The Scouts

The Order #3

by Kasia Bacon

Lochan and Ervyn—an assassin and a sharpshooter—remain in service to the queen as part of an elite reconnaissance unit.

The Scouts are ghostlike. Elusive. Deadly.

They strike at enemies of the Crown without mercy. They get the job done, leaving no loose ends or witnesses. When Magic Supremacists threaten the safety of Elven Country, they do their duty—whatever it takes.

Lochan and Ervyn belong to each other, but will serving together as comrades-in-arms strengthen their bond as lovers or tear them apart?


The Scouts is the third book in the Order Series. In this volume, Ervyn loses control, Lochan stops fighting his feelings and Verhan… well, remains Verhan.

Recommended reading order: The Mutt, The Highlander, Twenty-One Arrow Salute, The Scouts.

Tags:
Military, Special Ops, Soulmates, Hurt/Comfort, Lust-to-Love, Humour, Snark, Banter, Moody vs Possessive, Mine-Mine-Mine, We-Belong-Together, Magic, Adventure & Fantasy Romance.

Genres: Fantasy, M M Romance, Romance, Magic, M M Fantasy, LGBT, Military Fiction

224 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 22, 2021

About the author

A linguist and an avid reader with a particular fondness for fantasy and paranormal genres, KASIA BACON lives in London with her husband. When not tearing her hair out over a translating project, she writes stories about the shenanigans of emotionally constipated assassins and sexy Elves. Otherwise, she can be found shaking her loins at a Zumba class, binging on anime or admiring throwing knives on Pinterest. A lover of MMA and Muay Thai, she also enjoys nature and the great outdoors. She dreams of becoming independently wealthy, leaving the city and moving into her wooden mini-manor—located in the heart of stunning forests resembling those of the Elven Country depicted in her tales.

For excerpts, free stories and updates about new projects, sign up for Kasia’s newsletter at:
kasiabacon.wixsite.com/orderseries/ne...


https://linktr.ee/KasiaBacon

Reviews

[☆ Todd · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well, I'll be damned if Kasia didn't do it again. Just like with all of her previous stories, this one was a winner from start to finish for me. : )



Even though this book, Kasia's longest to date, only had the Scouts deployed on a single dangerous mission, and quite literally *ALL* of that action was off page, I still found it impossible to put my eReader down, it was just that good.

And holy crap, the part of the story where Lochan was asked to SLEEP WITH SOMEONE ELSE to secure vital military intel on a dangerous Magic Supremacist, then it was about to actually happen, sweet baby Jesus, my heart was in my throat. Thanks for that, Kasia! Not. :- P



Yet, in spite of how awful I felt for both Lochan and Ervyn while that terrible situation was thrust upon them, Kasia ended up turning that godawful "For Queen and Country" event around and everything turned out okay, so crisis averted on that front, although only narrowly.

For the most part, this character-driven story was an exercise in showing the reader just how deeply that both of the closed-off, normally-restrained MC's cared for one another, generally without coming right out and saying so directly.



Like "The Horse Thing", where Ervyn and Lochan were apart, each on their own missions, at the end. Fucking. Swoon. That's all I can say about it, without getting super-spoilery, but read the book and you'll know exactly what I mean.

In regards to side characters, we were introduced to a few new ones, and I was thrilled to see Ervyn's cousin, Verhan, make two separate appearances. He was freaking hilarious and it was great to get a bit more backstory about how he and Ervyn grew up as kids in the Highlands. (The geese. *snort*)



I'd rate this story at 4.75 stars, only deducting a quarter star for putting me through "All That" under my spoiler tag and highly recommend it to all lovers of M/M fantasy tales.

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[* A Reader Obsessed * · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Hearts!

It’s no secret that I adore Ms. Bacon’s world of The Order, and this long awaited sequel to Ervyn and Lochan did not fail me. If you’re new to this universe, my recommendation is to read in publishing order starting with The Mutt

In case you didn’t know, Ervyn and Lochan are soldiers in the Scouts, the best of the best of the Queen’s elite defense, doing the impossible missions that only a very select few can accomplish. This time around, they’re trying to stop magic supremacists from causing havoc on the kingdom, and they are in desperate need of intel. The thing is, in order to get said intel, it will put their relationship to the test.

I admit at first that I was a bit disgruntled to find out that this starts technically 2.5 years after The Highlander​, because I really wanted to see all the details of Ervyn and Lochan’s burgeoning relationship. Though they are definitely committed now, both still harbor that deep buried fear that maybe, just maybe, they’re not good enough to keep the other. So, when this important mission throws a potential wrench in their dynamic, it puts them in a tailspin of insecurity, doubt, and jealousy. What it also does is allow the reader to bask in some delicious emotions, as well as some very intimate scenes between these two strong, capable, and lethal men, who only show vulnerability (rarely and sparingly) to the other. UNF! I love when that happens!

Instead of whetting my appetite, Ms. Bacon has only served to make me hungrier, and it will be a very long, torturous, pining wait for the next installment because although she leaves things not necessarily on a cliffhanger, there’s just enough of a hint of more challenges ahead for Ervyn and Lochan. For now, be reassured that this had plenty of action and suspense, swoony feels, romantic smexy, and a deeper peek into their touching, intense relationship, ending with these two solidly confident in each other’s love. I have no doubt we’ll be put through an emotional wringer in the future for other reasons, but the payoff will be well worth it, the tease here, always making you want more. So much more.

Bravo Ms. Bacon! Thank you so much for this, and I’m just putting it out there that I’m still eagerly waiting for all your other stories that need to come out, in the event you were wondering and weren’t sure of my wants and needs and desires. *wink*

A copy was given in exchange for an honest review

[Jewel · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Stars
The Scouts was well worth the wait. Oh, how I have missed Lochan and Ervyn! I did do a quick reread of The Mutt, The Highlander, and Twenty-One Arrow Salute, since it's been a while since I've immersed myself in this universe, and especially in  Lochan and Ervyn's stories. If you haven't read this series, do start at the beginning with The Mutt and prepare to fall in love. And if you have read them, but it's been a while, I would suggest a reread if you need it.

I already knew that Kasia Bacon was a master storyteller. Her short stories and novellas are exquisite. No wasted words and they're both satisfying and leave me wanting more! The Scouts is long for this author, and it's just as beautifully done. Spending time in The Order universe is an amazing way to pass the time and I'm definitely ready for more.

In The Scouts Lochan and Ervyn are serving together in more of a 'special ops' fashion. They live together, they serve together, and they do very delicious things with one another. I love the way Lochan surrenders so fully to Ervyn. It's sexy AF. And Ervyn takes such good care of Lochan, I get a little melty.

Their relationship has really developed since we last saw our boys. They're so comfortable together and so clearly in love, even if they haven't said the words, yet. Well, Lochan doesn't say much of anything, let's be real, but he has no problems expressing himself. There are a couple moments of tension and uncertainty, but not with their dedication to one another. That's never ever in question. 

My highlights:
~ The way Lochan just melts under Erwyn's touch
~ Erwyn's jealousy
~ Lochan's selfless dedication and loyalty
~ The way Lochan and Erwyn can communicate so well, with just a glance
~ Seeing Verhan and Hernan, again
~ The painting

If The Scouts is a delicious main course in this series, I'm looking forward to dessert!

Recommended.

Oh, and be sure to read the bonus scene at the very back, when you finish the story.

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ARC of The Scouts was generously provided by the author, in exchange for an honest review.

[Layla · Rating 5 out of 5]

I feel...bereft.
Truly.



This book had me in its clutches from the very first page and didn't let go. Even now, I'm thinkimg about it and I want to know what happens!

Once again, I'm kicking myself for not reading this author before. Her books have everything I love about MM romance, and romance in general.
- Layered Nuanced characters
- intricate plots
- swoony romance
- possessive Jealous MCs who are completely devoted to their partner
- Wonderful world building
- beautiful writing
- Sensual steam

This book was fantastic and I WANT MORE.

[Bev · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oi! Ms. Bacon! You had me worried there missus, I was sweating at one point, you and your dratted spanner in the works! What a ride you took me on, and I loved every. single. second.

I've always said this author is the queen of shorties, and then she goes and pens a longer story that was pure Kasia Bacon, but with bells on. Yes, this was an arc, yes I'm gushing, but I do not gush if it's not warranted and The Scouts takes all that was fabulous in this series and makes it stellar, so I'm going to gush.

I loved Ervyn and Lochan when we first met them and now we get to see them in an established relationship, see their growth and also get more of the intrigue and world building. Ervyn and Lochan are just so good together, the perfect pairing.

I love this series, and am excited for where the author is going to take us next.

ALL the stars for Ervyn and Lochan.

[Rosabel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dear Kasia, you're going to kill me with this series, I hope the next one comes out soon because this reader needed more. 😫😫

...There is gonna be a next one right? I mean that dude said that winter was coming to Lochan and Ervyn, so there is obviously another one right? *sighs*. Anyways, I really loved this, it was more fluffy than I thought it would be and I loved it! I loved seeing the boys together, in a relationship, trusting one another and having issues as well. Lochan was so open it was wonderful to witness and I swear Ervyn can't be more wiped.

The worldbuilding keeps getting bigger, at a slow pace but it's happening and the worlds from her books are colliding a little so that's awesome too.

Loved this, loved this boys, want another one. 😭🥰❤

[Drusilla · Rating 5 out of 5]

My heart aches with love for this book. I cried a little because it was just so beautiful to read.
I have a lot of authors that I like, and then I have a few authors that fall into the exceptional category with me, and now that includes Kasia Bacon.
It's simply this style of writing that lets you know that someone has really put effort into it, and it tells of a fantasy world in a completely unique way. It's not this huge epic fantasy, the book only shows a small section of this world and doesn't go into big explanations. And yet I never felt like I was missing anything. Of course there are questions in my head, but somehow I feel strangely content with this little piece of the puzzle that Kasia has given me with this book.
Lochan and Ervyn are insanely interesting characters. I'm glad that this third book gets right into the action and doesn't retell the content of the two prequels or the characters' relationship. I have to point that out, because that's something that often bugs the crap out of me in other series.
What I think you should like if you want to read this series is elite military squads and operations. Because there is not much gimmicky stuff here either, so no unnecessary explanations. Kasia leaves a lot of room for the reader to imagine everything themselves, but still leads you well through the story.
Plot-wise, the book might be too sparse for some readers. I myself am a bit surprised by the rather open end and missing a few parts for the finish. In principle, this fits what I said before, that this story seems to be only a small piece of the puzzle.
It's hard to put into words, yet I'm not disappointed but actually satisfied? Funny thing, normally I would be ranting right now.
Kasia must have played a complete trick on me and I'm so enamored with Lochan and Ervyn that everything else doesn't matter.

“Mhm,” he murmured.
I never imagined that I’d be beyond ecstatic hearing such a response to my most ardent and heartfelt declaration of love. But an embrace and one syllable from Lochan Féyes carried more weight than a sonnet and a blood oath coming from another. And that was that. 😍😍😍

[Gabi · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not what I expected. Knowing this is a longer novel than the previous ones, it led me to believe there will be some action. But there was very little scheming in it, basically the author showed us Lochan and Ervyn's life as Scouts. They're basically nomads with whatever task they need to do, that's where they go.

Mostly I found it boring and part of it was because of high expectations, but another part that it was just simply bo-ring. I love Lochan and Ervyn, individually and together as well. But this felt like yet another prequel for a longer (say about 500 pages) story. A very sweet prequel. There wasn't really much of a plot. It was good to see Verhan though. :)
The dual pov wasn't really working.

So the rating is mostly for me, to remember not to expect too much next time. :/

[Virginia Cavanillas · Rating 5 out of 5]

So beautiful. Loved it. From the always great “dear reader” to the very end. Loved the jealousy, Lochan and Ervyn as a couple, Lochan himself, the humor, the sarcasm, the wonderful dialogues, the sexiness... EVERYTHING.

Kasia is a goddess, her use of the language is so beautiful it never ceases to amaze me.
Reading her is like reading poetry somehow. I love that mixture of grandiose old fashioned words and the dirty coarse ones.

Longer than it’s predecessors (longer than any Order book, actually) The Scouts follows up Ervyn and Lochan two years after The Highlander and it’s an absolute pleasure and a delight.
Also: Verhan [insert here tons of laughing and hearty eyes emoticons]
Also: a hilarious interview

Highly recommended!

Out on April 22

P.S: Kasia, I’m dying to translate this beauty into Spanish. Just saying.

[Deborah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Short review - WOW

Longer review - I can never get enough of these guys so a longer book sounded amazing. And it was, is but it’s still not enough. I could read about Lochan and Ervyn all day and still want more.

This book is fabulous. We catch up with the guys about two and a half years after our last meeting. They’re settled in the Scouts and fully committed to each other. Yes it’s only a matter of time before Ervyn buys him that horse.

It’s such a visual book if that makes sense. The previous short stories were a feast, descriptive and decadent always feeling like more than the sum of their pages. This is the same. It helped that I did the recommended re-read of The Mutt, The Highlander and Twenty-One Arrow Salute first. I was so ready for more.

But it’s not all smooth sailing there’s a couple of heart in throat moments. So thank you for that Kasia.

We also catch up with Verhan and Hernan and it’s impossible not to love the little gobshite.

I desperately want more and I’m not known for my patience. But while I’m chomping at the bit for the next book.

“There’ll be trials ahead for you. Darkness. Despair. Pain that can break you. Love isn’t always enough.”

I’m also kind of dreading where it will take us.
So I would ask the author to please be kind to us and the guys.

I voluntarily read a review copy kindly provided the author. This review is my honest opinion

[Barbara➰ · Rating 5 out of 5]

My boys are back! *Swoon*

When Kasia asked if I wanted an early copy, my only response was you never have to ask, just send it. I will never say no to more from her. Something about her writing always captivates me. This was no different.

Lochan and Ervyn have found their place and are serving the Queen, each with their own set of particular skills. All the while, navigating their blossoming relationship.

I love Ervyn's possessiveness. Mine, mine, mine! He gives Lochan everything he needs, allows him to let go of control.

There's lots of swoon-worthy moments, hot moments and even one or two that left me messaging Kasia for moral support. But never fear, our boys are safe.

I love we get more of Verhan and Hernan as well. I'd really like to see another book about them.

Needless to say, I'm already jonesing for the next one.

[Cadiva · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another hit entry in the fabulous Order series

Not sure why my original review never posted so here it is again.

Ervyn and Lochan are my favourite elves and here we get them not only off doing acts of daring do but also exchanging those magical words that will have you melting.

I can never decide which one of them is my favourite but for The Scouts I'm going with Ervyn as he has a lot to deal with when a Baroness with information takes a shine to the deadly half-breed assassin he calls his own.

I've given up trying to express how much in awe I am of Kasia's ability to craft such rich worlds and evoke such depth of feeling with so few pages.

Here is no exception as we get some flaming hot intimacy alongside the tensions of an action packed secret mission.

Also bonus points from guest appearances from Verhan and his red-haired love Hernan ❤

She is and will ever be my Queen of fantasy romance.

[Kasia Bacon]

THE SCOUTS: NOW LIVE!!

My hot, long-haired Elven warriors are back—pointy ears, snark and all.

The Scouts: think special ops but in a fantasy setting!

Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B092QNK3DM
Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B092QNK3DM

Release Date: 22 April
Length: 224 pages
Heat level: Sultry
Tags: Military, Action & Adventure, Banter/Humour, Mine-Mine-Mine, We-Belong-Together, Hurt/Comfort, Soulmates

Don't forget to read the CHARACTER INTERVIEW at the back!
Or you can access it here: https://kasiabacon.wixsite.com/orders...

[Ky · Rating 5 out of 5]

* 5 stars *

The Mutt and The Highlander​ were just the beginning. They were prequels, short stories to give us a glimpse and wet our appetite, to prepare us for the real thing. And if the world building and the characters managed to capture you in just a few pages, like it happened with me, then you're in for a great adventure with The Scouts.

The first full length novel in the series, takes place about two and a half years after Ervyn and Lochan joined the Scouts. They are still together and they have no plans of changing that any time soon.

I liked their military's approach regarding couples, they were protected and respected regardless of being in the same team. So Ervyn and Lochan didn't have to hide or pretend, they could be together out in the open. Their society was like that as well, everything was out in the open and there were no expectations about the gender or the roots of anyone's partner.

The story follows the Scouts as they work on a mission and they move through a number of towns. That means that there are some familiar faces making quick or longer appearances and it was nice to see them and remember their stories.

The general mood in the first few chapters was possessive and jealous. Ervyn and Lochan had to make a choice and they did what was expected of them, hoping that they would be able to salvage their relationship. Don't let that scare you, though. Apparently, Kasia Bacon is an expert at creating some delicious tension, wrting some angsty scenes, keeping us on the edge of our seats and then soothing us and placing everything back together again. And she does all that, while keeping the characters and their relationship intact. It doesn't even feel fake or like trying too much for angst, it's just perfect!

Lochan and Ervyn are working very well together, both as teammates and as a couple. Lochan is the stoic, quiet, serious one. The one with walls all around him, who keeps himself away from people and doesn't trust easily. And Ervyn is the funny, social one, the mischievous Dark Elf who talks a mile a minute when he comes across anyone from his neck of the woods. He's also the only one who Lochan allows to get close.

In the sequels, we only got to see a teaser of Lochan lowering his defences to let Ervyn in. This time, though, their relationship has progressed with time and Lochan is a lot more relaxed around Ervyn. He lets him touch him more easily and he's more approachable. He isn't afraid to be vulnetable when they're together and it's glorious to see him like that.

There will be more coming from this couple in the future, as the ending as somewhat open. It's not a cliffhanger exactly, but it's clear that there's more. I'm both happy and frustrated about that, though. I'm happy because of course I want more stories in this universe in general and more tales from Lochan and Ervyn in particular. And I'm frustrated because I don't want to wait, I want them now!

Honestly though, I know that however long it takes for the next part of Lochan and Ervyn's story to get here, it's going to be worth it, just like this one did.




~ I read an ARC of this book. ~

[Ariana (mostly offline) · Rating 5 out of 5]

4,5 stars

We met Lochan in The Mutt and Ervyn in The Highlander​
This book takes place about 2 years after these events and gives us an idea what life in the Scouts is like for them.

Danger, deathly stealth and ruthlessness are on the regular menu for both men, and in one case enormous personal sacrifice. Thank God, the latter one worked out better than expected because my heart was in my throat, at least as much as Ervyn’s!

I loved how we get to see how soft and sweet these hard-ass men are when they are with each other. How they open up and show their vulnerable side. How they would do anything for the other. Lochan, in particular, has loosened up to the extent that he even speaks a few sentences at one time! 😁 And I totally adore their bedroom dynamics. Kasia Bacon really knows how to turn on the heat! These guys are explosive together!

The Scouts gives us a much bigger picture, not only of Lochan and Ervyn’s relationship, but also of their universe. We even get a glimpse of Ervyn’s family and a much-appreciated cameo by Verhan. Got to love that guy!

Although longer than the previous novella-length books, I'm greedy enough to confess I can do with an even bigger helping!

Fabulous characterization, a huge variety of feels and a clear hint that there will be more, with trials and tribulations in store for these two men in the future.

The sooner, the better, that’s all I can say! Can't wait!

[dix (1001 year old high strung anamoly) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finally, I have read the full length novel starring my favorite elves Lochan and Ervyn !
They are soldiers, lovers and soulmates who fight in the elite unit 'The Scouts' in service to the Queen. Oh, that was so much fun. Lochan with his assassin skill and Ervyn with his sharpshooter skill - them in their element fighting and having adventures ! Along with action, there was plenty of drama and romance which I loved. Though a warning from a certain shop owner still dances before my eyes. I just wish everything turns out good and my elves be happy forever.

Lochan fully accepting his and Ervyn's love was awesome! I'm happy that he comes out of his shell. And Ervyn, him loosing control was freaking hot. Both of them making their relationship work and learning to be together was everything sweet and fluff *sigh*
We-belong-together and mine-mine-mine always gets me, so yes, this novel was instant favourite.

[Devoted❤️Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Elven way

I adore the characters and worlds that Kasia Bacon so beautifully and skillfully weaves and oh how I’ve missed Ervyn and Lochan! Two people so capable and dangerous but when it’s just them, we get to see a softer side that I treasure, and some not-so-soft sides too, yum. I loved seeing them show their devotion to each other—quite moving—and how they’ve grown as a couple. “The conviction that there would never be another like him, that he was it for me—and everything I needed in the world—washed over me in a familiar wave.” Gah, pure swoons. Although there were some worrisome moments, when the ever-amazing Lochan and Ervyn are together they’ll always find a way, or make one of their own. They make me smile, make my heart happy and make me want to live in their incredible world.

[Achim · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5

[Susana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Two years after they first met, Ervyn and Lochan’s relationship has grown much more than what they ever expected. And yet, there is still more to come…
I love this series, all the characters I’ve read about I really liked. But I adore Ervyn and Lochan, because they were the first I read about, and I’ve been crazy about elves even since I read TLOTR, long, long time ago. So it’s been a pleasure reading about the deep bond they share, and witnessing their first I-love-yous. And it’s also been great to sneak a peek at their life as Scouts, the elite corpse of the elven army, and getting reacquainted with some very special characters from the previous books
There is some anguish, lots of sexy times, humour and adventures, danger and love-making… but above all this, there is a wonderful and complex Universe which will grab you and draw you in, a Universe you won’t want to leave…
Definitively worth your time
I received a copy of this book, and this is my honest review.

[Elena · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars rounded up! :) :) :)

Oops, she did it again! Kasia Bacon and her elves stole my heart! Again!

I’ve definitely missed Lochan and Ervyn too much!!! Thanks to Kasia and her many little in-between novellas – from the same universe but with different pairings – I’ve managed to survive without my elven scouts until this beauty came out ;) And boy, was that worth the wait!

The Scouts is longer (I think the longest yet) and shows us the MCs two years into their service as elite scouts. And I’m very happy to report that even though two years have passed since The Mutt and The Highlander​ everything is fine and dandy between Lochan and Ervyn :)

It’s so uplifting to see that they are treated as a couple even by their commanding officers and, even though they sometimes have to be separated due to the character of their missions, they still come back to each other’s arms at the end of the day. Their glances before and then their home-comings were very sweet.

And thank you Kasia for the way they’ve changed, too. Ervyn is still the controlling force, the worrier and the comfort provider but he’s also soooo ready to say those magical three words (and to buy some… specific item, LOL!). And Lochan? I simply loved him in this instalment!!! As an elite assassin he has the abilities to adapt and adapt he does! His trust in Ervyn, the way he’s opening up little by little and even his interactions with Verhan and Hernan - yes, they’re back!!! 😉 – made me root for him even more.

As for the storyline? Kasia Bacon is an artist at work. Her style is flowing, her ability to convey so much emotion and content with so few words will never cease to amaze me! The Scouts is sweet, emotional, action-packed and so very beautiful!
What I loved most:
- Lochan’s transformation
- Commander Heinnes ;)
- Some “niddle work” ;)
- Verhan/Hernan bickering
- Steamy (and a bit kinky) times
- The extra scene!

My only quibble is the cover - that's not how I imagine Lochan and Ervyn in my hear :(
Hence half a star down.

To sum up, if you love Lochan and Ervyn already - go and grab The Scouts ASAP!
If you're new to The Order universe - I'd suggest reading The Mutt, The Highlander​ and Twenty-One Arrow Salute first (they're short, you'll catch up real quick).

Ow! And don't miss the extra scene and especially THE INTERVIEW with our lovely MCs at the very end!!! That was simply hilarious :)

Highly recommended!!! Kasia Bacon, I think I love you! ;)

[Ray Flores · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5/5
The Scouts takes place a couple of years later than we last seen Ervyn and Lochan. They’re serving together and whilst their comrades are OK with their relationship, in this one we see them getting jealous, passionate and tender with each other thanks to one over of the top request from the Queen’s exes.

Now, it has both of their POVs and I believe it’s also the longest book in The Order series –my heart was craving for it and it surpassed my expectations completely. I actually had to stop myself from finishing the book in one sitting ‘cause I just wanted it to last.

Honestly, I was fangirling most of the time because I’ve known these characters for years now and every time I meet with them again is such a joy! It just feels familiar to me, like seeing a friend you wanted to meet with for a long time. Besides, the cameos of characters from her other series made me smile and say “I see what you did there.”

Anyway, what I loved the most was seeing Lochan finally confessing his feelings towards Ervyn and their tender moments. I’ve said this before and they’re inferno hot but seeing all those soft moments made me utterly happy for them. Ervyn’s family interactions were an A+++ too. Verhan is still my fav character ‘cause their banter is just top notch.

As usual, Kasia’s writing style is so polished you feel transported in a fantasy world with only a few words. Also, can we talk about how beautiful the map is? It just adds more kudos to this third book! What can I say, I just loved with all my heart!

I would totally recommend you to keep reading the series ‘cause it’s only getting better and better!

I received an ebook ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.

PREVIOUS REVIEWS:
The Mutt | The Highlander | Twenty-one Arrow Salute

OTHER BOOKS FROM THE ORDER UNIVERSE:
Blessings and Light | Rago | The Poison Within | Don't fight the Spark | When I first saw Red

[Rosa · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed this one but I was expecting more from this longer story about the Scouts. But I know this is a situation "It's me, not the book". I would have preferred if the plot were more centered on the Scouts as an unit and their mission and the political ramifications those have in this world, rather than in Ervyn and Lochan's feelings. Would I continue with this? Absolutely, more after what's hinted at the end when we got Lochan's POV.

[Agalactiae · Rating 4 out of 5]

Si les précédents opus me laissaient sur ma faim concernant la relation des deux personnages principaux, je peux dire que ce n'est pas le cas avec « The Scouts ».

Ce tome est pour moi plus immersif que les autres, plus développé c'est certain et surtout, même si la relation entre Ervyn et Lachan a changé depuis « The Higlander », nous sommes témoins de l'expression de leurs sentiments de façon un peu plus poussée je dirais.

Dans « The scouts », Lochan et Ervyn servent ensemble mais surtout vivent ensemble, comme un couple peut le faire. Seulement, les sentiments de nos deux guerriers vont être un peu perturber, du moins dans le bon sens du terme.

J'ai aimé la façon dont Ervyn s'occupe toujours si bien de Lochan mais aussi la façon dont Lochan baisse les armes devant Ervyn. C'était beau de les voir exprimer leur amour, enfin surtout dans chaque petit geste du quotidien, dans leur intimité, leurs regards. Ils communiquent plus aussi et que j'ai aimé les voir enfin vraiment communiquer ! Surtout Lochan, mais je ne dirai rien de peur de trop en dévoiler ^^ Juste, ben que ils sont tellement honnêtes, et loyaux l'un envers l'autre, c'est vraiment beau... le tout joliment raconté par la plume de l'auteur, c'est vraiment délicieux !

J'aurais tellement voulu avoir un aperçu d'une certaine peinture, ce passage est délicieux ! J'ai adoré aussi voir ces deux hommes jaloux... Ah la la...

Un tome que j'ai beaucoup aimé du coup ! J'ai été ravie de revoir aussi Verhan et Hernan, ils m'ont fait sourire ^^

[Joyfully Jay · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Joyfully Jay review.

4.5 stars

It’s been four years since the last Ervyn and Lochan book was released and I was thrilled to be back in their world. This is part of The Order universe and picks up 2 ½ years after the events of the last book. Ervyn and Lochan are deep into their service for the Queen, working as an assassin and a sharpshooter, and they are deeply in love with each other. Their love is still sharp and raw though, for as deeply committed to each other as they are, for as well as they know each other, they still feel the flames of deep jealousy and insecurity and are still waiting for the moment their relationship will start to unravel.

The book is primarily told from Ervyn’s point of view and that was a great place to be, until Lochan’s point of view kicked in and the balance between the two of them is phenomenal. Their sharp wit, intense longing, and continual chemistry is legendary and the flow of the dialogue and the entire atmosphere of this book makes it a magical place to visit.

Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.

[Valerie · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was amazing to catch up with Lochan and Ervyn as well as immerse myself back into the world feeling as though I'd never left. The book takes place over two years since they became a couple. It's great to see their relationship is not only as strong, but the connection between the two men is unbreakable, even working together. The cast of characters around them are so supportive and I can't wait to go back and read the entire series in order.

[Lori¸¸¸.•*❀Ɍɛɑɗs̱LɪƙɛIʈs̱H̱ɛɍJɔɓ 유❤유 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well, damn it! I NEED more and I know this author isn't the most prolific which means waiting again. Argh!

I adore this author's mind. She has such a great world built up with amazing characters and her stories aren't even all that long so I don't quite understand how she gets so much out of so little, so-to-speak. I have read everything of hers and I can't get enough.

Ervyn and Lochan have one of those warriors love stories that you fantasize about and want for people for real. The kind that if they live through their service they could have a happily ever after. Yes, they are still new to their relationship but they are utterly devoted to each other & I couldn't see them being any other way.

The setup in the story with the Baroness was very clever in my opinion. It truly made them know they were in love & it was killing them, but it was an interesting outcome. I can't wait to see if more of that subplot unfolds. It was nice to get the bonus scene afterwards but I agree it wasn't necessary in the book.

I will wait with bated breath for the next book in the series. This author is really amazing in my opinion and although I wish the books came a little faster and were longer, it doesn't make me any less of a fan and I realize each author writes in their own time and it's not okay to harass them about it. With the invention of the ebook & being able to have more books at our fingertips faster and oftentimes cheaper, I think our expectations of authors to write faster and put out more content than they are comfortable with is becoming very prevalent. I read a lot and greatly appreciate the sheer volume of books there are available to read so I try not to be too disappointed if I have to wait longer for a book than I would like.

Anyway, tangent over. Read this series! It's amazing,

[~nikki the recovering book addict · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars

I love Kasia Bacon. I do. And I absolutely love the stories she creates. But I kinda feel like I’m not getting a full story every time she releases a book. I get snippets and it’s great and has me absolutely frothing for more. But we don’t really get a full picture. A bit here, a bit there.

I want a proper full length, complete novel dammit! 😭😭😭😭😭

[Pam · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was the new(ish) release that prompted the re-read, and ... I was a little disappointed. Mostly I think this author just doesn't work for me anymore (I originally read these very early in my m/m reading). It wasn't bad. I really do enjoy her worlds. But so much of the story is just internal dialog. Once again, the 3 stars is because I'm rounding up.

[Allison · Rating 4 out of 5]

**beta**

I love Bacon's world and her characters. I love the snark and the underlying love in all her books.

I reread the entire series in preparation for reading this one and I recommend everyone do so, they aren't long so you can binge them all and immerse yourself in this fantastic society. Lochan finally giving into the love he has for Ervyn is not to be missed. But the giggles I got along the way made it even better!

[Tan✨ · Rating 4 out of 5]

5 stars for getting me EXTREMELY hot and bothered at a very inappropriate time because I was stupid enough to read this during a lecture.

But -1 star for leaving me wanting so much more with that abrupt ending :(

That scene with the painting. Yeah. Yes.