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The Rising Wave #2
The Threadbare Queen
A conqueror's victory is never assured . . .
The Rising Wave may have taken control of Kassia, but hot on the heels of their victory, Luc receives word from one of his spies that the Jatan, emboldened by the Kassian army's withdrawal, have crossed the border. More worryingly, they haven't just moved into northern Kassia, but also east to Luc's home region of Cervantes, and with all the Cervantes warriors with Luc in Kassia's capital, Fernwell, cementing their hold on power, his home is vulnerable and defenceless. Luc has no choice but to leave securing Fernwell to Ava, gather forces, and head north, to try to push the Jatan back to their side of the mountains.
A queen's safety is never a given . . .
Finally, after months of trying, a minion of the Speaker of Grimwalt's court manages to snatch Ava from under the noses of her friends and allies, off the streets of Fernwell and onto the back roads to Grimwalt. Ava has to struggle against an insidious assault on her vitality and magic, fighting a power that isn't just strong, but malevolent.
Nothing is set in stone . . .
As Ava tries to escape her captors and Luc races to defend his homeland, they draw closer and closer to each other, until finally their paths cross, as they always seem to do. As they once again face their enemies together, they will have to use all their strength to salvage the victory they've worked so hard to accomplish.
The Threadbare Queen is the second book in the Rising Wave series. The series begins with The Rising Wave, a prequel novella, and continues with The Turncoat King.
The Rising Wave may have taken control of Kassia, but hot on the heels of their victory, Luc receives word from one of his spies that the Jatan, emboldened by the Kassian army's withdrawal, have crossed the border. More worryingly, they haven't just moved into northern Kassia, but also east to Luc's home region of Cervantes, and with all the Cervantes warriors with Luc in Kassia's capital, Fernwell, cementing their hold on power, his home is vulnerable and defenceless. Luc has no choice but to leave securing Fernwell to Ava, gather forces, and head north, to try to push the Jatan back to their side of the mountains.
A queen's safety is never a given . . .
Finally, after months of trying, a minion of the Speaker of Grimwalt's court manages to snatch Ava from under the noses of her friends and allies, off the streets of Fernwell and onto the back roads to Grimwalt. Ava has to struggle against an insidious assault on her vitality and magic, fighting a power that isn't just strong, but malevolent.
Nothing is set in stone . . .
As Ava tries to escape her captors and Luc races to defend his homeland, they draw closer and closer to each other, until finally their paths cross, as they always seem to do. As they once again face their enemies together, they will have to use all their strength to salvage the victory they've worked so hard to accomplish.
The Threadbare Queen is the second book in the Rising Wave series. The series begins with The Rising Wave, a prequel novella, and continues with The Turncoat King.
360 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 21, 2021
135 people are currently reading
315 people want to read
About the author
Michelle Diener
59 books1,921 followersMichelle Diener is a bestselling, award-winning author of historical fiction, science fiction and fantasy. Having worked in publishing and IT, she's now very happy crafting new worlds and interesting characters.
Michelle was born in London and currently lives in Australia with her husband and two children.
When she's not writing, or driving her kids from activity to activity, you can find her online at Twitter and Facebook.
Michelle was born in London and currently lives in Australia with her husband and two children.
When she's not writing, or driving her kids from activity to activity, you can find her online at Twitter and Facebook.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
December 19, 2022
Must read for fans of fantasy-romance - so good!!!!
Reread 2022 - still very much what I like when it comes to this genre. I could honestly read fantasy romance all year long.
Devoured the continuous story about Ava and Luc in one day, and I'm still very much in love with this couple. Can't wait to read more.
Reread 2022 - still very much what I like when it comes to this genre. I could honestly read fantasy romance all year long.
Devoured the continuous story about Ava and Luc in one day, and I'm still very much in love with this couple. Can't wait to read more.
January 6, 2022
Obsessed with this series Ava is *chefs kiss*, Luc and the rest of the characters are great but Ava is truly the star.
January 23, 2024
4.5/5.0
Things are really getting good! Now that I’ve accepted Ava and Luc’s deep and undying love at face value (there wasn’t any basis for it originally), I’m absolutely loving the fabulous story that unfolds!
Throughout most of this book the couple are apart but that only strengthens the intrigue and suspense. Luc must leave Ava to stop the incursion of Jatan forces who, with the Cervantes army away, are pillaging and claiming the land for their own. We follow him as he finds the perpetrators and fights to get his homeland back.
Ava is left in the Kassian capital trying to wrangle all the factions into some semblance of fair government now that she is the Queen. But, while in the city, she is kidnapped by the Grimwaltian villains who have been dogging her throughout this series.
While both plot lines are riveting, Ava’s takes it a step above with its nail-biting twists and turns. One can hardly put the story down while following both as they fight those who are (somewhat successfully) trying to destroy them, and find their way back to each other.
Things are really getting good! Now that I’ve accepted Ava and Luc’s deep and undying love at face value (there wasn’t any basis for it originally), I’m absolutely loving the fabulous story that unfolds!
Throughout most of this book the couple are apart but that only strengthens the intrigue and suspense. Luc must leave Ava to stop the incursion of Jatan forces who, with the Cervantes army away, are pillaging and claiming the land for their own. We follow him as he finds the perpetrators and fights to get his homeland back.
Ava is left in the Kassian capital trying to wrangle all the factions into some semblance of fair government now that she is the Queen. But, while in the city, she is kidnapped by the Grimwaltian villains who have been dogging her throughout this series.
While both plot lines are riveting, Ava’s takes it a step above with its nail-biting twists and turns. One can hardly put the story down while following both as they fight those who are (somewhat successfully) trying to destroy them, and find their way back to each other.
December 10, 2021
Rating: 3 stars
Easy. Everything felt way too easy in this book. Every problem was resolved too quickly with the help of Ava’s magic. There weren’t really any limits on what her magic could do. I think that took away a bit of the enjoyment for me. We didn’t get to see any of the characters struggle or grow.
The romance was also okay. I sometimes like it when characters fall in love pretty quickly, but again there was no tension or angst between Ava and Luc which made their relationship slightly boring.
It was still a pretty quick series to read. Ava’s magic was interesting and something I haven’t read before. But, like I said, I wished there more limits on what she could do.
Thank you to NetGalley and Author Collective for sending me an eARC!
Easy. Everything felt way too easy in this book. Every problem was resolved too quickly with the help of Ava’s magic. There weren’t really any limits on what her magic could do. I think that took away a bit of the enjoyment for me. We didn’t get to see any of the characters struggle or grow.
The romance was also okay. I sometimes like it when characters fall in love pretty quickly, but again there was no tension or angst between Ava and Luc which made their relationship slightly boring.
It was still a pretty quick series to read. Ava’s magic was interesting and something I haven’t read before. But, like I said, I wished there more limits on what she could do.
Thank you to NetGalley and Author Collective for sending me an eARC!
April 21, 2025
Reread 4/20/25:
I enjoyed this book just as much this time around. I agree with everything in my review below.
Review 4/26/24:
The continuing adventures of Ava and Luc in an exciting, romantasy series
In this story, Ava and Luc are separated almost the whole of the novel, as each goes off on separate adventures. Luc's home country is being invaded, and Ava is kidnapped, via magical means, by the evil leader of the government of her home country.
I absolutely adore Ava and Luc, and I could barely stand to stop reading for a minute while racing through this novel. I purchased the Kindle version and, via Amazon's Whispersync, I obtained the audiobook version as well. So every time I had to stop reading the Kindle version to do some task that required me to actually look at it, I could keep going with my journey through this fabulous story by listening to the audiobook. It's a terrific system when reading an "unputdownable" novel like this one (and basically every novel I've ever read by this utterly amazing author).
There is one major throughline of this series, the villainous head of Ava's home country, the Speaker, who keeps trying to kidnap her, has not received his just desserts by the end of this novel. That will probably not fully occur until the fourth book of this series.
Ava is not the FMC in the third book, however, she and Luc are both POV characters in the novel and play an important part. Given that the character who is the FMC of the third book, Massi, has been an important subcharacter in this novel and the previous one, I am looking forward to reading about her.
I enjoyed this book just as much this time around. I agree with everything in my review below.
Review 4/26/24:
The continuing adventures of Ava and Luc in an exciting, romantasy series
In this story, Ava and Luc are separated almost the whole of the novel, as each goes off on separate adventures. Luc's home country is being invaded, and Ava is kidnapped, via magical means, by the evil leader of the government of her home country.
I absolutely adore Ava and Luc, and I could barely stand to stop reading for a minute while racing through this novel. I purchased the Kindle version and, via Amazon's Whispersync, I obtained the audiobook version as well. So every time I had to stop reading the Kindle version to do some task that required me to actually look at it, I could keep going with my journey through this fabulous story by listening to the audiobook. It's a terrific system when reading an "unputdownable" novel like this one (and basically every novel I've ever read by this utterly amazing author).
There is one major throughline of this series, the villainous head of Ava's home country, the Speaker, who keeps trying to kidnap her, has not received his just desserts by the end of this novel. That will probably not fully occur until the fourth book of this series.
Ava is not the FMC in the third book, however, she and Luc are both POV characters in the novel and play an important part. Given that the character who is the FMC of the third book, Massi, has been an important subcharacter in this novel and the previous one, I am looking forward to reading about her.
May 9, 2025
Does everything in this plot happen for the convenience of it all, even when we’re injured, or captured, or dying? Well yes. But it’s just an easy read and I’m happy to be here.
February 14, 2023
I enjoyed The Threadbare Queen more than Book 1 in the series,
The Turncoat King
. Why? I mentioned in my review for TTK that Ava’s magic seems limitless, almost like a superpower. If she could think of it while sewing something, it sticks. That can get boring because where is the tension and challenge? But I think Diener may have been setting the reader up, because right away in this book, Ava is kidnapped and more importantly, her magic is eliminated completely.
Now, our main damsel must rescue herself without magic, relying only on her pluckiness and ingenuity. That is Diener’s wheelhouse storyline, and it was thoroughly enjoyable.
Why can’t our hero in the story, Luc, save Ava? Because he is off being awesome in his own right. Again, a bit of a setup by Diener I believe from Book 1 where Ava overshadows Luc. In this book, Luc gets his own screen time to be the badass Commander of The Rising Wave, which also was thoroughly enjoyable to read. Of course, Ava and Luc eventually connect, and their teamwork saves the day.
I’ve mentioned that Diener is a very formulaic author, but I just love her formula which is why she is one of my favorite authors. One more fanboy note, if you are like me and love both sci-fi and fantasy romance, check out Diener’s Sky Raiders series which is a great mashup of fantasy magic versus sci-fi futuristic tech.
Now, our main damsel must rescue herself without magic, relying only on her pluckiness and ingenuity. That is Diener’s wheelhouse storyline, and it was thoroughly enjoyable.
Why can’t our hero in the story, Luc, save Ava? Because he is off being awesome in his own right. Again, a bit of a setup by Diener I believe from Book 1 where Ava overshadows Luc. In this book, Luc gets his own screen time to be the badass Commander of The Rising Wave, which also was thoroughly enjoyable to read. Of course, Ava and Luc eventually connect, and their teamwork saves the day.
I’ve mentioned that Diener is a very formulaic author, but I just love her formula which is why she is one of my favorite authors. One more fanboy note, if you are like me and love both sci-fi and fantasy romance, check out Diener’s Sky Raiders series which is a great mashup of fantasy magic versus sci-fi futuristic tech.
December 21, 2021
The army known as The Rising Wave might have conquered Kassia and helped to crown it's rightful Queen Ava but they still have enemies. Luc is forced to go and confront the Jatan who having crossed their borders are pillaging and burning homesteads. It's hard enough to leave the Queen of his heart but little does Luc realise that Ava isn't safe and in fact is in grave danger from an insidious evil that wants her very life force !
I love this authors imagination and I'm so happy that she's turned to fantasy. This story was in many ways a tale of two halves because we journey with Luc and discover new enemies with greedy aspirations, yet for this reader Ava's journey was so much more interesting and oh so very poignant. I note that a couple of other reviewers were unhappy that for the majority of this book the couple are apart and obviously as a hopeless romantic I do want romance alongside the action. Romantic fantasy does need romance and I did feel a little nonplussed that there's very little of that here. However I unlike others actually thoroughly relished seeing Ava struggle because it showcased her tenacity and resilience . This might not have been my perfect read but it was thoroughly entertaining and takes Ava and Luc a step closer to the man who wants to destroy their oh so beautiful relationship and I personally cannot wait to find out what the author puts this couple through next !
This voluntary take is of an advanced copy and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
I love this authors imagination and I'm so happy that she's turned to fantasy. This story was in many ways a tale of two halves because we journey with Luc and discover new enemies with greedy aspirations, yet for this reader Ava's journey was so much more interesting and oh so very poignant. I note that a couple of other reviewers were unhappy that for the majority of this book the couple are apart and obviously as a hopeless romantic I do want romance alongside the action. Romantic fantasy does need romance and I did feel a little nonplussed that there's very little of that here. However I unlike others actually thoroughly relished seeing Ava struggle because it showcased her tenacity and resilience . This might not have been my perfect read but it was thoroughly entertaining and takes Ava and Luc a step closer to the man who wants to destroy their oh so beautiful relationship and I personally cannot wait to find out what the author puts this couple through next !
This voluntary take is of an advanced copy and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
January 9, 2022
A solid sequel. :)
✔ Good pacing.
✔ I said it already, but I love how unique Ava's magic is. Spells using embroidery? First time I encountered it!
✔ When magic-user is the main character they are often The One that will save the world. Or are overpowered and all mighty. I love it how Ava is not prophecized about, and how being a magic-user is not all great. And how she has to use her wits too and other strength to get away from her enemies.
But also:
✘ I feel like nothing significant happened in this book. I didn't feel it was slow while reading but somehow I expected more would happen in the sequel...
Nice romance fantasy series with likable characters and a unique magic system. Recommended. <3
WARNING: If you plan to read it, make sure to start with the prequel, The Rising Wave - it contains important information and the first book will be flatter without it.
✔ Good pacing.
✔ I said it already, but I love how unique Ava's magic is. Spells using embroidery? First time I encountered it!
✔ When magic-user is the main character they are often The One that will save the world. Or are overpowered and all mighty. I love it how Ava is not prophecized about, and how being a magic-user is not all great. And how she has to use her wits too and other strength to get away from her enemies.
But also:
✘ I feel like nothing significant happened in this book. I didn't feel it was slow while reading but somehow I expected more would happen in the sequel...
Nice romance fantasy series with likable characters and a unique magic system. Recommended. <3
WARNING: If you plan to read it, make sure to start with the prequel, The Rising Wave - it contains important information and the first book will be flatter without it.
December 28, 2021
An Enthralling New Addition To The Rising Wave Series!
I loved this book. It carries on from the events in The Turncoat King, and the series should be read in order for maximum enjoyment, yet each book is complete in itself.
Ava and Luc’s story continues, with another enthralling chapter.
The bond between these two is a palpable thing, and such a joy to read. They are seperated for a large part of the book, but it’s clear their stories and destiny is interwoven.
Michelle Diener’s world building is extraordinary. As you read, you become part of this world, the characters become friends, and while always a satisfying read, I find myself reluctant to rejoin the ‘real world’ at the end of the book, and will often re read the final two conclusive chapters of Michelle Dieners books, as I don’t want it to end, it’s that satisfying a read.
Ava, The Threadbare Queen, shows enormous strength, resilience and compassion, when she is captured, in a life threatening situation.
Luc faces threats on multiple levels while protecting this hard won alliance.
Each of the characters could stand alone, but together they are so much more .
The way the author writes them as a couple is inspiring. I do so loathe the popular grunting, neanderthal male trope.
I highly recommend this book, and the entire series, Michelle’s books just keep getting better. She covers a wide range of genres, but whichever of her worlds she’s writing in, is a guaranteed re read for me, and I rarely re read a book.
I was very excited to receive ARC of this in exchange for an honest review, and will admit to bias as Michelle Diner is one of my favourite authors.
———————————
“No, I don’t write a synopsis. If you’re here reading reviews, you’ve already come that far!”
I loved this book. It carries on from the events in The Turncoat King, and the series should be read in order for maximum enjoyment, yet each book is complete in itself.
Ava and Luc’s story continues, with another enthralling chapter.
The bond between these two is a palpable thing, and such a joy to read. They are seperated for a large part of the book, but it’s clear their stories and destiny is interwoven.
Michelle Diener’s world building is extraordinary. As you read, you become part of this world, the characters become friends, and while always a satisfying read, I find myself reluctant to rejoin the ‘real world’ at the end of the book, and will often re read the final two conclusive chapters of Michelle Dieners books, as I don’t want it to end, it’s that satisfying a read.
Ava, The Threadbare Queen, shows enormous strength, resilience and compassion, when she is captured, in a life threatening situation.
Luc faces threats on multiple levels while protecting this hard won alliance.
Each of the characters could stand alone, but together they are so much more .
The way the author writes them as a couple is inspiring. I do so loathe the popular grunting, neanderthal male trope.
I highly recommend this book, and the entire series, Michelle’s books just keep getting better. She covers a wide range of genres, but whichever of her worlds she’s writing in, is a guaranteed re read for me, and I rarely re read a book.
I was very excited to receive ARC of this in exchange for an honest review, and will admit to bias as Michelle Diner is one of my favourite authors.
———————————
“No, I don’t write a synopsis. If you’re here reading reviews, you’ve already come that far!”
December 30, 2021
Ok Sequel, Interested in What Happens Next!
This was an OK sequel to the Turncoat King. I didn’t like that Luc and Ava spent most of the book separated from one another. I also felt like each conflict was resolved a little too easily. Lots of quick resolutions and talking it out made this book drag a little. Ava’s powers changed and expanded in new and unexpected ways. That was really interesting to see and I’m excited to see how she keeps growing as a character!
This was an OK sequel to the Turncoat King. I didn’t like that Luc and Ava spent most of the book separated from one another. I also felt like each conflict was resolved a little too easily. Lots of quick resolutions and talking it out made this book drag a little. Ava’s powers changed and expanded in new and unexpected ways. That was really interesting to see and I’m excited to see how she keeps growing as a character!
December 24, 2021
Enjoyable series, nice romance and sweet characters, however there seemed to be a lack of tension and drama in this, the problems are resolved a bit too quickly. I did enjoy this and I thought the writing was nice, with a little more angst and drama it would be 4 stars.
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for a free copy for an honest opinion
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for a free copy for an honest opinion
May 13, 2022
4 Stars
MC's: Kassia & Luc
There was a lot going on in this book. A new Queen, unrest in the country, ticked off factions, and of course there are those who want Kassia for her abilities. Abilities, that if others could control, would allow them to be in power. Luc and Kassia don't spend a lot of time together in The Threadbare Queen. There are 2 story arcs going on....which come together in the end. There is no ultimate conclusions within the story because the story continues in book 3, Fate's Arrow.
MC's: Kassia & Luc
There was a lot going on in this book. A new Queen, unrest in the country, ticked off factions, and of course there are those who want Kassia for her abilities. Abilities, that if others could control, would allow them to be in power. Luc and Kassia don't spend a lot of time together in The Threadbare Queen. There are 2 story arcs going on....which come together in the end. There is no ultimate conclusions within the story because the story continues in book 3, Fate's Arrow.
December 22, 2021
3.5 stars.
This was fast paced, engaging, and easy to read from beginning to end. I’m looking forward to the next installment. Now I’m off to find some inspiring hair braiding tutorials! (You’ll understand when you read the book. 😉)
This was fast paced, engaging, and easy to read from beginning to end. I’m looking forward to the next installment. Now I’m off to find some inspiring hair braiding tutorials! (You’ll understand when you read the book. 😉)
December 23, 2021
I really love this series. It’s a light read full of action, drama, and romance (always a plus). Hoping we don’t have to wait too long for the next one
January 5, 2022
Enjoyed the progression of the storyline
Really enjoying the progression of the storyline in The Rising Wave series. I decided to do a reread of the novella & first book in this series before starting The Threadbare Queen, and I’m glad I did revisit so everything was fresh in my mind ( this series needs to be read in order ).
Ava & Luc may spend the majority of this instalment apart, but there is so much else happening that I didn’t even mind. I’m looking forward to the next book in the series already, as Luc and Ava seek revenge against those that have wronged them. Hopefully there may be some more fight scenes where Ava can showcase her skill set, she didn’t have the opportunity in The Threadbare Queen to physically spar, but her other abilities were again put to good use.
Really enjoying the progression of the storyline in The Rising Wave series. I decided to do a reread of the novella & first book in this series before starting The Threadbare Queen, and I’m glad I did revisit so everything was fresh in my mind ( this series needs to be read in order ).
Ava & Luc may spend the majority of this instalment apart, but there is so much else happening that I didn’t even mind. I’m looking forward to the next book in the series already, as Luc and Ava seek revenge against those that have wronged them. Hopefully there may be some more fight scenes where Ava can showcase her skill set, she didn’t have the opportunity in The Threadbare Queen to physically spar, but her other abilities were again put to good use.
February 13, 2022
3.75 ***
This wasn't a bad sequel but it had that 'bridge book' feel to it. Ava and Luc are separated for most of the story. Luc is protecting Kassia and Cervantes from invading neighbors in Jatan. Ava is kidnapped and being taken to Grimwalt. No new information in this book as to why the Speaker in Grimwalt wants Ava. I hope the next book begins to resolve some of the issues.
This wasn't a bad sequel but it had that 'bridge book' feel to it. Ava and Luc are separated for most of the story. Luc is protecting Kassia and Cervantes from invading neighbors in Jatan. Ava is kidnapped and being taken to Grimwalt. No new information in this book as to why the Speaker in Grimwalt wants Ava. I hope the next book begins to resolve some of the issues.
December 21, 2021
Good story
This is a good continuation of the previous stories while being self contained enough to be a stand alone. It better with the other stories though. There is an over all plot arc that continues the story into another book without being a cliffhanger. I really like the series and will read them again and look forward to the next installment eagerly.
This is a good continuation of the previous stories while being self contained enough to be a stand alone. It better with the other stories though. There is an over all plot arc that continues the story into another book without being a cliffhanger. I really like the series and will read them again and look forward to the next installment eagerly.
January 7, 2022
Michelle Diener is an auto-buy author for me, and the Rising Wave series is another appealing book series that sweeps me up into the stories. THE THREADBARE QUEEN has everything I look for in a fantasy book. Engaging and admirable protagonists, a well fleshed out complement of secondary characters, great world building, and plenty of action and romance.
See my full review at Fresh Fiction: https://freshfiction.com/review.php?i...
See my full review at Fresh Fiction: https://freshfiction.com/review.php?i...
December 21, 2021
No rest for the weary
Fernwell wasn't won, it just sort of rolled into their hands after the monarchs killed each other for them. Luc was able to retire every Kassian soldier, though, and put them to work rebuilding. But the Speaker still has opportunists waiting to grab Ava. They still plan to take Grimwalt and then their allies through Ava's magic. When Luc learns that Jatan has slipped the war confused borders and may be heading towards his already ravaged Cervantes, he's forced out of Fernwell. And Ava is smart but magic is all about chance.
Spoilers ahead.
Oh, these are good stories. Ava is strong, kind, and powerful. She doesn't like her new job but knows she can't trust the nobles left in the city. Luc is a leader, caring and strong, but his past pulls stronger than he wants. All the warriors of Cervantes followed him to war, leaving no protection behind to face the vengeful Jatan. They're angry over the mines that the old queen took over. She turned the workers into slaves and then tried to take their borders as well. So when the Kassian army left to defend Fernwell, they decided to take whatever they could from the border towns. But discovering no soldiers created too many opportunities to hit even more towns. We see Ava's struggle to become herself again, after a spell steals nearly all she is. We see Luc and his family track down Jatan marauders while reconnecting to their people. And giving them both hope. We see General Ru try to hold Fernwell with both leaders gone. Search parties desperate to find Ava. We watch Ava, still weak, protect others, and continue to think and prepare. Diener creates strong female characters. This is turning into my favorite series. And I didn't think anything could top her Class 5 series- which she's adding to, yay! Some of the rescues are more than a little timely, but I appreciate that even in a war it's about preventing battle after battle and they attempt to mend rather than rend.
Fernwell wasn't won, it just sort of rolled into their hands after the monarchs killed each other for them. Luc was able to retire every Kassian soldier, though, and put them to work rebuilding. But the Speaker still has opportunists waiting to grab Ava. They still plan to take Grimwalt and then their allies through Ava's magic. When Luc learns that Jatan has slipped the war confused borders and may be heading towards his already ravaged Cervantes, he's forced out of Fernwell. And Ava is smart but magic is all about chance.
Spoilers ahead.
Oh, these are good stories. Ava is strong, kind, and powerful. She doesn't like her new job but knows she can't trust the nobles left in the city. Luc is a leader, caring and strong, but his past pulls stronger than he wants. All the warriors of Cervantes followed him to war, leaving no protection behind to face the vengeful Jatan. They're angry over the mines that the old queen took over. She turned the workers into slaves and then tried to take their borders as well. So when the Kassian army left to defend Fernwell, they decided to take whatever they could from the border towns. But discovering no soldiers created too many opportunities to hit even more towns. We see Ava's struggle to become herself again, after a spell steals nearly all she is. We see Luc and his family track down Jatan marauders while reconnecting to their people. And giving them both hope. We see General Ru try to hold Fernwell with both leaders gone. Search parties desperate to find Ava. We watch Ava, still weak, protect others, and continue to think and prepare. Diener creates strong female characters. This is turning into my favorite series. And I didn't think anything could top her Class 5 series- which she's adding to, yay! Some of the rescues are more than a little timely, but I appreciate that even in a war it's about preventing battle after battle and they attempt to mend rather than rend.
August 30, 2025
The Threadbare Queen
Oh my gosh their story gets so much better. I really want to see Ava kick that grimwaldians ass. I couldn't stand seeing her so frail it was heartbreaking. This story sucked you in and held your attention from the get go. The characters get better and better. The world building was awesome. The magic and wonder of a warrior woman with a strong man who will protect her from anything. I really can't wait to read the next book in this series. I highly recommend this series!
Oh my gosh their story gets so much better. I really want to see Ava kick that grimwaldians ass. I couldn't stand seeing her so frail it was heartbreaking. This story sucked you in and held your attention from the get go. The characters get better and better. The world building was awesome. The magic and wonder of a warrior woman with a strong man who will protect her from anything. I really can't wait to read the next book in this series. I highly recommend this series!
July 14, 2024
**MINOR SPOILERS**
This book is the second book in the Rising Wave series and there is also a prequel novella called The Rising Wave. The novella and the first book were offered free as a way to appeal to new readers, so I took the opportunity to try a new author and I am glad I did. I ended up downloading and reading the entire series back to back. I do not recommend reading this story as a standalone.
The author created a robust and interesting world. It involves several different kingdoms. One of them, Kassia, not only had suppressed their own citizens, but tried to dominate others. It was nice to have a map included that showed the different countries involved in the story. Ava and Luc were part of a successful rebellion against the old queen.
Ava is now the queen of Kassia. Ava was smart, determined, and strong. I thought she was awesome throughout the series. Ava’s mother and grandmother had the same magic but were reluctant to teach her how to use it. Ava’s mother had been kidnapped in order to try to manipulate her usage of magic and she had feared the same thing would happen to Ava. As the series continues, Ava learns on her own about what her magic can do. Ava’s ability to wield magic includes the ability to affect the behavior of others. This raised some moral and ethical questions. Ava knows that she must be careful with her abilities.
In this book, her mother’s concerns come true. Ava is kidnapped by the leader of a neighboring country who wants to use her abilities to secure his position and more. This happens when she is apart from Luc. She is able to rescue herself with the help of a few others. A child, Melodie, is an amazing young girl with magic that helps Ava. Melodie is the main character in another book in the series that takes place several years later.
Luc is protective, loyal, and true. He is called away from Ava in order to address an issue with a possible invasion at the border. He leaves Ava in the capital with the assumption that she will be safe. Luc was the Turncoat King, the leader of the group of rebels, that helped topple the previous regime and installed Ava as the new queen. He is also called the Commander. He is a good leader and strategist. The way Luc and Ava resolve the issue with the border invasion was well done.
The secondary characters are interesting. I liked how both Ava and Luc bonded with others. It was nice to see the various friendships in this story.
The story alternated between Luc and Ava’s point of view. It is an engaging, fast read.
Note for some: it would have been easy to include violence against women in this story. The author did not do so, and I was glad of it.
I went on to buy the remainder of the books of the series that are released. If there is a next one comes out, I do plan to read it. This book came to a conclusion while leading into the next book.
Note: there is a bonus short story that is set after Truth’s Blade, the fourth book in the series. It is available for free if you sign up for the author’s newsletter. In addition, I believe the author is planning another book in the world.
This book is the second book in the Rising Wave series and there is also a prequel novella called The Rising Wave. The novella and the first book were offered free as a way to appeal to new readers, so I took the opportunity to try a new author and I am glad I did. I ended up downloading and reading the entire series back to back. I do not recommend reading this story as a standalone.
The author created a robust and interesting world. It involves several different kingdoms. One of them, Kassia, not only had suppressed their own citizens, but tried to dominate others. It was nice to have a map included that showed the different countries involved in the story. Ava and Luc were part of a successful rebellion against the old queen.
Ava is now the queen of Kassia. Ava was smart, determined, and strong. I thought she was awesome throughout the series. Ava’s mother and grandmother had the same magic but were reluctant to teach her how to use it. Ava’s mother had been kidnapped in order to try to manipulate her usage of magic and she had feared the same thing would happen to Ava. As the series continues, Ava learns on her own about what her magic can do. Ava’s ability to wield magic includes the ability to affect the behavior of others. This raised some moral and ethical questions. Ava knows that she must be careful with her abilities.
In this book, her mother’s concerns come true. Ava is kidnapped by the leader of a neighboring country who wants to use her abilities to secure his position and more. This happens when she is apart from Luc. She is able to rescue herself with the help of a few others. A child, Melodie, is an amazing young girl with magic that helps Ava. Melodie is the main character in another book in the series that takes place several years later.
Luc is protective, loyal, and true. He is called away from Ava in order to address an issue with a possible invasion at the border. He leaves Ava in the capital with the assumption that she will be safe. Luc was the Turncoat King, the leader of the group of rebels, that helped topple the previous regime and installed Ava as the new queen. He is also called the Commander. He is a good leader and strategist. The way Luc and Ava resolve the issue with the border invasion was well done.
The secondary characters are interesting. I liked how both Ava and Luc bonded with others. It was nice to see the various friendships in this story.
The story alternated between Luc and Ava’s point of view. It is an engaging, fast read.
Note for some: it would have been easy to include violence against women in this story. The author did not do so, and I was glad of it.
I went on to buy the remainder of the books of the series that are released. If there is a next one comes out, I do plan to read it. This book came to a conclusion while leading into the next book.
Note: there is a bonus short story that is set after Truth’s Blade, the fourth book in the series. It is available for free if you sign up for the author’s newsletter. In addition, I believe the author is planning another book in the world.
May 7, 2023
French & English reviews
Un deuxième tome haut en rebondissement que j'ai beaucoup apprécié
Un deuxième tome qui commence juste après la fin du précédent livre et on peut voir les conséquences du coup d'état et tout ce que nos héros vont devoir faire pour organiser le nouvel ordre politique après la prise de Kassia.
J'ai particulièrement apprécié que les deux héros se retrouvent séparer la majorité du tome et que chacun se retrouve en grande difficulté de son côté (quand Ava se retrouve prisonnière ... Horrible !!)
Encore une fois c'est une lecture plaisante mais il manque une certaine profondeur qui m'empêche d'avoir un coup de coeur ... Tout est trop facile ! L'héroïne réussit tout et même quand elle est à deux doigts de la mort, elle arrive quand même à s'en sortir seule ! Même la romance ne rencontre aucune difficulté ! Elle a un côté trop parfait / lisse ...
J'aurais souhaité aussi que l'univers soit plus développé, notamment la magie (comment ça fonctionne, quelles sont les règles ...)
Bref, une deuxième tome de fantasy qui se lit facilement, parfait pour se distraire
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
A second book with a lot of twists that I really enjoyed
A second book that begins just after the end of the previous book and we can see the consequences of the coup and all that our heroes will have to do to organize the new political order after taking Kassia.
I particularly appreciated that thetwo heroes find themselves separated for the majority of the book and that each finds him/herself in great difficulty on his/her side (when Ava finds herself a prisoner ... Horrible !!)
Once again it's a pleasant read but it lacks a certain depth that prevents me from having a crush ... Everything is too easy ! The heroine succeeds in everything and even when she is close to death, she still manages to get by on her own ! Even the romance encounters no difficulty ! She is too perfect/smooth ...
I would also have liked the universe to be more developed, especially the magic (how does it work, what are the rules ...)
In short, a second book of fantasy that is easy to read, perfect for entertainment
Un deuxième tome haut en rebondissement que j'ai beaucoup apprécié
Un deuxième tome qui commence juste après la fin du précédent livre et on peut voir les conséquences du coup d'état et tout ce que nos héros vont devoir faire pour organiser le nouvel ordre politique après la prise de Kassia.
J'ai particulièrement apprécié que les deux héros se retrouvent séparer la majorité du tome et que chacun se retrouve en grande difficulté de son côté (quand Ava se retrouve prisonnière ... Horrible !!)
Encore une fois c'est une lecture plaisante mais il manque une certaine profondeur qui m'empêche d'avoir un coup de coeur ... Tout est trop facile ! L'héroïne réussit tout et même quand elle est à deux doigts de la mort, elle arrive quand même à s'en sortir seule ! Même la romance ne rencontre aucune difficulté ! Elle a un côté trop parfait / lisse ...
J'aurais souhaité aussi que l'univers soit plus développé, notamment la magie (comment ça fonctionne, quelles sont les règles ...)
Bref, une deuxième tome de fantasy qui se lit facilement, parfait pour se distraire
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
A second book with a lot of twists that I really enjoyed
A second book that begins just after the end of the previous book and we can see the consequences of the coup and all that our heroes will have to do to organize the new political order after taking Kassia.
I particularly appreciated that thetwo heroes find themselves separated for the majority of the book and that each finds him/herself in great difficulty on his/her side (when Ava finds herself a prisoner ... Horrible !!)
Once again it's a pleasant read but it lacks a certain depth that prevents me from having a crush ... Everything is too easy ! The heroine succeeds in everything and even when she is close to death, she still manages to get by on her own ! Even the romance encounters no difficulty ! She is too perfect/smooth ...
I would also have liked the universe to be more developed, especially the magic (how does it work, what are the rules ...)
In short, a second book of fantasy that is easy to read, perfect for entertainment
December 17, 2021
The Rising Wave may have won the major battle with Kassia overtaking the corrupt monarchy; however, the wars and continuing skirmishes are far from over. The region of Jatan takes advantage of turmoil and upheaval to send its army across the borders to prey on the villages of northern Kassia as well as Luc’s home territory of Cervantes to the east. Since he has most of his army with in Fernwell, Luc feels he must take some troops to defend the affected areas even though that means being parted from not only his heart’s choice, Ava, who is now queen, but leaving her to the devices of the council members whose loyalty is suspect. Things are still quite unsettled with the political turn of events for Ava and her advisors in Fernwell.
Ava has more of her own troubles when someone employed by the head of Grimwalt, known as the Speaker, sends a kidnapper who whisks Ava away treating her very poorly. Almost all of Ava’s magic is stolen in the long trek back to her homeland. Ava has relied for years on her abilities to stitch and weave magic into protections and spells, but now, robbed of her health and strength she must, very slowly with the help of some new friends, develop a plan to escape her captors before they reach Grimwalt.
Luc and Ava have separate paths to trod in the second full novel of the Rising Wave series and since they are apart for most of the book, it is essentially two different though connected stories. Ava had already spent years as a prisoner of the former queen’s Herald so once again being in a captive situation and made even more helpless is hard for her to endure. Luc is mostly known as a Warlord so he is still proving that he along with Ava plan to have peace and prosperity in Kassia and surrounding territories for all. While this book is well written as always with Ms. Diener’s tales, I did miss Luc and Ava working and being together as in the previous stories.
Ava has more of her own troubles when someone employed by the head of Grimwalt, known as the Speaker, sends a kidnapper who whisks Ava away treating her very poorly. Almost all of Ava’s magic is stolen in the long trek back to her homeland. Ava has relied for years on her abilities to stitch and weave magic into protections and spells, but now, robbed of her health and strength she must, very slowly with the help of some new friends, develop a plan to escape her captors before they reach Grimwalt.
Luc and Ava have separate paths to trod in the second full novel of the Rising Wave series and since they are apart for most of the book, it is essentially two different though connected stories. Ava had already spent years as a prisoner of the former queen’s Herald so once again being in a captive situation and made even more helpless is hard for her to endure. Luc is mostly known as a Warlord so he is still proving that he along with Ava plan to have peace and prosperity in Kassia and surrounding territories for all. While this book is well written as always with Ms. Diener’s tales, I did miss Luc and Ava working and being together as in the previous stories.
December 23, 2021
When you have to adult and not just enjoy the spoils of war...
This is book 2 on the Rising Wave series, one that kicked off with the novella of the same name. To truly enjoy the full aspects, you need to start from the beginning.
Many times you read a fantasy novel, and at the end, it seems all wrapped up; they've won the war/battle and live happily ever after. Though Ava and Luc did finally get back to each other in The Turncoat King, it was not quite the HEA.
After Ava wins her true place as queen, with Luc's army, they do not sit easy as new rulers. They are left to settle an uneasy nation, more enemies taking advantage of defenseless borders, and what's more, dealing with hostile established nobles, who want the previous status quo, had them highly stressed.
Ava and Luc pick right back up where book 1 left off, and immediately drop right back into the action with the intrigue of court life, and the violent life of the soldiers trying to establish peace.
Luc has to race away and put a damper on invading forces, and Ava has the fight of her life as she's stolen from under her people's noses, right off the street.
Ava's sheer determination to survive and make it back to Luc, and Luc's natural leadership, drive and compassion, made me root for her, Luc, his followers, and I need them to all have peace, but alas it's not to be in this installment. Long-time friendships are tried, and new friendships are solidified. I imagine the Rising Wave soldiers to be similar to the Unsullied from GoT. The magic Ava possesses is quite unusual, and in my mind, likened a bit to Rapunzel in Tangled... her innate magic infuses into what she wields with her hands, namely sewing/embroidery or braiding.
Fantasy and magic aside, it has the feel of what it could truly be in trying to calm a nation freshly won over through war and how the various inhabitants might react to new leaders.
I enjoyed it very much, and am looking forward to the next book!
This is book 2 on the Rising Wave series, one that kicked off with the novella of the same name. To truly enjoy the full aspects, you need to start from the beginning.
Many times you read a fantasy novel, and at the end, it seems all wrapped up; they've won the war/battle and live happily ever after. Though Ava and Luc did finally get back to each other in The Turncoat King, it was not quite the HEA.
After Ava wins her true place as queen, with Luc's army, they do not sit easy as new rulers. They are left to settle an uneasy nation, more enemies taking advantage of defenseless borders, and what's more, dealing with hostile established nobles, who want the previous status quo, had them highly stressed.
Ava and Luc pick right back up where book 1 left off, and immediately drop right back into the action with the intrigue of court life, and the violent life of the soldiers trying to establish peace.
Luc has to race away and put a damper on invading forces, and Ava has the fight of her life as she's stolen from under her people's noses, right off the street.
Ava's sheer determination to survive and make it back to Luc, and Luc's natural leadership, drive and compassion, made me root for her, Luc, his followers, and I need them to all have peace, but alas it's not to be in this installment. Long-time friendships are tried, and new friendships are solidified. I imagine the Rising Wave soldiers to be similar to the Unsullied from GoT. The magic Ava possesses is quite unusual, and in my mind, likened a bit to Rapunzel in Tangled... her innate magic infuses into what she wields with her hands, namely sewing/embroidery or braiding.
Fantasy and magic aside, it has the feel of what it could truly be in trying to calm a nation freshly won over through war and how the various inhabitants might react to new leaders.
I enjoyed it very much, and am looking forward to the next book!
December 16, 2021
What a fantastic continuation of The Rising Wave series. Even though the Rising Wave has taken Kassia, it is discovered that one of their neighbors, the Jatan (who had been fighting with the Kassians), have crossed the border now that they have no one to stop them, and are raiding not only in Kassia, but in Luc’s home region of Cervantes. Luc must take his warriors and put a stop to their incursions and push them back over the border. While Luc is gone, Grimwalt’s Speaker manages to do what he’s been trying to do for months, capture Ava and transport her back to Grimwalt. The object her abductors use to subdue her not only saps her vitality and magic, but it drains her of her life-force as well. Ava’s will is strong, so even in her weakened state, she fights to defeat the evil used against her, and she has help with some unlikely companions, including a five-year-old girl. Although Ava does pretty well on her own to escape her captors, she and Luc are much stronger together and once they finally find each other again, they are able to defeat their enemies, although there is still work to be done to combat the threat from Grimwalt. It was so hard to see strong, independent Ava be brought low, but I knew she’d find a way to persevere. Seeing Luc and Ava together is such a pleasure, especially since for most of the story they are apart, and General Ru finding love was a fun little addition to the story. I look forward to the next book in the series, where I hope they’ll resolve that Grimwalt threat and take out the horrible Speaker.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
December 23, 2021
The Threadbare Queen
Welcome back to Ava’s next adventure! We pick up right where we left off, with Ava now the newly crowned Queen, things aren’t going as smoothly as she hoped.
With the previous council and the Nobels conspiring against the crown and the people of Fernwell, Ava is just trying to keep things going smoothly and instead of enjoying the victory, she is forced to sneak outside the castle and listen to what the people of Kassia think of their new Queen.
As Ava is lured away from her protectors, Luc is away on a mission to stop the defeated Jatan army from wreaking havoc on the already impoverished people of Cervantes, but instead of finding a quick solution to stopping the raiders, he is forced to engage in another skirmish.
Follow Ava and Luc in their latest adventures as they learn that as bad as things may seem, they have something that can’t be taken away from them. They just need to have faith and hold onto everything they have worked so hard to achieve.
If you enjoy a strong FMC and a strong hero who will inspire his heart’s chosen to be all that she can be, then this is the book for you!!! Grab a glass of wine, some of your favorite chocolates, a nice quiet corner to hide out in….then be prepared to lose yourself in the fantastic world that Michelle Diener has created for us!
This is one book you are going to be so happy you added to your collection!
Welcome back to Ava’s next adventure! We pick up right where we left off, with Ava now the newly crowned Queen, things aren’t going as smoothly as she hoped.
With the previous council and the Nobels conspiring against the crown and the people of Fernwell, Ava is just trying to keep things going smoothly and instead of enjoying the victory, she is forced to sneak outside the castle and listen to what the people of Kassia think of their new Queen.
As Ava is lured away from her protectors, Luc is away on a mission to stop the defeated Jatan army from wreaking havoc on the already impoverished people of Cervantes, but instead of finding a quick solution to stopping the raiders, he is forced to engage in another skirmish.
Follow Ava and Luc in their latest adventures as they learn that as bad as things may seem, they have something that can’t be taken away from them. They just need to have faith and hold onto everything they have worked so hard to achieve.
If you enjoy a strong FMC and a strong hero who will inspire his heart’s chosen to be all that she can be, then this is the book for you!!! Grab a glass of wine, some of your favorite chocolates, a nice quiet corner to hide out in….then be prepared to lose yourself in the fantastic world that Michelle Diener has created for us!
This is one book you are going to be so happy you added to your collection!
November 21, 2025
4 stars.
This book continues directly from book 1 The Turncoat King. Luc and Ava had just secured the old Queen's city with Ava pronounced the new Queen as she is the dead Queen's niece.
But soon news reaches them that opportunistic neighbours are encroaching at the borders of Ava's new territory and Luc's home country. Thus, Luc and Ava are forced to part company with Luc taking a contingent of his Army to deal with the neighbours whilst Ava remains in Court to deal with the disgruntled nobles and councilors.
However, not long after Luc had left, Ava is kidnapped by the same people from the previous book who are working for the Speaker of her old country. This is where the book is split into two storylines, one following Luc as he races to save the people in the border townships and vanquish the neighbours. The other is Ava's harrowing journey as her kidnappers try to get her across the border and her escape.
I enjoyed all the action, and Ava meets some memorable characters on her journey that I believe will appear in future books? I also liked how General Ru kept things together for Luc and Ava. These books are so much fun! Looking forward to the next one.
This book continues directly from book 1 The Turncoat King. Luc and Ava had just secured the old Queen's city with Ava pronounced the new Queen as she is the dead Queen's niece.
But soon news reaches them that opportunistic neighbours are encroaching at the borders of Ava's new territory and Luc's home country. Thus, Luc and Ava are forced to part company with Luc taking a contingent of his Army to deal with the neighbours whilst Ava remains in Court to deal with the disgruntled nobles and councilors.
However, not long after Luc had left, Ava is kidnapped by the same people from the previous book who are working for the Speaker of her old country. This is where the book is split into two storylines, one following Luc as he races to save the people in the border townships and vanquish the neighbours. The other is Ava's harrowing journey as her kidnappers try to get her across the border and her escape.
I enjoyed all the action, and Ava meets some memorable characters on her journey that I believe will appear in future books? I also liked how General Ru kept things together for Luc and Ava. These books are so much fun! Looking forward to the next one.
December 20, 2021
Follow-up to The Turncoat King, The Threadbare Queen, is just as gritty and spellbinding. This book should be read right after reading the first book. It is not recommended to read this as a standalone. Book 2 in The Rising Wave series picks up right after the events completed in Book 1.
This book's focal point is still Ava. Ava is now a queen of a kingdom she does not want. The responsibilities and duties are not what she is prepared for nor can she implement the changes she wants. Kassia has been a kingdom of chaos and insanity ruled by a tyrant and her evil nobles. Quite honestly, thinking about what Ava needs to do to bring order to Kassia when it isn't even her homeland, makes me cringe.
To read the rest of my review, click on the image below to see it on my website on or after December 21, 2021.
This book's focal point is still Ava. Ava is now a queen of a kingdom she does not want. The responsibilities and duties are not what she is prepared for nor can she implement the changes she wants. Kassia has been a kingdom of chaos and insanity ruled by a tyrant and her evil nobles. Quite honestly, thinking about what Ava needs to do to bring order to Kassia when it isn't even her homeland, makes me cringe.
To read the rest of my review, click on the image below to see it on my website on or after December 21, 2021.
February 11, 2024
This is compelling stuff and I am so glad I found it. This is a continuation of The Turncoat King and should not be read as a standalone. Ok. Right to it. The evil Kassian empire has been vanquished and Ava is now it's powerfully magical queen. Though most are unaware of her magic and power (invisibility rocks). The two main characters (Luc and Ava) actually spend most of the book apart but you don't really mind it because the suspense keeps everything together. Luc discovers that a neighboring country that didn't join the alliance is now raiding into the northern border, including the north of his own home country. He has to hot foot it up there to see what is going on and put a stop to it. Luc thinks he is leaving Ava safely in the southern capitol to begin negotiating the politics of a new leadership. Only somebody knows about Ava's magical abilities and wants to make use of them for their own. Ava had dodged a couple of kidnap attempts presumably from the Speaker of her home country but as soon as Luc leaves she missteps and is kidnapped. Knowing she has magic her kidnappers take pains to render her helpless. The book switches back and forth between Ava trying to survive her capture and escape and Luc trying to prevent another huge conflict while stomping out interference. It's pins and needles and both points of view were equally enthralling. Loved, loved it.
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