 1. I felt that Nelle's chapters were ok, she's learning magic and sorting out her feelings for Soran but I didn't feel like she made any noticeable differences from book 1. We haven't even gotten to the part where her real reason for coming to Roseward comes to light, instead we get conflict from Sam, her old buddy, who came looking for her and revealed that it's been 2 years since she left for Roseward.
I enjoyed Soran's chapters more compared to Nelle's. I love learning more about him and other lands through his knowledge. I loved that his backstory was in bits in pieces so it made me want more of that. I also loved the information we get about the Thorn Maiden, even if there are still more puzzle pieces that need to be put together.
The last thing to be discussed is the romance. Nelle and Soran are still figuring out their feelings for each other and there is a kiss or two if I'm remembering right but nothing wholly satisfying. What is satisfying is Soran's protectiveness over Nelle, who gets kidnapped near the end of the book. He unleashes the Thorn Maiden while he looks for Nelle and after reuniting he assumes she'd been violated given her state of dress and he goes "Nope, the Thorn Maiden can continue murdering these people regardless if they're innocent or not". My feelings were complicated once it sank in what he would have allowed to happen if Nelle hadn't stopped him.
As I said earlier, I enjoyed this book and am already starting on book 3 so hopefully any and all questions I've been asking since book 1 gets answered.
I definitely like book 2 better than book 1. I felt that Nelle's chapters were ok, she's learning magic and sorting out her feelings for Soran but I didn't feel like she made any noticeable differences from book 1. We haven't even gotten to the part where her real reason for coming to Roseward comes to light, instead we get conflict from Sam, her old buddy, who came looking for her and revealed that it's been 2 years since she left for Roseward.
I enjoyed Soran's chapters more compared to Nelle's. I love learning more about him and other lands through his knowledge. I loved that his backstory was in bits in pieces so it made me want more of that. I also loved the information we get about the Thorn Maiden, even if there are still more puzzle pieces that need to be put together.
The last thing to be discussed is the romance. Nelle and Soran are still figuring out their feelings for each other and there is a kiss or two if I'm remembering right but nothing wholly satisfying. What is satisfying is Soran's protectiveness over Nelle, who gets kidnapped near the end of the book. He unleashes the Thorn Maiden while he looks for Nelle and after reuniting he assumes she'd been violated given her state of dress and he goes "Nope, the Thorn Maiden can continue murdering these people regardless if they're innocent or not". My feelings were complicated once it sank in what he would have allowed to happen if Nelle hadn't stopped him.
As I said earlier, I enjoyed this book and am already starting on book 3 so hopefully any and all questions I've been asking since book 1 gets answered.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 10, 2020
I was enthralled by the first book in this trilogy but I do believe that Sylvia Mercedes has surpassed herself in this, her second book which kept me awake all night reading as I could not put the book down once I started it. Nelle is a strong willed character, who is not afraid to fight, she just does not know when to back down and thus gets herself and Soran Silveri, the mage who has been cursed to live out his life on his floating island into so much trouble. This book is fraught with danger as they face a massacre of Harpen's, the Noswaith as per usual, and the dogs who came on the ships of Lord Kyriakos from the Kingdom of Night. This fae Lord was attracted to Roseward because Nelle insisted she be taught magic by Soran, who though realising what she was right from the start of his teaching could not refuse her demands. Turns out that Peronelle Beck is more than either of them could have imagined and now both their lives are endangered. The world building of Nexaur, the Kingdom of night is awesome, as are the fae creatures dwelling there. I love the romance budding between Nelle and Soran but wish they would just come out and accept the fact. I love the wyverns and their loyalty to Soran and I love the writing style of Ms. Mercedes and look forward to book 3 and the finale to this amazing and enthralling tale of romance and dark adventure!
April 1, 2025
And things are getting complicated between Soran and Nelle out on the island.
Nelle, having shown a potential to wielding human magic has finally talked Soran into showing her how some basic magic is done. Unfortunately, the untethered island has drifted uncomfortably close to the far isle of darkness and it’s lord has sensed Nelle’s use of magic. Now he wants her as part of his harem of wives as a brood mare to produce magically powerful offspring.
Nelle’s former friend, Sam, has managed to reach the island with shocking news- Nelle has been gone for longer than she has realized due to the differences in time. It’s more important now than ever that she get her hands on Soran’s red rose book if she wants to save her papa from the loss of both his hands.
Hiding Sam on the island was never going to be for more than a night, but Nelle’s secrets were never going to remains her and the lies have now threaten to leave Soran removing her from the island altogether, unless the fae lord manages to get his hands on her first.
I am now off and running for book 3 because I have GOT to find out where it all goes from here!
Nelle, having shown a potential to wielding human magic has finally talked Soran into showing her how some basic magic is done. Unfortunately, the untethered island has drifted uncomfortably close to the far isle of darkness and it’s lord has sensed Nelle’s use of magic. Now he wants her as part of his harem of wives as a brood mare to produce magically powerful offspring.
Nelle’s former friend, Sam, has managed to reach the island with shocking news- Nelle has been gone for longer than she has realized due to the differences in time. It’s more important now than ever that she get her hands on Soran’s red rose book if she wants to save her papa from the loss of both his hands.
Hiding Sam on the island was never going to be for more than a night, but Nelle’s secrets were never going to remains her and the lies have now threaten to leave Soran removing her from the island altogether, unless the fae lord manages to get his hands on her first.
I am now off and running for book 3 because I have GOT to find out where it all goes from here!
October 9, 2023
ugh
If I didn’t want to know what happens in the end. I would stop reading. She’s trying so hard to make Nelle appear rugged and rough around the edges that it just feels fake. I almost stopped reading when I got tired of seeing “bullspit” over and over. Thus the ugh.
Also really struggling with the flow. It’s good for a little bit, then gets all jagged and I find myself skipping multiple paragraphs just so I can get on with what happens next.
I am intrigued by the story line, but just not loving the presentation. It’s kind of like a teenager trying to behave like an adult when they don’t have the life-experience to pull it off.
I feel bad saying all this, as generally, I only write positive reviews…but after the number of times that I had to read the word Bullspit and know that I’ll have to suffer through it many times more to get to the end of the story, I just couldn’t help but say something. Thank goodness the real world isn’t full of dumb 18 year-old girls with world-crippling magical powers :-D
If I didn’t want to know what happens in the end. I would stop reading. She’s trying so hard to make Nelle appear rugged and rough around the edges that it just feels fake. I almost stopped reading when I got tired of seeing “bullspit” over and over. Thus the ugh.
Also really struggling with the flow. It’s good for a little bit, then gets all jagged and I find myself skipping multiple paragraphs just so I can get on with what happens next.
I am intrigued by the story line, but just not loving the presentation. It’s kind of like a teenager trying to behave like an adult when they don’t have the life-experience to pull it off.
I feel bad saying all this, as generally, I only write positive reviews…but after the number of times that I had to read the word Bullspit and know that I’ll have to suffer through it many times more to get to the end of the story, I just couldn’t help but say something. Thank goodness the real world isn’t full of dumb 18 year-old girls with world-crippling magical powers :-D
December 10, 2020
With the Venatrix Chronicles, Sylvia Mercedes created a unique world and story that enthralled me. I didn’t know how she’d be able to do that again with a new series...but she did!! This second installment of the Scarred Mage series is even better than the first book. We really see the development of Nelle and Soran’s relationship (a faster paced romance than in the Venetrix books but still not too fast). Nelle grows more conflicted by her mission to save her father and her growing compassion and love for Soran. We get more backstory with the Thorn Maiden (a deliciously evil and obsessive character unlike any I can remember) , find out more about Nelle’s intriguing powers, and get more of this fascinating world (including time with the darling blue Wyvern).
I truly can’t recommend this author enough. Mercedes is phenomenal. I have no idea what’s next for Nelle and Soran, but I am eager to find out.
I truly can’t recommend this author enough. Mercedes is phenomenal. I have no idea what’s next for Nelle and Soran, but I am eager to find out.
October 29, 2020
Continuing where the first novel let off, Nelle and Soran have gotten to know one another and have helped each other. The Thorn Maiden is still causing trouble and Soran has had to use much magic and energy to keep her contained. Nelle is still plotting but wants Soran to teach her magic. Soran recognizes what Nelle is and reluctantly begins to teach her magic. But with a magic like Nelle's, is draws unwanted attentions and Soran cannot tell her the truth. Nelle is keeping her own secrets, but needs to get Soran to trust her so she can complete her mission. Nelle and Soran are growing closer and feelings begin to form, not matter how deep they try to bury them. Both have affected the other, and when the time comes, can each push the other away to succeed in their missions?
I received this novel as an ARC from Ms. Mercedes. Thank you! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I received this novel as an ARC from Ms. Mercedes. Thank you! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 6, 2020
I can't get enough of these characters. Soran is so secretive, yet fiercely protective of Nelle. I loved that we got to see a bit of the "beast" side of him in this book instead of the gentleman. Nelle, is one of my all time favorite characters. She is so genuine and has such depth. I wish she would come completely clean to Soran. I want them to have a happy ending so badly.
The action in this book is crazy intense. We are introduced to another terrifying creature, the harpen. The island of Roseward drifts into their nesting grounds, which just so happen to belong to a Fae lord. I loved how Nelle discovered her heritage, even if I wanted another certain person to tell her. (Looking at you Soran)
All in all, I can not wait for the final book. I hope they get their HEA and find a way to end the curse.
The action in this book is crazy intense. We are introduced to another terrifying creature, the harpen. The island of Roseward drifts into their nesting grounds, which just so happen to belong to a Fae lord. I loved how Nelle discovered her heritage, even if I wanted another certain person to tell her. (Looking at you Soran)
All in all, I can not wait for the final book. I hope they get their HEA and find a way to end the curse.
Want to read
December 10, 2020I can't get enough of these characters. Soran is so secretive, yet fiercely protective of Nelle. I loved that we got to see a bit of the "beast" side of him in this book instead of the gentleman. Nelle, is one of my all time favorite characters. She is so genuine and has such depth. I wish she would come completely clean to Soran. I want them to have a happy ending so badly.
The action in this book is crazy intense. We are introduced to another terrifying creature, the harpen. The island of Roseward drifts into their nesting grounds, which just so happen to belong to a Fae lord. I loved how Nelle discovered her heritage, even if I wanted another certain person to tell her. (Looking at you Soran)
All in all, I can not wait for the final book. I hope they get their HEA and find a way to end the curse.
The action in this book is crazy intense. We are introduced to another terrifying creature, the harpen. The island of Roseward drifts into their nesting grounds, which just so happen to belong to a Fae lord. I loved how Nelle discovered her heritage, even if I wanted another certain person to tell her. (Looking at you Soran)
All in all, I can not wait for the final book. I hope they get their HEA and find a way to end the curse.
December 25, 2020
Looking forward to the final book!
This was a well-done second book of a writer’s second series. There’s a scene where one of the characters is pulling magical threads together to repair a broken spell that seemed similar to how the writer was pulling together the different plot strands for this series. The first might have years of pent up ideas behind it, but then for others you have to build up tolerance and pull the disparate threads together.
I suspect the series does what the writer wanted it to to. It successfully creates an intriguing world and magic system that one could envision returning to. It is great to be able to read another series so soon after The Venatrix Chronicles (which is now my all time favorite series).
I’m looking forward to reading the final book in the trilogy.
This was a well-done second book of a writer’s second series. There’s a scene where one of the characters is pulling magical threads together to repair a broken spell that seemed similar to how the writer was pulling together the different plot strands for this series. The first might have years of pent up ideas behind it, but then for others you have to build up tolerance and pull the disparate threads together.
I suspect the series does what the writer wanted it to to. It successfully creates an intriguing world and magic system that one could envision returning to. It is great to be able to read another series so soon after The Venatrix Chronicles (which is now my all time favorite series).
I’m looking forward to reading the final book in the trilogy.
October 6, 2021
I have found that I really love this author , so I’m currently reading her back catalogue of books .
This is the second book of Soran and Nelle. Nelle is still struggling with the bargain she made with the evil magician to steal the rose spellbook. She is opening up to the fact she has magic and soran is teaching her how to use it.
In this book so many other characters make a appearance and impact . During this cycle ,rosewood floats across the hinter much to close to the kingdom of night. A evil fae lord rules there and Nelle s magic has shown up on his senses.
Soran and Nelle are growing closer and opening up .
Overall full of action ,honestly plot lines that surprised me and I never saw coming.
I’m currently reading all on kindle unlimited but I’m going back to purchase this series.
This is the second book of Soran and Nelle. Nelle is still struggling with the bargain she made with the evil magician to steal the rose spellbook. She is opening up to the fact she has magic and soran is teaching her how to use it.
In this book so many other characters make a appearance and impact . During this cycle ,rosewood floats across the hinter much to close to the kingdom of night. A evil fae lord rules there and Nelle s magic has shown up on his senses.
Soran and Nelle are growing closer and opening up .
Overall full of action ,honestly plot lines that surprised me and I never saw coming.
I’m currently reading all on kindle unlimited but I’m going back to purchase this series.
April 2, 2025
╰►3.75/5 ⭐️ 0/5🌶️
Oh Soren, you poor, silly guy. I'm starting to feel bad for him and his depressing life he's been reduced to. Never had a friend besides his wyverns, no lover, just him and this big ass island and a demon. And honestly, the entire concept of dreams becoming living nightmares is just so interesting and not seen in other fantasy stories that whenever Sylvia writes it into her worlds, I eat it up. I can't wait to see what will unravel between Soren and Nelle in the next book.
My rating system:
⭐️: Not my vibe at all.
⭐️⭐️: I finished it, but I didn't have a good time.
⭐️⭐️⭐️: Yeah, that was fun. I enjoyed myself. I probably won't reread it, but it was fun.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️: I loved it and want to read more from this author.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️: Perfect, amazing, everything I love in a novel!
Oh Soren, you poor, silly guy. I'm starting to feel bad for him and his depressing life he's been reduced to. Never had a friend besides his wyverns, no lover, just him and this big ass island and a demon. And honestly, the entire concept of dreams becoming living nightmares is just so interesting and not seen in other fantasy stories that whenever Sylvia writes it into her worlds, I eat it up. I can't wait to see what will unravel between Soren and Nelle in the next book.
My rating system:
⭐️: Not my vibe at all.
⭐️⭐️: I finished it, but I didn't have a good time.
⭐️⭐️⭐️: Yeah, that was fun. I enjoyed myself. I probably won't reread it, but it was fun.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️: I loved it and want to read more from this author.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️: Perfect, amazing, everything I love in a novel!
November 4, 2020
Nelle and Soran continue in their tormented story in this second book of Sylvia Mercedes new series, a unique twist on Beauty and the Beast.
The Thorn maiden is still doing her utmost to escape while Soran is still doing his best to keep her locked away, Nelle still has a job to do while also learning who she is and learning more about Soran and who he is.
The island strays too close to a nightmare, bringing even more action into the plot and bringing an even more tense feeling to this wonderfully written tale with fantastic world building and characters that grow with every page.
I, for one, am totally enamoured by Soran, with all his visible scars as well as the invisible ones.
Can't wait to see how this story will end in the next book!
The Thorn maiden is still doing her utmost to escape while Soran is still doing his best to keep her locked away, Nelle still has a job to do while also learning who she is and learning more about Soran and who he is.
The island strays too close to a nightmare, bringing even more action into the plot and bringing an even more tense feeling to this wonderfully written tale with fantastic world building and characters that grow with every page.
I, for one, am totally enamoured by Soran, with all his visible scars as well as the invisible ones.
Can't wait to see how this story will end in the next book!
December 12, 2023
Suspenseful and Engaging.
I'd recommend this book to people who enjoy suspenseful books and some heat. Sylvia Mercedes does a fantastic job of keeping you on the edge of your seat, wanting to know what happens next. I'm not the biggest fan of reading books that have darker themes or characters. Sometimes, there are moments in our lives that are dark or when we feel dark and conflicted. When we have situations that are out of our control and choices aren't always easy and it's hard to see the end. But you don't give up and you do what you feel needs to be done even if you dont know how long it will take. This series so far has felt like that to me. I'm looking forward to reading the next book.
I'd recommend this book to people who enjoy suspenseful books and some heat. Sylvia Mercedes does a fantastic job of keeping you on the edge of your seat, wanting to know what happens next. I'm not the biggest fan of reading books that have darker themes or characters. Sometimes, there are moments in our lives that are dark or when we feel dark and conflicted. When we have situations that are out of our control and choices aren't always easy and it's hard to see the end. But you don't give up and you do what you feel needs to be done even if you dont know how long it will take. This series so far has felt like that to me. I'm looking forward to reading the next book.
January 1, 2021
Picks up right where the previous book stopped and Nelle is pursuing learning magic, bullspit really hits the fan when Sam shows up on the island(I had expectations for Sam but alas...). Soran discovers why Nelle is able to see and wield spells. Her heritage puts her in extreme danger and there's a lot of non stop crazy action when another enemy arrives on shore and Nelle has to battle not only the thorn maiden but creatures and folk from the Kingdom of Night.
I'm interested to see if Nelle and Soran will ever be honest with one another and why does Gaspard need the Thorn Maiden(seriously that's the only spell in the rose book right?)
I'm interested to see if Nelle and Soran will ever be honest with one another and why does Gaspard need the Thorn Maiden(seriously that's the only spell in the rose book right?)
February 28, 2021
Book 2: More action and adventure.
I liked how book 2 picked up where book 1 left off. We learned more about Nelle and Soran. I liked watching the dynamics of their relationship grow. We learned more about each character- their past and how they were growing (individually and together) since being together on the island. Thw inner struggle with each of them as they tried to deny the feelings that were starting to grow for each other was expertly detailed.
The descriptions of the different lands in this book were great.
Towards the end, to see one of them off to rescue the other, by determination and what ever means possible, wow! I can't wait to start book 3.
I liked how book 2 picked up where book 1 left off. We learned more about Nelle and Soran. I liked watching the dynamics of their relationship grow. We learned more about each character- their past and how they were growing (individually and together) since being together on the island. Thw inner struggle with each of them as they tried to deny the feelings that were starting to grow for each other was expertly detailed.
The descriptions of the different lands in this book were great.
Towards the end, to see one of them off to rescue the other, by determination and what ever means possible, wow! I can't wait to start book 3.
November 8, 2020
There is a lot more action and plot development in this story. My heart aches for Soren, despite all his past and quirks. I love and that's a strange word for me to use, all the horror invoking scenes with the Thorn Maiden. I haven't read or seen in a movie a character as horrifically complex. Nelle remains painfully divided between her love for her father and his welfare, and what she is experiencing with Soren. I've definitely formed opinions on this, but will leave you to your own thoughts. I am eagerly awaiting the third book!
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