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Rise of the Warlords #2
The Immortal
New York Times
bestselling author Gena Showalter delivers The Immortal, the second dark and sexy book in her Rise of the Warlords series, featuring the son of a war god and stubborn harpy forced to relive the same day over and over.
Halo Phaninon, assassin of gods, is as cold and merciless as a machine. For victory, he crosses any line. When tasked to kill twelve of mythology’s fiercest monsters in twenty-four hours, Halo eagerly accepts. Except, each morning he awakens to the same day, forced to relive new horrors. Only one other person retains their memory—the beauty who threatens his iron control.
Ophelia the Flunk Out hates her disaster of a life. She’s the family disappointment, a harpy warrior without a kill and powerless—or is she? Nearly every night she’s doomed to repeat her own murder, but each morning she arises to spar with Halo, the ruthless warlord increasingly determined to save her…and lure her to his bed.
Halo’s insatiable desire for the stubborn Ophelia drives him wild…and he only craves more. If he remains in the time loop, they stay together. But if he escapes, they lose each other forever.
Rise of the Warlords
Book 1: The Warlord
Book 2: The Immortal
Halo Phaninon, assassin of gods, is as cold and merciless as a machine. For victory, he crosses any line. When tasked to kill twelve of mythology’s fiercest monsters in twenty-four hours, Halo eagerly accepts. Except, each morning he awakens to the same day, forced to relive new horrors. Only one other person retains their memory—the beauty who threatens his iron control.
Ophelia the Flunk Out hates her disaster of a life. She’s the family disappointment, a harpy warrior without a kill and powerless—or is she? Nearly every night she’s doomed to repeat her own murder, but each morning she arises to spar with Halo, the ruthless warlord increasingly determined to save her…and lure her to his bed.
Halo’s insatiable desire for the stubborn Ophelia drives him wild…and he only craves more. If he remains in the time loop, they stay together. But if he escapes, they lose each other forever.
Rise of the Warlords
Book 1: The Warlord
Book 2: The Immortal
384 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 1, 2022
269 people are currently reading
6622 people want to read
About the author
Gena Showalter
262 books27.9k followersGena Showalter is the New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling author of over seventy books, including the acclaimed Lords of the Underworld series, the Gods of War series, the White Rabbit Chronicles, and the Forest of Good and Evil series. She writes sizzling paranormal romance, heartwarming contemporary romance, and unputdownable young adult novels, and lives in Oklahoma City with her family and menagerie of dogs and cats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 272 reviews
January 31, 2023
2.5 Stars
February 27, 2022
The second book in Gena's new and action-packed Rise of the Warlords series, The Immortal, did not disappoint!
The Immortal is as fun, sexy and unpredictable as the first book. I loved everything about it! From the characters, to the world building, to the plot itself, it was a wild ride and I demand more. The story is so clever and original, I truly enjoyed every page of it.
Ophelia, our Harpy heroine, was a new addition to this world, and as always with Gena, she was a sassy, funny, brave heroine who wasn't afraid to contend with our hero, Halo. If you've read The Warlord, then you've met Halo, the second in command of the Astra Planeta. Halo is everything I love in my PNR hero: fierce, strong, unmovable and loyal. I loved reading about them, their banter was the best, I wasn't bored once.
This book can be read as a standalone, but I highly recommend reading the first one, not only because it's absolutely amazing, but also because it gives you insights into many other characters and a better look at the world. It also helps you understand a little of what's going on in The Immortal.
Disclaimer: I was able to read an early copy of this book as I work for the author.
The Immortal is as fun, sexy and unpredictable as the first book. I loved everything about it! From the characters, to the world building, to the plot itself, it was a wild ride and I demand more. The story is so clever and original, I truly enjoyed every page of it.
Ophelia, our Harpy heroine, was a new addition to this world, and as always with Gena, she was a sassy, funny, brave heroine who wasn't afraid to contend with our hero, Halo. If you've read The Warlord, then you've met Halo, the second in command of the Astra Planeta. Halo is everything I love in my PNR hero: fierce, strong, unmovable and loyal. I loved reading about them, their banter was the best, I wasn't bored once.
This book can be read as a standalone, but I highly recommend reading the first one, not only because it's absolutely amazing, but also because it gives you insights into many other characters and a better look at the world. It also helps you understand a little of what's going on in The Immortal.
Disclaimer: I was able to read an early copy of this book as I work for the author.
November 27, 2022
I fucking loved this book!!!! Gena Showalter wrote another fabulous tale from her Rise of the Warlords series!!! I knew Mr cold as ice Halo Phaninon was a hot sexy beastie deep down!!! All that muscle and handsome cold looks hid his fire and dominant alpha, he just needed the right woman . And he's about to come totally undone by the beautiful part harpy and part nymph Ophelia Falconcrest! Ophelia is a fabulous character so full of life with a quick mind and a quicker mouth! But all her bravo and tough acting hides a very sensitive woman who's own mother berated her constantly who's had to fight her emotional side to try and become top dog General of harpy. When her and Halo collide its a instant attraction for both. He gives her warmth and brings out her sexy nymph side and she brings out feelings that he thought were long dead but before these two can feel each other out Erebus appears to Ophelia and hes up to his old tricks again and Ophelia unwillingly become's part of Halo's twelve Hercules trails and the twist is Ophelia will be his downfall and the Astra will finally lose. But Erebus underestimated this pair because together their love will be unstoppable. The chemistry between Ophelia and Halo was awesome and between fabulous dirty talking and some really steamy sex scenes and sexual banter this was one of Gena's more steamy reads and I loved it and this couple so much! Gena showalter is a hell of storyteller and this series is one of my favorites! Her characters are always complexed with many layers and great back stories . I can't wait to read book 3 The Phantom its Roux and Blythe story coming in February 2023!!! Until next time Lives 💕💋
February 20, 2022
4.5 STARS
I live for Gena Showalter's brand of banter. LIVE FOR IT. It Never fails to put a goofy smile on my face and keeps reading well into the night. And this book was definitely no exception. The Rise of The Warlords series has quickly become my new obsession and I eagerly anticipate each new installment. And while I really liked the first book in this series, I loved this one even more.
Halo Phaninon is the ultimate tortured hero. This is a man who had his humanity and any and all emotion beat out of him when he was just a young boy. He feels nothing and kills without feeling. His only goal is the success of the Astra's mission. Women are just a means to an end to him, until Ophelia.
I absolutely love Showalter's heroines. The sass, fierceness, and banter they're all chock full of just does it for me. And Ophelia the Flunk Out is all of the things. A harpy nymph, all she's ever wanted was to prove herself, and she seems to fail at every turn. When she's thrown into a loop of challenges with the cold and unfeeling Halo, things get seriously interesting. Halo's goal is to win at all costs while on an unending loop of a repeat of the day. Her goal is slightly different. The chemistry between them? Unspeakably hot.
This was another fantastic addition to what's become an incredibly addictive series. The banter, the chemistry, the twists and turns, all of it made for one page turner of a read. I loved seeing Halo slowly thaw for the sassy harpynymph. I loved seeing Ophelia slowly come into her own and become the fierce warrior that she was always meant to be. And the chemistry between them was just everything. I can't wait for more in this world!
ARC courtesy of publisher in exchange for an honest review
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He glowered at her. “Why can’t you enjoy staying safe?”
“Because I’m a hardcore warrior with titanium ovaries.”
I live for Gena Showalter's brand of banter. LIVE FOR IT. It Never fails to put a goofy smile on my face and keeps reading well into the night. And this book was definitely no exception. The Rise of The Warlords series has quickly become my new obsession and I eagerly anticipate each new installment. And while I really liked the first book in this series, I loved this one even more.
“I’m passionate about my belief that I’m right.”
Halo Phaninon is the ultimate tortured hero. This is a man who had his humanity and any and all emotion beat out of him when he was just a young boy. He feels nothing and kills without feeling. His only goal is the success of the Astra's mission. Women are just a means to an end to him, until Ophelia.
I absolutely love Showalter's heroines. The sass, fierceness, and banter they're all chock full of just does it for me. And Ophelia the Flunk Out is all of the things. A harpy nymph, all she's ever wanted was to prove herself, and she seems to fail at every turn. When she's thrown into a loop of challenges with the cold and unfeeling Halo, things get seriously interesting. Halo's goal is to win at all costs while on an unending loop of a repeat of the day. Her goal is slightly different. The chemistry between them? Unspeakably hot.
This was another fantastic addition to what's become an incredibly addictive series. The banter, the chemistry, the twists and turns, all of it made for one page turner of a read. I loved seeing Halo slowly thaw for the sassy harpynymph. I loved seeing Ophelia slowly come into her own and become the fierce warrior that she was always meant to be. And the chemistry between them was just everything. I can't wait for more in this world!
ARC courtesy of publisher in exchange for an honest review
Find me on:
February 2, 2022
ZERO STARS
FINISH THE LOTU SERIES
FINISH THE LOTU SERIES
FINISH THE LOTU SERIES
FINISH THE LOTU SERIES
Why should I care about this series and these new characters?
What about the unfinished plots from the LOTU series?
Stop starting new series (Forest of Good and Evil, Gods of War, Jane Ladling, This one!), most of which KEEP getting dropped and FINISH THE LOTU SERIES!
What about the morning star?
What about the Kings of the Underworld?
What about Pandora, Axel, the twins, Neeka, etc...you know, characters fans know and love and want stories about?
FINISH THE LOTU SERIES
FINISH THE LOTU SERIES
FINISH THE LOTU SERIES
FINISH THE LOTU SERIES
FINISH THE LOTU SERIES
FINISH THE LOTU SERIES
FINISH THE LOTU SERIES
FINISH THE LOTU SERIES
Why should I care about this series and these new characters?
What about the unfinished plots from the LOTU series?
Stop starting new series (Forest of Good and Evil, Gods of War, Jane Ladling, This one!), most of which KEEP getting dropped and FINISH THE LOTU SERIES!
What about the morning star?
What about the Kings of the Underworld?
What about Pandora, Axel, the twins, Neeka, etc...you know, characters fans know and love and want stories about?
FINISH THE LOTU SERIES
FINISH THE LOTU SERIES
FINISH THE LOTU SERIES
FINISH THE LOTU SERIES
Read
May 1, 2022Eski neşesi yok bence. Salt cinsellik ve yüzeysellik doluydu. Yazmak için yazılmış hissi vardı.Seri nerden nereye gdi hayret bir şey 😅 Güncel olmak adına okumuştum 🤷🏻♀️
March 16, 2022
Another book in the series where I was confused most of the time. However, again, I enjoyed myself the whole way through. So I didn't mind.
Another cold warrior who gets smacked upside the head by his fated mate. They are stuck in a Ground Hog Day situation together and forced to be pitted against one another as Halo tried to complete his tasks for his fellow Astra.
It was sexy and fast paced and I flew right through it.
Even if I continue to be confused by this universe..
4 Stars
3 on the spice scale
Another cold warrior who gets smacked upside the head by his fated mate. They are stuck in a Ground Hog Day situation together and forced to be pitted against one another as Halo tried to complete his tasks for his fellow Astra.
It was sexy and fast paced and I flew right through it.
Even if I continue to be confused by this universe..
4 Stars
3 on the spice scale
January 16, 2022
"The Immortal" - the second installment in Gena Showalter's Rise of the Warlords series - takes the glorious foundation that "The Warlord" laid and expounds upon it in a way that is simultaneously ingenious, thrilling, and at times straight-up diabolical. This Groundhog Day on steroids situation is clever and so much fun, and Gena's trademark humor, brilliance, amazing world-building, and heart really shine through.
The chemistry between our two mains - Halo and Ophelia - is positively white hot, bordering on nuclear. Insta-lust has always been an exploitable weakness of mine, and its only made all the better when the people involved struggle to resist the pull. That trademark struggle only made the sexual tension between Halo & Ophelia all the more exquisite. Their passion has the capacity to set fire to the pages at times, even when they're in the middle of seemingly formal negotiations (omg, that scene was everything). Just that over-layer of roiling need that threatens to boil over at any second? Perfection.
The humor and banter in this book is also absolutely fantastic (which comes as no surprise to me because I've always vibed with Gena's sense of humor), and I love all of the engagements and teasing between the different characters. The tension, high-stakes, conflict, and drama also deliver in all the ways that matter. Erebus is one conniving villain. He is slimy and devious and clever - a very worthy opponent of the Astra Planeta. But what I absolutely LOVE about these books is how Gena takes these seemingly impenetrable warlords, throws them into impossible situations, and the only way out is for them is through some much needed personal growth, along with surrendering their trust to the women they love.... viewing them and treating them as the equals (and dare I say, superiors) that they are.
What can I say? That goodness makes me weak.
As is typical with a Gena Showalter book, too, there's plenty of amazing lines of dialogue, bits of banter, and memorable one-liners. The erotic elements are also nothing short of glorious. But the way she balances it all out with the feels... goddamn. This book really squeezes the ever living hell out of one's heart at times. Just the vulnerabilities we see with Halo and Ophelia especially... oof. So good.
This book is a more than worthy follow-up to its predecessor. It's funny, fast-paced, unpredictable, and absolutely delicious. "The Immortal" delivers and I can't wait for the next book in this series!
The chemistry between our two mains - Halo and Ophelia - is positively white hot, bordering on nuclear. Insta-lust has always been an exploitable weakness of mine, and its only made all the better when the people involved struggle to resist the pull. That trademark struggle only made the sexual tension between Halo & Ophelia all the more exquisite. Their passion has the capacity to set fire to the pages at times, even when they're in the middle of seemingly formal negotiations (omg, that scene was everything). Just that over-layer of roiling need that threatens to boil over at any second? Perfection.
The humor and banter in this book is also absolutely fantastic (which comes as no surprise to me because I've always vibed with Gena's sense of humor), and I love all of the engagements and teasing between the different characters. The tension, high-stakes, conflict, and drama also deliver in all the ways that matter. Erebus is one conniving villain. He is slimy and devious and clever - a very worthy opponent of the Astra Planeta. But what I absolutely LOVE about these books is how Gena takes these seemingly impenetrable warlords, throws them into impossible situations, and the only way out is for them is through some much needed personal growth, along with surrendering their trust to the women they love.... viewing them and treating them as the equals (and dare I say, superiors) that they are.
What can I say? That goodness makes me weak.
As is typical with a Gena Showalter book, too, there's plenty of amazing lines of dialogue, bits of banter, and memorable one-liners. The erotic elements are also nothing short of glorious. But the way she balances it all out with the feels... goddamn. This book really squeezes the ever living hell out of one's heart at times. Just the vulnerabilities we see with Halo and Ophelia especially... oof. So good.
This book is a more than worthy follow-up to its predecessor. It's funny, fast-paced, unpredictable, and absolutely delicious. "The Immortal" delivers and I can't wait for the next book in this series!
February 3, 2022
Read this review on Fresh Fiction
It’s time for readers to get excited again because Gena Showalter has returned to the Rise of the Warlords series!
With this installment, she pairs up an unlikely couple together. Halo is a cold and merciless assassin whereas Ophelia is a fierce and spunky harpy warrior. However, the two make up a wonderful couple as they repeat the same fierce battle again and again. Normally, I’m not a fan of stories that involve infinite loops. With these types of stories, it can feel repetitive or boring. However, Showalter does a good job of creating new differences that keep it exciting.
My favorite aspect of this story was the characters though. It’s been a long time since I’ve fallen in love with a hero and heroine like this. Despite their differences, I thought that both were very interesting characters. So as they started to fall in love, it created a lot of wonderful tension and chemistry.
I had a blast reading this book and I have no question that readers will enjoy this action-packed book. Showalter is an amazing storyteller and I can’t wait to see what she has up her sleeve next!
It’s time for readers to get excited again because Gena Showalter has returned to the Rise of the Warlords series!
With this installment, she pairs up an unlikely couple together. Halo is a cold and merciless assassin whereas Ophelia is a fierce and spunky harpy warrior. However, the two make up a wonderful couple as they repeat the same fierce battle again and again. Normally, I’m not a fan of stories that involve infinite loops. With these types of stories, it can feel repetitive or boring. However, Showalter does a good job of creating new differences that keep it exciting.
My favorite aspect of this story was the characters though. It’s been a long time since I’ve fallen in love with a hero and heroine like this. Despite their differences, I thought that both were very interesting characters. So as they started to fall in love, it created a lot of wonderful tension and chemistry.
I had a blast reading this book and I have no question that readers will enjoy this action-packed book. Showalter is an amazing storyteller and I can’t wait to see what she has up her sleeve next!
June 22, 2022
I LOVE this author but this bold was one of the worst. Paranormal mates romance should NEVER involve the male mate screwing another woman. I don’t care if he hasn’t met his mate yet. We don’t want to read that shite. It ruined it. I can’t read anymore. The romance that could’ve been is ruined. When he’s finally with his mate, all I we’ll be thinking is….hmmm he just had his bone in that amazon woman a few days ago. Does he still smell like her. Is he thrusting the same. It RUINED it and the worst part is that it wasn’t necessary. That part didn’t need to be in the book. But it was and destroyed it and my faith in this author. Mate books should never show sex with someone else. It may mention their past indiscretions but NEVERRRR make us have to read through one. Screw this I’m so mad and feel so sick after reading that scene.
I mean he ran into his mate with that others woman’s juices still on his privates. Not to mention that “meat” is hard for her, against her only minutes after being in the other woman. DISGUSTING! I can’t think of anything worse in a paranormal romance.
I mean he ran into his mate with that others woman’s juices still on his privates. Not to mention that “meat” is hard for her, against her only minutes after being in the other woman. DISGUSTING! I can’t think of anything worse in a paranormal romance.
February 23, 2022
It pains my heart to rate a book from Gena so low, but how I disliked this. The only thing I can salvage from it was Halo, he was fierce, a protector and loyal to the core. Then you get Ophelia, a love interest I care nothing about; she was selfish, childish and downright annoying, why would a person like that be matched to an Astra? The motivation behind all of her actions was like reading the diary of a 13 year old, and let's not even talk about the manipulation with her body, because brains were lacking 100%. I'm also doing this review at 74% of the book, which is a big no-no, but I seriously doubt anything in the last pages will change my mind. I really hope the next book is better, because if it's something like this I am not continuing the series.
March 7, 2022
Unfortunately, I really did not like this book, given how amazing Book 1 was.
Firstly, I felt that the story dragged on, with too many "explanations", but no major changes in the plot and no character development.
Secondly, and most of all, the herione was too narcistic, selfish and immature for an Astra - perhaps my judgement is too harsh, but I tend to focus more on the herione of any story, and this one did not measure up.
Having said that, I hope that the next book will be a lot better.
Firstly, I felt that the story dragged on, with too many "explanations", but no major changes in the plot and no character development.
Secondly, and most of all, the herione was too narcistic, selfish and immature for an Astra - perhaps my judgement is too harsh, but I tend to focus more on the herione of any story, and this one did not measure up.
Having said that, I hope that the next book will be a lot better.
January 29, 2022
After reading The Warlord, I had been waiting in all sorts of agonies for the release of The Immortal and man oh man was it worth it!
Halo, yummy yummy, Halo was so perfect. And he meets his match in Ophelia, a young harpy trying to put her stamp on Harpydom. My God, this book was a ride! It was AMAZING! Getting to know these characters in more detail was so refreshing. Entering Gena's world is always a little magical. I just want to stay there.
Plot:
Now that Roc Phaethon has completed the first mission, Halo knows that it won't be long before it is his turn. So when the god Chaos appears to tell him that his task is to complete the twelve tasks of Hercules, he is overjoyed. Kill a few monsters? Easy!
What he doesn't realise is that he would also meet his Gravita and endure all sorts of complications. His mission is not nearly as it seems.
Ophelia simply wants to kill someone- just one! Imagine her excitement when she realises that she can help the Astra with his mission and maybe even steal a kill.
As the two work together to complete the missions, Erebus throws various obstacles in their way. Can the two outmanoeuvre Erebus and win the second challenge to ascend?
My thoughts:
If you couldn't tell from the beginning of this review, I LOVED THIS BOOK. The angst, the sexual tension, the banter was simply TO DIE FOR. Meeting previously loved characters again, Roc and Taliyah, felt a little like coming home. I just want to read more and more of this world. I need to know more!
Also, I have never been so turned on by the “chin pinch”. This book honestly takes things that one step further.
Gena Showalter is a QUEEN in this genre. No one does it better. Go grab your copy, you won't regret it.
Thank you Gena and Naomi for providing me with an ARC in return for my honest review.
Halo, yummy yummy, Halo was so perfect. And he meets his match in Ophelia, a young harpy trying to put her stamp on Harpydom. My God, this book was a ride! It was AMAZING! Getting to know these characters in more detail was so refreshing. Entering Gena's world is always a little magical. I just want to stay there.
Plot:
Now that Roc Phaethon has completed the first mission, Halo knows that it won't be long before it is his turn. So when the god Chaos appears to tell him that his task is to complete the twelve tasks of Hercules, he is overjoyed. Kill a few monsters? Easy!
What he doesn't realise is that he would also meet his Gravita and endure all sorts of complications. His mission is not nearly as it seems.
Ophelia simply wants to kill someone- just one! Imagine her excitement when she realises that she can help the Astra with his mission and maybe even steal a kill.
As the two work together to complete the missions, Erebus throws various obstacles in their way. Can the two outmanoeuvre Erebus and win the second challenge to ascend?
My thoughts:
If you couldn't tell from the beginning of this review, I LOVED THIS BOOK. The angst, the sexual tension, the banter was simply TO DIE FOR. Meeting previously loved characters again, Roc and Taliyah, felt a little like coming home. I just want to read more and more of this world. I need to know more!
Also, I have never been so turned on by the “chin pinch”. This book honestly takes things that one step further.
Gena Showalter is a QUEEN in this genre. No one does it better. Go grab your copy, you won't regret it.
Thank you Gena and Naomi for providing me with an ARC in return for my honest review.
February 1, 2022
✦Review: THE IMMORTAL: A Novel by Gena Showalter https://wp.me/p3d0RZ-bVf
Publication Date: February 1, 2022
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Reviewed by: Reading in Pajamas/ Cori
Rated 5 Stars
I started the year off with this book and it did not disappoint. I loved Halo and Ophelia together. A harpy was just what Halo needed to shake up his life. If I could be anything I think I would be one of Gena Showalter’s harpies. IMMORTAL kept me up all night flipping the pages. Lots of angst, humor, sexy times, danger and a great love story. I highly recommend this series! It is a spin-off from the Lords of the Underworld Series but it can be read as a stand alone series. I love the LOTU series and highly recommend it if you haven’t read it though. It’s one I read over and over and it never gets old. Gena Showalter is one of my favorites.
*Review copy provided by Harlequin in exchange for an honest review.
~*~*~*~
KINDLE https://amzn.to/3dtzD1L
Publication Date: February 1, 2022
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Reviewed by: Reading in Pajamas/ Cori
Rated 5 Stars
I started the year off with this book and it did not disappoint. I loved Halo and Ophelia together. A harpy was just what Halo needed to shake up his life. If I could be anything I think I would be one of Gena Showalter’s harpies. IMMORTAL kept me up all night flipping the pages. Lots of angst, humor, sexy times, danger and a great love story. I highly recommend this series! It is a spin-off from the Lords of the Underworld Series but it can be read as a stand alone series. I love the LOTU series and highly recommend it if you haven’t read it though. It’s one I read over and over and it never gets old. Gena Showalter is one of my favorites.
*Review copy provided by Harlequin in exchange for an honest review.
~*~*~*~
KINDLE https://amzn.to/3dtzD1L
December 22, 2021
This review of the ARC by Edelweiss+
I love this new series. Being a fan of Kresley Cole's IAD, I love when the heroine is spunky and doesn't back down from a fight or isn't afraid to start her own. The angst between Halo and Ophelia is excellent, and it creates an atmosphere that is both comical and heartbreaking at the same time. I can't wait to see how the other warlords come out trying to find their mates. I am eagerly awaiting the next book in the series!
I love this new series. Being a fan of Kresley Cole's IAD, I love when the heroine is spunky and doesn't back down from a fight or isn't afraid to start her own. The angst between Halo and Ophelia is excellent, and it creates an atmosphere that is both comical and heartbreaking at the same time. I can't wait to see how the other warlords come out trying to find their mates. I am eagerly awaiting the next book in the series!
October 22, 2021
ARC provided by Edelweiss+
So much fun! Ophelia is a Harpy Nymph who is know as a flunk out but really she is so much fun. Sassy, smart, energetic and confident. Halo is the next Astra to compete and must complete the 12 labors of Hercules. He never lets anyone or anything get in his way until he meets Lady O. He has always been cold but now he is thawing for her.
This book is a little gruesome and bloody as Halo is forced to fight Ophelia to the death every day only for the day to repeat after one of them dies. This book is also extra spicy 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶. I loved all of it.
So much fun! Ophelia is a Harpy Nymph who is know as a flunk out but really she is so much fun. Sassy, smart, energetic and confident. Halo is the next Astra to compete and must complete the 12 labors of Hercules. He never lets anyone or anything get in his way until he meets Lady O. He has always been cold but now he is thawing for her.
This book is a little gruesome and bloody as Halo is forced to fight Ophelia to the death every day only for the day to repeat after one of them dies. This book is also extra spicy 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶. I loved all of it.
March 6, 2022
Dnf - 20%
I was really curious after reading the blurb but yeah… it’s a no from me.
I was really curious after reading the blurb but yeah… it’s a no from me.
April 24, 2022
Review originally posted at Rantings of a Reading Addict
I love Gena Showalter's harpies. They are deadly and kick ass. For us to see Ophelia the Flunk Out was a lot of fun. She gets caught up in a challenge that the assassin Halo must complete where he has to battle 12 of the most deadly monsters alive. Halo accepts the task, but then for some reason find that both him and Ophelia are stuck in a time loop. Neither understands why Ophelia is included in this Groundhog Day. But then Erebus reveals bit by bit why she is included.
Ophelia keeps the secret she learns from Erebus in hopes of saving Halo. But her instincts make it hard to control her situation. I was really hoping that Ophelia would just trust in Halo and find an answer together. But that is not the harpy way. She wants to make her first kill and increase her harpy status, plus save Halo.
I really loved Halo. He starts out as his assassin self but he comes out of his shell for Ophelia, so for me, when he finds out how she has been betraying him I was crushed at the change in him. Trying to protect himself from her.
Erebus frustrated the crap out of me. He makes a good sneaky villain, despite how much I wanted to scream at him. I guess that's the point of a villain, right?
This series is a lot of fun. Harpies take their war skills so seriously and their attitudes always make me laugh. To pair one with an Astra assassin makes for an entertaining romance build. Add in the serious dangers and challenges makes for a perfect mix for me. I can't wait for the next one!
I love Gena Showalter's harpies. They are deadly and kick ass. For us to see Ophelia the Flunk Out was a lot of fun. She gets caught up in a challenge that the assassin Halo must complete where he has to battle 12 of the most deadly monsters alive. Halo accepts the task, but then for some reason find that both him and Ophelia are stuck in a time loop. Neither understands why Ophelia is included in this Groundhog Day. But then Erebus reveals bit by bit why she is included.
Ophelia keeps the secret she learns from Erebus in hopes of saving Halo. But her instincts make it hard to control her situation. I was really hoping that Ophelia would just trust in Halo and find an answer together. But that is not the harpy way. She wants to make her first kill and increase her harpy status, plus save Halo.
I really loved Halo. He starts out as his assassin self but he comes out of his shell for Ophelia, so for me, when he finds out how she has been betraying him I was crushed at the change in him. Trying to protect himself from her.
Erebus frustrated the crap out of me. He makes a good sneaky villain, despite how much I wanted to scream at him. I guess that's the point of a villain, right?
This series is a lot of fun. Harpies take their war skills so seriously and their attitudes always make me laugh. To pair one with an Astra assassin makes for an entertaining romance build. Add in the serious dangers and challenges makes for a perfect mix for me. I can't wait for the next one!
January 18, 2022
YESSSSS. It's Halo and Ophelia's turn to do their thing and HARPIES, amirite?!?! Those ladies are WILD! They get an idea in their head and they just go all out in making that idea a reality, don't they?
So wild, slightly bloodthirsty Ophelia doesn't seem like she'd be a solid match to the emotionless Halo, does she? Guess what? Her passion for life (and inability to do anything Halo expects) kind of works for the big guy. And by "kind of" I mean it REALLY works for him. She fights him on everything just on principle and he's not nearly as bothered by this as he probably should be. And the more time he spends around her, the more he thaws to her.
As for Ophelia, she's offered a chance to become more than the flunk out with some lingering family issues and she takes it. Even though she knows it's not necessarily the best decision to make, she makes it with the wellbeing of her people (and the Astra Planeta, since they're allies now) in mind. She's also firmly sworn off men and absolutely refuses to fall for Halo and his intense, growly ways. Absolutely. No questions asked. Refuses. You heard it here first.
As you might imagine, reliving the same day over and over and having only each other to rely on sparks more than a couple of steamy encounters. But they're both stubborn and have a tiny bit of baggage to work through. And that's without having to deal with mythical monsters and herculean tasks and tricksy gods who are not at all nice and all that.
A little danger, more than a little bloodshed, a few deaths on the side, some steam, sexy times, a lot of verbal foreplay, and a whole lot hanging in the balance if Halo fails. Good stuff!
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
So wild, slightly bloodthirsty Ophelia doesn't seem like she'd be a solid match to the emotionless Halo, does she? Guess what? Her passion for life (and inability to do anything Halo expects) kind of works for the big guy. And by "kind of" I mean it REALLY works for him. She fights him on everything just on principle and he's not nearly as bothered by this as he probably should be. And the more time he spends around her, the more he thaws to her.
As for Ophelia, she's offered a chance to become more than the flunk out with some lingering family issues and she takes it. Even though she knows it's not necessarily the best decision to make, she makes it with the wellbeing of her people (and the Astra Planeta, since they're allies now) in mind. She's also firmly sworn off men and absolutely refuses to fall for Halo and his intense, growly ways. Absolutely. No questions asked. Refuses. You heard it here first.
As you might imagine, reliving the same day over and over and having only each other to rely on sparks more than a couple of steamy encounters. But they're both stubborn and have a tiny bit of baggage to work through. And that's without having to deal with mythical monsters and herculean tasks and tricksy gods who are not at all nice and all that.
A little danger, more than a little bloodshed, a few deaths on the side, some steam, sexy times, a lot of verbal foreplay, and a whole lot hanging in the balance if Halo fails. Good stuff!
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
January 14, 2023
Original review
The Immortal is the second book in the Rise of the Warlords series and tells the story of Ophelia and Halo. Although this is the second book in the series, it can be read as a standalone.
The Immortal is the second book in the Rise of the Warlords series and tells the story of Ophelia and Halo. Although this is the second book in the series, it can be read as a standalone.
After finishing The Warlord, I had to start in The Immortal, the second book in the Rise of the Warlords series. I really enjoyed the first book in the series, and I was really interested in the next couple. Ophelia and Halo are both such lovable characters, I really enjoyed reading in their perspectives and I was excited for their happy ending! Like the first book, I read a combination of the ebook and audiobook,
The Immortal is about Ophelia and Halo. Ophelia was such a fun character, she was really badass but also really funny and sassy. She’s a mix of a harpy and a nymph. Halo is an Astra, and I think he’s one of the most badass Astra. I really loved this couple, they were so perfect for them and I was waiting for the stardust moment. LOVED IT!
The Immortal was such a good book and I think it’s even better than the first book! I really loved Ophelia and Halo, I couldn’t get enough of them and I was so happy for them. I really enjoyed reading and listening to this book, and I’m excited to pick up the next book in the Rise of the Warlords series, The Phantom. I cannot wait to see what Gena Showalter came up with next!
January 17, 2022
“First time dealing with Harpies? Helpful Hint: Expect the Unexpected.”
Ophelia, the harpy/nymph combo, both lover and fighter is at war with herself as well as with the Astra. None more so than Halo. An emotionless hardened assassin since he was a child, he finds emotions and with it the natural unpredictability that follows, surging to the surface. Anyone who’s ever felt the slightest niggling of insecurity about whether they should trust their instincts about their significant other will find something relatable in Ophelia. But the twists continue in this book, taking a fantastical twist that keep escalating into the full fantasy realm. Though my true love will always be paranormal romance, this quasi-paranormal quasi-fantasy is another cant miss for Gena!
Ophelia, the harpy/nymph combo, both lover and fighter is at war with herself as well as with the Astra. None more so than Halo. An emotionless hardened assassin since he was a child, he finds emotions and with it the natural unpredictability that follows, surging to the surface. Anyone who’s ever felt the slightest niggling of insecurity about whether they should trust their instincts about their significant other will find something relatable in Ophelia. But the twists continue in this book, taking a fantastical twist that keep escalating into the full fantasy realm. Though my true love will always be paranormal romance, this quasi-paranormal quasi-fantasy is another cant miss for Gena!
February 6, 2022
To quote one of my friends who I was talking to about this book, "This didn't make sense and it wasn't my jam!"
But I do want to mention that I haven't read the first book in this series, so I'm not sure if it didn't work for me because of that, or because of things like the writing style and this particular story. At the end of the day, it did keep me engaged enough to keep reading because I wanted to see how everything would play out, so that's something!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book provided to me through the Bonkers Romance Podcast via Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you to the author, publisher, and especially the podcast for giving me the opportunity to read this book!
But I do want to mention that I haven't read the first book in this series, so I'm not sure if it didn't work for me because of that, or because of things like the writing style and this particular story. At the end of the day, it did keep me engaged enough to keep reading because I wanted to see how everything would play out, so that's something!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book provided to me through the Bonkers Romance Podcast via Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you to the author, publisher, and especially the podcast for giving me the opportunity to read this book!
November 2, 2021
I received a copy of this book directly from the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I wanted to like this book - I usually enjoy Gena Showalter's novels, but this one just wasn't for me. Part of the problem is that it isn't a stand-alone, not really. There's a lot of lore and world-building involved, and it's all sort of dumped on the reader very quickly.
To make matters worse, I tend to prefer character-driven stories over plot-driven stories, and whatever this was, it definitely wasn't character-driven. After several chapters, I still had no idea what the driving force was behind the characters, other than superficial reasons. One wanted to be a general. The other wanted to complete a set of tasks. Why were these important to them? What defined who they were? Don't get me wrong, the plot was certainly interesting in concept, but plot alone doesn't carry a book.
On the technical side of things… well I think this was the biggest issue for me. There was a lot of "explaining" going on, and not a lot of "describing". It felt like the author was trying hard to set up the world-building quickly, so a lot of back-story for the characters and the world was being handed out, without letting it just organically come into play. I grew bored quickly because the story wasn't sucking me in. I didn't empathize with the characters, and a lot was going on lore-wise that just made it feel confusing and chaotic.
Overall, I didn't like the book. I'm sure if I'd read the first book in the series before this, it might have been easier to follow and get pulled into the story, but as a standalone… I'm going to pass on this one.
I wanted to like this book - I usually enjoy Gena Showalter's novels, but this one just wasn't for me. Part of the problem is that it isn't a stand-alone, not really. There's a lot of lore and world-building involved, and it's all sort of dumped on the reader very quickly.
To make matters worse, I tend to prefer character-driven stories over plot-driven stories, and whatever this was, it definitely wasn't character-driven. After several chapters, I still had no idea what the driving force was behind the characters, other than superficial reasons. One wanted to be a general. The other wanted to complete a set of tasks. Why were these important to them? What defined who they were? Don't get me wrong, the plot was certainly interesting in concept, but plot alone doesn't carry a book.
On the technical side of things… well I think this was the biggest issue for me. There was a lot of "explaining" going on, and not a lot of "describing". It felt like the author was trying hard to set up the world-building quickly, so a lot of back-story for the characters and the world was being handed out, without letting it just organically come into play. I grew bored quickly because the story wasn't sucking me in. I didn't empathize with the characters, and a lot was going on lore-wise that just made it feel confusing and chaotic.
Overall, I didn't like the book. I'm sure if I'd read the first book in the series before this, it might have been easier to follow and get pulled into the story, but as a standalone… I'm going to pass on this one.
February 9, 2022
Steamy and seductive addition to the Rise of the Warlords series that was enjoyable, but just not as good as The Warlord (Rise of the Warlords, book 1).
Trapped in a twisted time loop and all but isolated from everyone, Halo and Ophelia's story lacks the richness of a diverse cast of characters that book one offered.
And even though The Immortal focuses solely on Halo and Ophelia, I didn't feel like an emotional connection was achieved. Was it steamy? Yes, but I wish there was more relationship development as well as character backstory.
Halo seemed like he learned nothing from his Commander's trial and Ophelia's actions came off selfish and compulsive. I don't feel like I understood either of them well enough to understand their motivations as individuals or as a couple.
The outcome seemed oddly confusing—how would that have been unpredictable?—and while it wasn't my favorite of the two novels so far, I'm still looking forward to continuing the series.
Trapped in a twisted time loop and all but isolated from everyone, Halo and Ophelia's story lacks the richness of a diverse cast of characters that book one offered.
And even though The Immortal focuses solely on Halo and Ophelia, I didn't feel like an emotional connection was achieved. Was it steamy? Yes, but I wish there was more relationship development as well as character backstory.
Halo seemed like he learned nothing from his Commander's trial and Ophelia's actions came off selfish and compulsive. I don't feel like I understood either of them well enough to understand their motivations as individuals or as a couple.
The outcome seemed oddly confusing—how would that have been unpredictable?—and while it wasn't my favorite of the two novels so far, I'm still looking forward to continuing the series.
September 19, 2022
Never ending
I feel that I'm unable to remain objective with this review. I'm sure there's a really amazing story buried beneath the forced banter and constant childish behavior of the heroine Ophelia. It felt like reading the diary of a pre-teen with her first crush.
Halo is well written and learning about the other Astra is intriguing. But if the other harpies are as grating as Ophelia...I'll pass.
This book actually irritated me. But I wanted to give it and the series a chance, so I finished it. I'll try another and hopefully it's not as annoying.
I feel that I'm unable to remain objective with this review. I'm sure there's a really amazing story buried beneath the forced banter and constant childish behavior of the heroine Ophelia. It felt like reading the diary of a pre-teen with her first crush.
Halo is well written and learning about the other Astra is intriguing. But if the other harpies are as grating as Ophelia...I'll pass.
This book actually irritated me. But I wanted to give it and the series a chance, so I finished it. I'll try another and hopefully it's not as annoying.
October 10, 2025
I'm really enjoying this Warlords series! 4-4.5 stars, the only thing that kept it from being a full 5 stars is how often I was yelling at the book, just tell each other the truth already! - particularly at Ophelia - Though I understand the whole lying because we don't trust each other scenario, I personally have only so much patience with the deliberation over telling the truth, YMMV. I loved Halo and Ophelia as characters and they work so well as a couple. Loved it!
February 16, 2024
Loved reading this book again, I love these two, and I've almost finished my reread and catch up!
*First Read November 3rd, 2021*
Loved these two and their story, it was a really great read! Can't wait to continue the series!
*First Read November 3rd, 2021*
Loved these two and their story, it was a really great read! Can't wait to continue the series!
February 4, 2022
I want to preface this review with I really loved book 1. This book was boring, the main characters are annoying, I honestly wasn’t feeling them. The lack of communication just went on way too long for my liking and the narrator of the audio book is horrible.
March 5, 2022
Every single book this author writes just sucks you into it. The banter, the tension, the backstory. Just so thoroughly perfect.
After The Warlord, I’ve been waiting for my next fix on this new series. But when this book finally dropped, I kept putting it off. But I finally read it and it was everything I hoped for.
This book is about Ophelia and Halo.
Ophelia is a harpie/nymph- harpymph as they call it. She is both love and fight. Passion and violence. And both sides of her are constantly at war with each other but Ophelia only just wants to achieve greatness and leave her mark in the Harpy Realm. But our girl has a magnet for trouble, and she definitely indulges in the act of making bad decisions.
Halo on the other hand is our tragic hero. He is one the Warlords and he is as cold and ruthless. He was trained to be an assassin since he was very young. He was taught to shut his emotions and avoid feelings. And the things he did made our hero a little difficult to deal with.
So, imagine a pairing with these two very strong and capable characters? Pure fireworks. Ophelia is exactly what Halo needs. Someone so used to get what he wants suddenly is confronted by a creature made of stubbornness and trouble.
Then Halo’s task throws both into a loop with challenges and death. this is where everything gets more interesting. With Halo being hell bent in fulfilling it alone and Ophelia being part of it unintentionally.
So, it’s clear that I loved this book and that I highly recommend it to any lover of Paranormal romance out there.
You get angst, laughter, sad moments, and a lot of spice.
After The Warlord, I’ve been waiting for my next fix on this new series. But when this book finally dropped, I kept putting it off. But I finally read it and it was everything I hoped for.
This book is about Ophelia and Halo.
Ophelia is a harpie/nymph- harpymph as they call it. She is both love and fight. Passion and violence. And both sides of her are constantly at war with each other but Ophelia only just wants to achieve greatness and leave her mark in the Harpy Realm. But our girl has a magnet for trouble, and she definitely indulges in the act of making bad decisions.
“If ever someone hands out an award for screwed-up priorities, bad taste in guys, or most wrong turns, you deserve first, second, and third prize, Ophelia.”
Halo on the other hand is our tragic hero. He is one the Warlords and he is as cold and ruthless. He was trained to be an assassin since he was very young. He was taught to shut his emotions and avoid feelings. And the things he did made our hero a little difficult to deal with.
He glowered at her. “Why can’t you enjoy staying safe?”
“Because I’m a hardcore warrior with titanium ovaries.”
So, imagine a pairing with these two very strong and capable characters? Pure fireworks. Ophelia is exactly what Halo needs. Someone so used to get what he wants suddenly is confronted by a creature made of stubbornness and trouble.
“Every teacher, trainer, and superior has bemoaned your stubbornness.”
“I’m passionate about my belief that I’m right.”
Then Halo’s task throws both into a loop with challenges and death. this is where everything gets more interesting. With Halo being hell bent in fulfilling it alone and Ophelia being part of it unintentionally.
So, it’s clear that I loved this book and that I highly recommend it to any lover of Paranormal romance out there.
You get angst, laughter, sad moments, and a lot of spice.
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