Shield Bearer

Thornraven #2

by E.G. Manetti

*** 2021 RONE Award Winner ***

Within days of being rescued from Desperation Crevasse, Lilian must return at Lucius’ side as his shield bearer. Together with their guild allies, they will confront the Despoilers and end their threat to Blooded Dagger and the cartel.  In the savage battle, Lucius is injured leaving Lilian to protect him, Blooded Dagger, and the cartel.

Stranded on Desperation until he recovers, Lucius gathers his allies to protect his interests from rivals determined to exploit his weakness. With the aid of ancient guild lore, he and Lilian will seek to uncover the remaining Despoilers and penetrate the mystery of an ancient prophecy. Before he can return to Crevasse City and his center of power, one if his inner circle will challenge his preeminence and threaten Lilian’s survival. It will take all his cunning and Lilian’s courage to counter the betrayal before it endangers the Nightingale’s voyage to the Thirteenth System.

Across the Twelve Systems, from Desperation to Metricelli Prime, and Fortuna, Lilian and Lucius will battle to protect their love and forge a future for themselves, Blooded Dagger, Serengeti, and the Twelve Systems.

Author's This is the ninth book in the Twelve Systems Chronicles and a continuation of the story that begins in The The Apprentice, Volume 1.

Genres: Science Fiction, Romance

413 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 20, 2020

About the author

I write from the world around me, and the world around me is full of color.

Award-winning author EG Manetti has always enjoyed a vivid imagination and occasional scribbling. Her epic science fiction series, The Twelve Systems Chronicles, blends the intrigue and danger of space opera with the passion and social rigidity of historical romance.

The ten-volume series began in 2012, with The Cartel: The Apprentice, Volume 1, and completed in 2021 with Thorn Bearer: Thornraven, Volume 3. The series has received four Paranormal Guild Reviewers Choice Awards, seven InD’tale RONE (Reward for Novel Excellence) nominations with five volumes award finalist badges. Shield Bearer: Thornraven, Volume 2 received the 2021 RONE for Science Fiction.

Elemental Fire: The Hidden Realms #1, her first venture into fantasy, combines her favorite aspects of urban fantasy, paranormal romance, and action/adventure genres.

A former information technology project manager, EG resides in Florida with her beloved (often confounded) husband and their severely OCD Jack Russell Terrier. She writes as often as possible, cooks exceptionally, and gardens adequately.

The Twelve Systems Chronicles are epic science fiction romance that blends elements of space opera with the intrigue and suspense of a political thriller. “With characters that jump off the page, love that is forbidden yet unstoppable mixed with top-notch worlds and technology, sci-fi has never looked so good or become so addictive!” ~ InD'Tale Magazine, February 2018.

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Reviews

[Holly · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 Stars

My favorite historical-romance-sci-fi-corporation-fantasy-space-opera series (the only one that will probably ever fit that descriptor) is back in this latest installment. This ninth book primarily feels like a stepping stone in a much larger story arc involving the Despoilers and the Nightingale exploration. But even with that, we still have a lot of movement/action in this one involving the individual lives of the large cast of characters. New romantic relationships begin and some existing ones lead to a kind of marriage. I'm on board for the rest of this unique journey/series!

[Celestine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lilian's ordeal is over. This is the book that lifts her from trial by blood and the serious duties as chalice bearer and places her squarely on the path to, dare I say it, hope. There is an optimism that pervades this book, despite the obstacles of violence, anarchy and treachery. Lucius has dedicated himself to assuring Lilian's comfort in her present and manipulating the promising pinnacle of her future. And he doesn't like to be thwarted.

I want to talk about hope for a few minutes. The archaic definition of hope is "a feeling of trust." I didn't know that until I looked it up for this review. This definition couldn't be a more perfect collection of words for how I felt Lilian's story evolved in book nine of the Twelve Systems series. There is no doubt that Lilian's litany of "only this day" has given way to trust in her love for Lucius and faith in her deity, Adelaide.

The love between Lilian and Lucius is passionate, but mature, and spoken out loud. There is a confidence between them that never wavers. They take such joy and care in each other, and the author reveals this in small moments and big. Before battle, their fingers surreptitiously touch in a crowded room, and later there is no doubt of Lucius' favor regarding Lilian as he claims her as for a triumphant dance in front of the elite of the Twelve Systems. The way that Manetti seamlessly weaves one of the most recurrent cliches of a Regency-era romantic novel into a sci-fi space opera is delicious. Lucius displays ultimate trust in Lilian when he tells her, "See to my children." I also enjoyed the way that Cesare, the heir to Blooded Dagger, is very aware of the steadfast nature of the relationship between his father and Lilian, and seems to be influenced by it in his own budding romantic ventures.

There are astonishing moments of hope woven into the martial encounters and faithful observances surrounding the Five Warriors. At one point, Katleen remarks that with additional trials and dedications, Lilian is becoming more in tune with Adelaide. It is heartening to know that there is not only ferocity as part of being a faithful adherent to Adelaide, but also grace. The moments when her battle mates seek a blessing, during the mastery trial, with Malcon and later with Elysia, are transcendentally beautiful. Manetti's writing is so well done in these passages, that I felt a lightening in my own soul. I also think Lilian's devotion to doctrine gives her a balance of power with Lucius. One of these days, I would love to have a discussion with others about the role of faith in Manetti's books.

I would be remiss if I didn't mention that Lilian is one of the most fierce warriors who will fill the pages of any adventure book. If you like to read books where the heroine is an unstoppable force in battle, you need to pick up this series. She trains hard and she fights hard. The clash in the crevasse and the insurmountable odds brought to mind one of my favorite cinematic battle scenes, the fight for Helm's Deep in The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers. Manetti's battle was different in significant ways, but the image of the Destroyers advancing on Serengeti was reminiscent of the orcs overwhelming the Helm's Deep fortress. Stunning visuals were running through my head, and stunning bravery was on display.

One of the things I like most about this series is that it is always surprising. The patterns of action, romance and levity are impossible to map. One book will begin with levity and end with a battle, while this one begins with a battle and ends with euphoria. There are some *very well known* authors who follow a story pattern so closely that books they pump out are predictable and boring despite changes in characters. I promise, you will never be bored reading one of Manetti's Twelve Systems books. She gets the highest marks from me for original storytelling, creating incredible climactic scenes, and making me truly care about her characters. It takes talent to keep going with the same key characters for nine books and not only maintain but build on the romantic aspects as well as escalate the story intrigue to greater heights with each installment.

Speaking of intrigue, there are still so many mysteries to solve. Who betrayed Remus Gariten and started Lilian's ordeal? Why is the personal servitor in saffron mentioned so many times? Is Sabri sinister or just a snob? What role will Tiger Sylvester play in the future of the Faesitilis? Did the Ancients travel via the direction of the Thirteenth System? What is up with that mind reading? And perhaps most immediately, what is up the sleeve of Lady Epona's Socraidic robe? I think Lilian and Lucius might find out in book ten in Pinnacle City. Personally, I can't wait.

[〰️Beth〰️ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Update: Reread, excited because book 10 is out today!

Another Excellent Installment

There are many reasons why I can not wait for 2020 to end. Top of the list is the next volume in this series. Any chance of an early 2021 release EG?

This volume picks up where the last ends. More intrigue, action and romance. Such an amazingly crafted world and characters. I can not recommend this series enough!

[Laz the Sailor · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC in advance of my purchased copy.

This entry is fantastic! It starts off with a bang and then settles down to some good old-fashioned intrigue. Lilian and Lucius are back together, and they are a dangerous - and sexy - combination. Established bad guys, ancient evils, new opportunities, and a few twists that will surprise the most devious reader. The book ends with a "to be continued..." as everything is in place for a blow-out finale.

The descriptions are detailed without being tedious, and the spoken language is beautiful. Plus the wardrobe, jewelry, and erotic indulgences are delightful.

Note that you can't start here, at a minimum you need to read the previous book, but more realistically, you have to start at the beginning. There are dozens of characters, but it rarely gets confusing.

[TJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5/5.0
This installment of my most favorite Sci-fi series EVAH showcases exactly what propelled it to that exalted station. It is AWESOME! The story begins with a bang and edge of your seat action and nail baiting suspense. Then, it settles into the intrigue and machinations behind the scenes. And, of course, Lillian is in the center of it all, along with plots that seriously threaten Lucius and all he has built.

As the Despoilers continue to rise and the fight becomes more intense and critical to the overall system, Lillian and her cohorts discover the roots are much closer to home than ever imagined. Yet, Lillian still must battle the war of extreme hostility towards her among those she fights for. And, this time, the seeds of distrust and betrayal sink right into Lucius’ very family.

Oooohhhh.... it’s getting good, folks!!! The story is smart. It doesn’t allow the the reader to just blandly kick back and peruse. It requires thinking, plotting, deducing and concentrating on all those little subplots right along with the characters. And that is all kinds of page-turning, midnight-burning, heart-thumping fun!

[Babydoclaz · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC in advance of my purchased copy.
I have enjoyed the Twelve Systems Chronicles immensely, and Shield Bearer is excellent. It ties many things together from previous novels (the author must have a crazy whiteboard to keep track of all the details!) There is intrigue galore, the romance grows and is still HOT and some crazy reveals about characters. No spoilers here but this is a must read. It is best enjoyed if you have read the previous novels. Guarantee that if you start here, you will want to go back and find out more. E. G. Manetti is an excellent writer, her descriptions bring her characters and scenes to life (I want to be part of the Twelve Systems), and her plotting and world building is excellent. This is a fantastic sci fi AND romance novel.
Read the series! It will make you happy.

[InD'tale Magazine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating: 4.5/5.0

Hold on to your hats readers, because this series is un-put-downable, and this installment produces nail-biting pleasure!

Read full review in the 2020 Holiday issue of InD'tale Magazine.

[Debra Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you Santa's lover
November 21, 2022 Amazon

[E.G. Manetti]

One of my favorite passages.

***

Lilian sets aside the empty potion pouch knowing it will not be long before it makes her silly. Beside her, Monsignor remains fixed on his slate. Turning to the window, she gazes at the lights of the crevasse cutting through the plain. Deep in the chill black, behind the lights, snakes are moving. She detests snakes.

Monsignor sets aside his slate. “As do I.”

What says he?

“Detest snakes.” With a gentle tug, he pulls her from the sofa. “Enough for this day.”

As they enter the bedchamber, he loosens his tunic. Lilian releases his hand, enraptured by his muscled torso. His soft chamber shoes are discarded, followed by the trousers. He did not bother to don briefs after they showered. “You need to sleep.”

Slumber is not what she wishes. With a small smile she crosses to the bed. She slips her thorn under her pillow and turns. Her fingers work the fastening of her top, parting it in a slow tease to reveal her breasts. “There was no purpose in soiling lingerie for naught more than a period or two of use.”

Monsignor’s eyes flash with satisfying desire. Walking to the cabinet, she deposits the garment while offering Lucius her naked back. His sharp hiss is all she could wish. In two movements, she releases the skirt fasteners, pulling the cloth free to reveal the bright red curls at the apex of her thighs. The warbelt settles below her waist, winking its golden invitation.

Crossing the room, Monsignor pulls the blue length from Lilian’s hand and tosses it to the nearest chair. Catching her to him, he rubs his stiffening sex against her. “You were thus in the presence of Trevelyan and Aristides?”

She tilts her head to meet his heated gaze. “The skirt is midcalf. The seigneurs could not know.”

“Do you dare tease me, woman?”

“Yes, Mon—Lucius.” Lilian twines her arms around his neck, rubbing her length against him. I rather wish I had an ostrich feather.

“To what purpose would you employ the feather?”

“Have we a feather?”

“Not at the moment.” Tumbling her across the bed, he thrusts a knee between her thighs, pressing against her aching sex.

Lilian moves against the insistent thigh, her senses swimming with his kiss. Despoilers notwithstanding, Desperation is much nicer with his presence.

“I am pleased you find it so,” he whispers against her lips.

“There. I knew it.” She pulls back to gaze at him in triumph. “You do read my mind. I could not have voiced that thought, you were kissing me.” In a plaintive tone, she adds, “I wish you would not.”

“Kiss you?”

“Read my mind. It is very disconcerting. I enjoy the kissing.”

Laughter infuses his voice. “As you enjoy it, I shall repeat the action.”

[Karinloos · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC in advance of my purchased copy.

Once again the author has raised the bar and produced a thrilling, exciting brilliant book. If you are new to this series please note that to fully appreciate all the characters and all they have gone
through to reach this point, it is best to start at book 1 in this series, trust me you wont be dissapointed.

This book picks up almost immediately from the end of the last book. To recap at the end Lillian was in the crevasse with the group making a dash across the dark in attempt to get to
safety. The members of the group (including Lillian) were struggling and things were looking extremely dire, when suddenly a light appeared which turned out to be a transport with Lucius
coming to the rescue. The L word was exchanged (finally lol).

This book thus starts with Lillian in the infirmary getting treated for severe frostbite on her feet and in horror telling Lucuis about the crevasse and the fact that she is covered in lice.
All (including Lucuis now considering he carried her to safety) are then 'cleansed' of the lice. Shortly after this they head back into the Crevasse to confront and hunt down the
despoilers. This battle scenes are briliant, I as the reader was completely pulled in and it was as if I was experiencing it first hand. It gets rather tense once Lucius is injured
but Lillian saves the day. And this all happens in the beginning of the book. There is of course a big political intrigue with one of Lucius kinsman (not saying) related to this battle,
not to forget the possible death threat to Lillian for having uncovered the Ancients secret.

What I also loved in this book is that we get to see points of view of some of the other characters, example Rebeca and a possible relationship. We also get more of Lucius family
ie his daughter and sons. The potential strife and jealousy towards Lillian is also highlighted and luckily resolved. And last but certainly not least the bonding
( lol teaser not telling ). And of course the launch.

So much happens in this book that I fear my review is not doing this book justice. Just read it! Its an absolutely awesome read .

[Karma Queen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is another great installment to the series. Life for Lilian has changed for the better, but new problems arise as old ones are resolved. There is intrigue, espionage, action, family drama, steamy scenes, and more. Lucius has declared his love for Lilian and allows her to address him by name instead of title. Not all are pleased with his relationship with his protégé. There is a lot going on but it all ties together. You must start this series from the beginning to truly appreciate the world building and character development. It is well worth the time investment.

[DR. Amanda Pierce · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW WOW. can you give a remarkable novel like this E.G Manetti masterpiece more than FIVE stars if so I could. Ifg I was E.G I would check her water supply, make sure no one slipped some LSD in it for this remarkable novel of plot, scope, characters right out of HG Wells and other great Sci Fi writers is a tour de force of imagination, unbelievable scope, futuristic vision and I ate it up in two sets of white knuckle sessions and think E.G is a genius and am a new super fan for I love Sci Fi like she wrote, though few have done it better. Can't wait to read more best Dr. Amanda.

[Rstocks · Rating 5 out of 5]

A must read

A sleepless night was required for this installment. Could not put it down. Action packed with plenty of intrigue can’t wait to see what comes next.

[Shane · Rating 4 out of 5]

As always, mixed feelings with this series. Plot wise, everything is moving towards the crescendo, everyone growing up and learning from their experiences. Moving on. Yet, for me, this is still bittersweet for Lilian.

I supposed she has fallen to rock bottom that anything better than this is, well, even better. As usual, my bitterness is rooted on the Lucius and Lilian relationship. They had progressed much in this book while in-universe timeline is within six months after Estella’s death. No matter what, I will always associate Lucius’ act of having Lilian as a form of betrayal even if Estella is dying and Lilian, ah beloved Lilian, I so wished she had fallen with someone not Lucius because my heart is truly wounded.

I want her to have someone who will love her and have her first in her heart. Someone who would want her as a wife and not a consort. Someone who would be willing to have children with her even when she decided she would not. Someone who does not place her second because she will always be second to Lucius. Always. They are only together now because Estella is dead but if she’s not, I doubt they will be.

And that’s the unfair part. Lilian had suffered so much, she deserved to be treated as the best.

Ok, I am ranting now so let me just say that this left a bad taste in my mouth and to be honest, I do not think I’ll look forward to the next book.

I know I sound contradictory when I say that this book is good, plot wise, and the author does well in developing her characters. Unfortunately, personally speaking, my psyche just, just abhors the shit out of Lucius and Lilian’s relationship even though I love it as well. However, this love is only selectively thinking of their dynamics. Once all those apprentice and Estella stuff gets added, that’s when it becomes too unbearable. I disdain it with my entire being. I hate it, I hate it, I hate it.

Lastly, the family betrayal thing? That portion was boring. Don’t get me wrong, political intrigue is fun to read and I enjoy it which is why I find it extremely long drawn when it could have ended on a shorter note. And the proposal thing between Lucius and Lilian—anti climactic.

Overall? A 3 stars but because I am generous, so 4 stars.

[William Howe · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting

When I first started reading The Twelve Systems Chronicles, I was fortunate to read all of the first series (Apprentice) in quick succession. Any quirks of language or grammar become fluid after reading several novels written the same. You learn the rhythm, so to speak.

I mention that because it took me a while to sink into the rhythm of this book. Present tense is jarring if everything else you read is past tense. I still came to enjoy it, I simply struggled a bit to find my way.

There were a few typos and misplace words. Nothing terrible, but enough to notice.

I will continue to purchase and read the series.

[Peggy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love love love this series!

I have loved this series from the start. The world building, the characters, thecstory line, everything! I can barely wait until the next book comes out!

Thank you, EG Manetti, for a wonderful read.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5

As the tale is coming to a close, the intrigue is building. It is difficult to imagine how much more devastation the MC can be exposed to before love can triumph.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shield Bearer

The battle for order over anarchy continues in this installment of The Twelve Systems Chronicles. Lillian and Lucius gather allies old and new to fight the ancient evil. All the while preparing for the historic launch of The Nightingale. The impossible made possible accurately describe either and both of our heroes. Eagerly awaiting the discoveries of the thirteenth system and what the future hold for all.

[Dr susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Phenomenal sci fi romantic adventure

I have no idea why it took so long for Amazon's algorithms to suggest this series, but I benefited from having nine incredible books to read. Now I must wait for book 10. The writing and world building are excellent, the characters are fascinating and easy to love, but the deaths are heartbreaking, since even the secondary characters are wonderful. I will reread this series many times.

[Eva · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this series. Reread april 2023.