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The Elf Tangent
As a princess in the impoverished kingdom of Delantria, it’s Aldari’s job to look pretty, speak little, and marry a prince.
Studying mathematics and writing papers on economic theory in an effort to fix her people’s financial woes? Her father has forbidden it. With war on the horizon, they must focus on the immediate threat.
Reluctantly, Aldari agrees to marry a prince in a neighboring kingdom to secure an alliance her people desperately need. All is going to plan until the handsome elven mercenary captain hired to guard her marriage caravan turns into her kidnapper. His people are in trouble, and he believes she has the knowledge to help.
But with an invasion force approaching Delantria, Aldari’s own people need her. She must do everything in her power to escape the elves and make it to her wedding in time.
Never mind that her kidnapper is witty, clever, and offers her a challenge that intrigues her mind even as his easy smile intrigues her heart…
Aldari can’t let herself develop feelings for him. To fall in love and walk away from her wedding would mean the end of her kingdom and everyone she cares about.
Studying mathematics and writing papers on economic theory in an effort to fix her people’s financial woes? Her father has forbidden it. With war on the horizon, they must focus on the immediate threat.
Reluctantly, Aldari agrees to marry a prince in a neighboring kingdom to secure an alliance her people desperately need. All is going to plan until the handsome elven mercenary captain hired to guard her marriage caravan turns into her kidnapper. His people are in trouble, and he believes she has the knowledge to help.
But with an invasion force approaching Delantria, Aldari’s own people need her. She must do everything in her power to escape the elves and make it to her wedding in time.
Never mind that her kidnapper is witty, clever, and offers her a challenge that intrigues her mind even as his easy smile intrigues her heart…
Aldari can’t let herself develop feelings for him. To fall in love and walk away from her wedding would mean the end of her kingdom and everyone she cares about.
404 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 22, 2022
1265 people are currently reading
13131 people want to read
About the author
Lindsay Buroker
198 books6,248 followersI'm a full-time indie fantasy and science fiction author. When I'm not writing, I'm ferrying my dogs to hiking trails for adventures.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 718 reviews
August 18, 2023
A new Lindsay Buroker fantasy? I'm always going to at least try it. They're not always to my liking, but they're never a waste of time. But seriously, zombies? If I had known this was a zombie story, I'd have given it a hard pass. As it stands, I was far enough in before discovering it that I continued anyway.
If you aren't familiar with Buroker, know that she tends to flavor her fantasy with modernisms that have weak internal support. They're always interesting, and always built into the main character in such a way that you just want to give it to her because it makes the story go. In this one, Aldari is an academic nerd and has published treatises on economics with advanced math (at least trigonometry). She has done this as an undergraduate-aged (in our world) princess in a smallish country with a single big city that apparently has dozens of libraries that all carry obscure mathematical texts in them, even the ones tucked away in small corners of the city. Where did she learn all this stuff? And how are all these early twentieth-century concepts so common that she can auto-didact her way into mastery?
But I knew that going in. And since Buroker also likes strong heroines with courage and capability, I was immediately engaged with Aldari and invested in her success. Which is why her political marriage creeped me out right from the start. Which is problematic when the entire motivation for the story is her trying to get to her fiancé for the benefits of the proposed alliance. And every detail we learn (thankfully few) it seems like a terrible bargain for both her and her people. I mean, she's desirable chiefly, primarily, and contractually for being a virgin. So much ew.
Fortunately, Hawk shows up early and gets his brood on with a menacing chaser. Which was also awesome. And having them at odds for those first parts of the story was outstanding. And having them grow together through observation and respect was even better.
And then zombies happen. And once I realized that we're dealing with zombies, I wasn't nearly so happy with anything to do with the story any more. Seriously. Stop with the zombies. Or maybe label clearly so I can know in advance? Please?
This would have barely eked out five stars because I like strong heroines and ones who are kind and courageous just melt my heart. And capable heroes who care for and about those around him are all of my jam. So despite some bits I just have to go with, this would have ended with all the stars. But I have a standard zombie price of "at least one star" so four it is. Barely, though, because I hated being ambushed like that. It was somewhat offset .
A note about Chaste: Yeah, she's a virgin. And has to remain so if anything is to come of their alliance. There's a sexual assault scene that didn't progress very far, thankfully, and a couple of kisses and tattered clothing that isn't actually revealing. And Aldari's sister is sexually adventurous and likes talking in non-specific terms. I consider this very chaste because those are all either vague enough or not actually sexual. But you could go the other way if you are more strict.
If you aren't familiar with Buroker, know that she tends to flavor her fantasy with modernisms that have weak internal support. They're always interesting, and always built into the main character in such a way that you just want to give it to her because it makes the story go. In this one, Aldari is an academic nerd and has published treatises on economics with advanced math (at least trigonometry). She has done this as an undergraduate-aged (in our world) princess in a smallish country with a single big city that apparently has dozens of libraries that all carry obscure mathematical texts in them, even the ones tucked away in small corners of the city. Where did she learn all this stuff? And how are all these early twentieth-century concepts so common that she can auto-didact her way into mastery?
But I knew that going in. And since Buroker also likes strong heroines with courage and capability, I was immediately engaged with Aldari and invested in her success. Which is why her political marriage creeped me out right from the start. Which is problematic when the entire motivation for the story is her trying to get to her fiancé for the benefits of the proposed alliance. And every detail we learn (thankfully few) it seems like a terrible bargain for both her and her people. I mean, she's desirable chiefly, primarily, and contractually for being a virgin. So much ew.
Fortunately, Hawk shows up early and gets his brood on with a menacing chaser. Which was also awesome. And having them at odds for those first parts of the story was outstanding. And having them grow together through observation and respect was even better.
And then zombies happen. And once I realized that we're dealing with zombies, I wasn't nearly so happy with anything to do with the story any more. Seriously. Stop with the zombies. Or maybe label clearly so I can know in advance? Please?
This would have barely eked out five stars because I like strong heroines and ones who are kind and courageous just melt my heart. And capable heroes who care for and about those around him are all of my jam. So despite some bits I just have to go with, this would have ended with all the stars. But I have a standard zombie price of "at least one star" so four it is. Barely, though, because I hated being ambushed like that. It was somewhat offset .
A note about Chaste: Yeah, she's a virgin. And has to remain so if anything is to come of their alliance. There's a sexual assault scene that didn't progress very far, thankfully, and a couple of kisses and tattered clothing that isn't actually revealing. And Aldari's sister is sexually adventurous and likes talking in non-specific terms. I consider this very chaste because those are all either vague enough or not actually sexual. But you could go the other way if you are more strict.
October 5, 2022
I liked this one a lot. A fantasy book about elves and zombies but not in a tacky sense. I would say the plot was on the lighter side as it never dove too in depth so I wish we got more with the MCs. They definitely had chemistry and I liked them together but I wanted a few more sweet moments shared between the two. It was also slow in some places and maybe because neither the plot nor the romance really hooked me but I still really enjoyed it!
I think the only major flaw in the book was that it was really good, but just not amazing. Everything was just on the cusp of something exciting that would make me obsessed but slightly missed every time.
I think the only major flaw in the book was that it was really good, but just not amazing. Everything was just on the cusp of something exciting that would make me obsessed but slightly missed every time.
January 4, 2023
Saw the cover- Human x Elf pairing- and Lindsay Buroker--> auto buy!
So to say I was excited for this is facts, but I'll be honest in that I didn't have a ton of fun while reading this one. Not to say it was bad at all, but I felt like the characters were a little flat and there was some...charm missing in the story?
But first backstory--In this book we have our 22 year old h, Aldari, who is the Princess of a Kingdom on the brink of war. In order to secure allies willing to send supplies her father has engaged her to a Prince she's never met. Pretty standard royalty expectations- but what isn't considered standard is Aldari's interests- she is interested in mathematics and economics and has been secretly writing about her Kingdom's plights under a pen name in hopes of making her home more independent and wealthy without outside influences.
Unfortunately the invading country is on their door step, and she is on her way to the wedding when everything in her life takes a turn. The Elven mercenaries ( lead by a man named Hawk) her father hired to help deliver her safely have other plans with the Princess, and take Aldari and her bodyguard Theli captive.
Thus a dangerous journey to the Elven homeland begins...but what could they want Aldari for? And can she make it back for her wedding in time to stop a war?
x---------------------------------x
Spoiler review:
So yeah all in all this wasn't terrible, but I just couldn't get into the characters and didn't really feel any real spark from the mains. Will still look out for any new releases 👀though
But if you have KU maybe give this a try if you're into historical fantasy human/ elf paring with some political intrigue and a bit of adventure.
So to say I was excited for this is facts, but I'll be honest in that I didn't have a ton of fun while reading this one. Not to say it was bad at all, but I felt like the characters were a little flat and there was some...charm missing in the story?
But first backstory--In this book we have our 22 year old h, Aldari, who is the Princess of a Kingdom on the brink of war. In order to secure allies willing to send supplies her father has engaged her to a Prince she's never met. Pretty standard royalty expectations- but what isn't considered standard is Aldari's interests- she is interested in mathematics and economics and has been secretly writing about her Kingdom's plights under a pen name in hopes of making her home more independent and wealthy without outside influences.
Unfortunately the invading country is on their door step, and she is on her way to the wedding when everything in her life takes a turn. The Elven mercenaries ( lead by a man named Hawk) her father hired to help deliver her safely have other plans with the Princess, and take Aldari and her bodyguard Theli captive.
Thus a dangerous journey to the Elven homeland begins...but what could they want Aldari for? And can she make it back for her wedding in time to stop a war?
x---------------------------------x
Spoiler review:
So yeah all in all this wasn't terrible, but I just couldn't get into the characters and didn't really feel any real spark from the mains. Will still look out for any new releases 👀though
But if you have KU maybe give this a try if you're into historical fantasy human/ elf paring with some political intrigue and a bit of adventure.
October 5, 2022
I gave it a 3*** only cause I liked the main characters
This story could of been Soooooooo much better. There is a lot there between Hawk an Aldari. A lot more romance an kissing. The story line was good but a lot left out like it was just throw together to fast. It would of been an good series if Mrs. Buroker would of put more to it.I understand the it was put together while she took a break form her other 2 series.
I have read a lot of her books this just doesn't hold up. I so liked all the main characters that could be so much more to them. More life.
This story could of been Soooooooo much better. There is a lot there between Hawk an Aldari. A lot more romance an kissing. The story line was good but a lot left out like it was just throw together to fast. It would of been an good series if Mrs. Buroker would of put more to it.I understand the it was put together while she took a break form her other 2 series.
I have read a lot of her books this just doesn't hold up. I so liked all the main characters that could be so much more to them. More life.
lost-interest
March 24, 2022What can I say. I hate not finishing a Buroker book, but here I am, losing interest half way in (of which the last half was forced reading).
I don't like the princess - which is a tough one to get over. The protagonists make less than smart decisions, and the hero is unnecessarily enigmatic (come on, we all know who he is after just a few pages!).
I am just not invested enough in the story to get to the predictable ending.
I don't like the princess - which is a tough one to get over. The protagonists make less than smart decisions, and the hero is unnecessarily enigmatic (come on, we all know who he is after just a few pages!).
I am just not invested enough in the story to get to the predictable ending.
December 27, 2024
I was a little wary heading into this. It sounded interested, but there were also little signs that it might not quite be my thing. I wound up liking it at the beginning. A princess who writes economic papers is certainly a novel way to have your princess be not like the other girls, but it's still felt like a forced thing rather than natural. Despite that I enjoyed the character and her interactions with others, including her little brother. I did like that she wasn't looking for a way to escape the marriage or poison the new husband or something.
But we also kept getting little flashes of things that made me roll my eyes and increasingly bad decision making as she and her bodyguard attempted to escape their kidnappers. Escaping during a battle where killer what-its are almost overpowering the kidnappers seems a good way to get a person eaten, but I can almost forgive that. I was unable to forgive the bodyguard's behavior on the boat though. "I know that our people have tales about the man-eating serpents in the river, but if our captors told you the same, then clearly they're just lying to us. The heavily armored boat bristling with harpoons are just there to reinforce the story they're trying to sell us. Quick, let's leap into the water that's now filled with them in the middle of a battle just because unknown humans who may be here to help us but may be working for our enemies say they're here to rescue us!". I noped out of the book after that.
Edited to correct some spelling
But we also kept getting little flashes of things that made me roll my eyes and increasingly bad decision making as she and her bodyguard attempted to escape their kidnappers. Escaping during a battle where killer what-its are almost overpowering the kidnappers seems a good way to get a person eaten, but I can almost forgive that. I was unable to forgive the bodyguard's behavior on the boat though. "I know that our people have tales about the man-eating serpents in the river, but if our captors told you the same, then clearly they're just lying to us. The heavily armored boat bristling with harpoons are just there to reinforce the story they're trying to sell us. Quick, let's leap into the water that's now filled with them in the middle of a battle just because unknown humans who may be here to help us but may be working for our enemies say they're here to rescue us!". I noped out of the book after that.
Edited to correct some spelling
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 2, 2022
I've been a long-time fan of Lindsay Buroker's fantasy books thanks to their unique twists and turns and their laugh-out-loud humor.
While this particular book isn't as humorous as some, I loved the unique, math-obsessed heroine and her swoony, elf hero-kidnapper.
This is a kidnap romance, though it is very well done in the way the heroine believably goes from hating her kidnapper to falling in love with him. He kidnaps her to save his people, and he ends up apologizing for the way he handled everything.
The fight scenes at the end were everything gripping and can't-put-the-book-down action that this author excels at.
The book is a standalone (currently, though I'm really hoping this author stays true to form and adds more books to make this a series!). It is an elf-human romance, and besides from a few sexual innuendos, this book isn't steamy and doesn't go beyond kissing.
While this particular book isn't as humorous as some, I loved the unique, math-obsessed heroine and her swoony, elf hero-kidnapper.
This is a kidnap romance, though it is very well done in the way the heroine believably goes from hating her kidnapper to falling in love with him. He kidnaps her to save his people, and he ends up apologizing for the way he handled everything.
The fight scenes at the end were everything gripping and can't-put-the-book-down action that this author excels at.
The book is a standalone (currently, though I'm really hoping this author stays true to form and adds more books to make this a series!). It is an elf-human romance, and besides from a few sexual innuendos, this book isn't steamy and doesn't go beyond kissing.
October 2, 2022
An elf with a zombie problem kidnaps a princess addicted to solving puzzles.
There's some exciting action scenes, and decent romantic tension, but it stays rather family-friendly and predictable. The puzzles didn't even happen until the final 10% of the book. I had fun but I probably won't remember much of this story in a week or two
There's some exciting action scenes, and decent romantic tension, but it stays rather family-friendly and predictable. The puzzles didn't even happen until the final 10% of the book. I had fun but I probably won't remember much of this story in a week or two
Read
March 20, 2022This wasn't for me.
I felt it couldn't decide quite what it was.
I felt it couldn't decide quite what it was.
September 2, 2022
DNF 21%
Nothing new - the characters and plot are just plain boring.
Nothing new - the characters and plot are just plain boring.
August 22, 2023
This was a bizarre mash of fantasy, zombies, and "steminist" romance. The writing style did not work for me--in Buroker's other urban fantasy series, the tone fit with the modern setting and characters (mostly, though it often wasn't to my liking there, either). But here, it was simply jarring to be in a fantasy setting and have the characters speak with such flippant, slangy language. The use of the word "noshing" is an example of this (as in the elves were noshing on moss).
I also just didn't like the characters. Theli especially. Nothing that woman did made any sense or represented her as competent or interesting.
I also just didn't like the characters. Theli especially. Nothing that woman did made any sense or represented her as competent or interesting.
September 13, 2023
2.5 stars
I don't remember why I got this book on my kindle. Maybe it was free or on sale. I have tried this writer before, years ago, and wasn't impressed. I didn't change my mind with this one, although it was a decent fantasy novel. Sort-of. It could've been even better if it was shorter. The narrative was so dense with extraneous stuff, pages and pages of verbal dross, it was hard to wade through. If I was this book's editor, I could've chopped off at least a third of the text, without sacrificing anything important in the story. I don't think this author will feature prominently in my future reading.
I don't remember why I got this book on my kindle. Maybe it was free or on sale. I have tried this writer before, years ago, and wasn't impressed. I didn't change my mind with this one, although it was a decent fantasy novel. Sort-of. It could've been even better if it was shorter. The narrative was so dense with extraneous stuff, pages and pages of verbal dross, it was hard to wade through. If I was this book's editor, I could've chopped off at least a third of the text, without sacrificing anything important in the story. I don't think this author will feature prominently in my future reading.
Read
June 4, 2022Just silly. a little too much focus on sex
March 18, 2022
The Elf Tangent is a stand-alone fantasy novel set in a world not connected with any of Buroker’s many earlier worlds. It’s a low-tech, (almost) non-magic world where human kingdoms occupy one part of the continent and elves another, which is about as much as the reader learns about it.
Aldari is a princess who is sent to the neighbouring kingdom to marry a prince there to gain her kingdom an ally against another kingdom. She’s not entirely happy to leave her family behind, but she knows her duty and isn’t about to rebel. She already is a rebel of sorts to her father’s views, as she is a scholar of some renown under a secret pen name. Only the name isn’t as secret as she thought. The elves have a need for her special skills and so they kidnap her en route to her wedding.
Leading the elves is Captain Hawk, who is determined to save his people from what is essentially a zombie infestation, elves turning into mindless killers. To do that, he needs an access to a laboratory that caused the plague, but it’s protected by puzzles that only Aldari can solve.
The plot is kind of simple, but the road to the happy ending is perilous. During many attacks and hardships, through mutual rescues and facing foes together, Aldari and Hawk grow to care for each other. So, instead of fleeing at every chance—which would’ve been dangerous anyway—Aldari decides to help him voluntarily.
This was pitched as a fantasy romance, but it’s very, very light on romance. Not even at the end are feelings brought up, and there’s nary a kiss. Romance is more a garnish, and a way to explain why Aldari would help her kidnappers. Aldari and Hawk are both a bit bland—the side characters are much more interesting—and they only come to life during action scenes.
Good thing, then, that the book is heavy on action. There’s constantly something going on, swordfights and pirates, zombie elves or plots against Aldari and Hawk. The pace is fast, and the events kept me reading until small hours. It’s a good book, but if you’re looking for great emotions, this isn’t for you. Friends of good, solid high fantasy will like it though.
Aldari is a princess who is sent to the neighbouring kingdom to marry a prince there to gain her kingdom an ally against another kingdom. She’s not entirely happy to leave her family behind, but she knows her duty and isn’t about to rebel. She already is a rebel of sorts to her father’s views, as she is a scholar of some renown under a secret pen name. Only the name isn’t as secret as she thought. The elves have a need for her special skills and so they kidnap her en route to her wedding.
Leading the elves is Captain Hawk, who is determined to save his people from what is essentially a zombie infestation, elves turning into mindless killers. To do that, he needs an access to a laboratory that caused the plague, but it’s protected by puzzles that only Aldari can solve.
The plot is kind of simple, but the road to the happy ending is perilous. During many attacks and hardships, through mutual rescues and facing foes together, Aldari and Hawk grow to care for each other. So, instead of fleeing at every chance—which would’ve been dangerous anyway—Aldari decides to help him voluntarily.
This was pitched as a fantasy romance, but it’s very, very light on romance. Not even at the end are feelings brought up, and there’s nary a kiss. Romance is more a garnish, and a way to explain why Aldari would help her kidnappers. Aldari and Hawk are both a bit bland—the side characters are much more interesting—and they only come to life during action scenes.
Good thing, then, that the book is heavy on action. There’s constantly something going on, swordfights and pirates, zombie elves or plots against Aldari and Hawk. The pace is fast, and the events kept me reading until small hours. It’s a good book, but if you’re looking for great emotions, this isn’t for you. Friends of good, solid high fantasy will like it though.
Read
January 6, 2024I really liked Buroker's urban fantasy series (Death Before Dragons) and had high hopes this would be just as good. It wasn't. It started off well enough, but Aldari and her bodyguard act more like teenage girls than women in their 20s. The more I've read, the more I don't want to read, so I'm calling it quits at 35%.
June 17, 2022
2 1/2. it was nice and exciting but probably for me it's not a time to read romance, even fantasy romance. the fantasy part was mostly, because elves were involved, it really was a adventure/romance novel and more ya i think. nicely written and a novella still right now for me not a right choice.
January 30, 2024
The pacing was weird. The first half is slowish, then the second half feels really rushed. Might have been better as a duology instead of just one book. It was alright.
March 26, 2022
As always, Ms Buroker has provided me with a great read. It's unlike her to release a standalone but I was very pleased and would not complain if she decided to continue such a thing. I really enjoyed this, the world we entered was so much fun and our cast of characters were entertaining, to say the least. I loved Aldari and Hawk's relationship, I just wish more had come from it in the end. I enjoyed myself thoroughly nonetheless.
March 28, 2022
Devoured
Absolutely delightful. The ending had me grinning from ear to ear. A complete story that has great characters and a compelling MC. The premise of the princess being kidnapped not because she’s a princess, but because she’s a secret genius publishing under a pen name, is well executed. A perfect mount of witty banter adds charm. 👍👍👍
Absolutely delightful. The ending had me grinning from ear to ear. A complete story that has great characters and a compelling MC. The premise of the princess being kidnapped not because she’s a princess, but because she’s a secret genius publishing under a pen name, is well executed. A perfect mount of witty banter adds charm. 👍👍👍
March 22, 2022
Bloody hell, I loved this book. I adored Aldari and Hawk. It was just the thing I needed in my life now and I have no doubt whatsoevet that I will read it multiple times again.
January 14, 2024
I enjoy Lindsay Buroker's books and got this one in audio as well. The narrator Vivienne Leheny is awesome and fits Lindsay Buroker's books so well. The Elf Tangent is a standalone fantasy romance book with a human princess who is interested in economics and an elf warrior. They meet when he kidnaps he on her way to her political arranged marriage as his people need her help. Slowly they develop feelings along the way as he becomes a protector and friend instead of her captor.
I enjoyed this book. It was fun to read about this fantasy world and see how the characters handled the problems. I did have some issues with some parts of the plot and at times decisions the characters made and acted just felt a bit off. I also wasn't a fan of the kidnap plot set up, even though it sort of made sense. And didn't really care for the zombie-like twist to the story. I also felt the book was a bit on the long side and could be a bit slow in parts.
There was a reveal I had predicted pretty early on in the story, although at least it made sense why Aldari didn't figure it out sooner and I appreciated the lack of drama when it came to light and how Aldari was understanding. While the world building is pretty limited, just enough to set the stage for the story, I did enjoy learning more about the elves and their society as the book progresses. Despite these issues I mostly still enjoyed the book. I liked seeing things progress and how things play out.
My favorite part of this book is probably the romance and the banter between the two of them. The ending wraps up the plot neatly and one thing felt a bit easy, but I still thought it was a good ending. Although I would've loved an epilogue of some sort to clarify what is next for the couple.
I liked how while Aldari was a princess she's interested in books and especially economics, puzzles and mathematics. She's also very dutiful and determined to marry a prince she had never met to help her people get an alliance they need to hold the empire at bay. While I admired her dedication to her country, people and duty, I had wished at times she was a bit more conflicted about this all. Not only because she develops feelings for Hawk, but also because it just sounded a bit off how this country would only help them if they got their virgin bride. I would've liked a few more of her inner thoughts about it all, but she mostly just focused on how it was her duty and didn't think of it further.
Hawk is a bit mysterious at first, he's a great fighter and leads the mercenaries who kidnap Aldari. I appreciated how he seemed conflicted about kidnapping her and only did it because he felt he had no other choice. Although it did bother me a bit why they didn't just ask first, there's a reason for it, but it felt a tad weak. I liked how there's more to him than it seems at first and as he and Aldari grow closer he tells her more about himself. he's very dedicated to his duty and want to help his people and is willing to do almost anything for that goal. I liked seeing him soften up and open up to Aldari.
I really liked the romance between these two. It's a very slow burn romance that progresses throughout the book and very sweet in tone with just a few kisses toward the end. I liked how they banter from the start and I find Lindsay Buroker always writes banter very well. I liked seeing them grow closer and share more about themselves. I was rooting for them even though there didn't seem to be a way for them to be together. I liked how things got resolved, although I wished there was a glimpse of their future.
To summarize: This was a solid standalone fantasy romance book. I liked the narrator who fits Lindsay Buroker's books really well in my opinion. The story was interesting, but the romance was my favorite part. I had some small issues with a few parts of the story, there were some character actions I didn't like and didn't really care for the kidnapping theme as well as the zombie-like theme. I also thought the book felt a bit long and the pacing a bit slow in some parts. Despite that I still enjoyed this book. I liked both Aldari and Hawk, they are both interesting characters who care a lot about their duty and people. They have some great banter and I liked seeing them grow closer. It's a slow burn sweet romance. I also liked learning more about the elves throughout the book. I liked the ending and how things wrapped up, but would've loved to see an epilogue with a glimpse of the couple's future.
I enjoyed this book. It was fun to read about this fantasy world and see how the characters handled the problems. I did have some issues with some parts of the plot and at times decisions the characters made and acted just felt a bit off. I also wasn't a fan of the kidnap plot set up, even though it sort of made sense. And didn't really care for the zombie-like twist to the story. I also felt the book was a bit on the long side and could be a bit slow in parts.
There was a reveal I had predicted pretty early on in the story, although at least it made sense why Aldari didn't figure it out sooner and I appreciated the lack of drama when it came to light and how Aldari was understanding. While the world building is pretty limited, just enough to set the stage for the story, I did enjoy learning more about the elves and their society as the book progresses. Despite these issues I mostly still enjoyed the book. I liked seeing things progress and how things play out.
My favorite part of this book is probably the romance and the banter between the two of them. The ending wraps up the plot neatly and one thing felt a bit easy, but I still thought it was a good ending. Although I would've loved an epilogue of some sort to clarify what is next for the couple.
I liked how while Aldari was a princess she's interested in books and especially economics, puzzles and mathematics. She's also very dutiful and determined to marry a prince she had never met to help her people get an alliance they need to hold the empire at bay. While I admired her dedication to her country, people and duty, I had wished at times she was a bit more conflicted about this all. Not only because she develops feelings for Hawk, but also because it just sounded a bit off how this country would only help them if they got their virgin bride. I would've liked a few more of her inner thoughts about it all, but she mostly just focused on how it was her duty and didn't think of it further.
Hawk is a bit mysterious at first, he's a great fighter and leads the mercenaries who kidnap Aldari. I appreciated how he seemed conflicted about kidnapping her and only did it because he felt he had no other choice. Although it did bother me a bit why they didn't just ask first, there's a reason for it, but it felt a tad weak. I liked how there's more to him than it seems at first and as he and Aldari grow closer he tells her more about himself. he's very dedicated to his duty and want to help his people and is willing to do almost anything for that goal. I liked seeing him soften up and open up to Aldari.
I really liked the romance between these two. It's a very slow burn romance that progresses throughout the book and very sweet in tone with just a few kisses toward the end. I liked how they banter from the start and I find Lindsay Buroker always writes banter very well. I liked seeing them grow closer and share more about themselves. I was rooting for them even though there didn't seem to be a way for them to be together. I liked how things got resolved, although I wished there was a glimpse of their future.
To summarize: This was a solid standalone fantasy romance book. I liked the narrator who fits Lindsay Buroker's books really well in my opinion. The story was interesting, but the romance was my favorite part. I had some small issues with a few parts of the story, there were some character actions I didn't like and didn't really care for the kidnapping theme as well as the zombie-like theme. I also thought the book felt a bit long and the pacing a bit slow in some parts. Despite that I still enjoyed this book. I liked both Aldari and Hawk, they are both interesting characters who care a lot about their duty and people. They have some great banter and I liked seeing them grow closer. It's a slow burn sweet romance. I also liked learning more about the elves throughout the book. I liked the ending and how things wrapped up, but would've loved to see an epilogue with a glimpse of the couple's future.
January 7, 2023
3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
Nice, light fantasy with a little romance thrown in.
Princess Aldari is betrothed to a neighboring prince, whom she’s never met, in order to align the two kingdoms. Aldari’s homeland is at risk of being invaded by another neighboring empire and the only solution is to marry her off.
Her father hires elven mercenaries to ensure her safe passage but along the way she is “rerouted” (read:kidnapped) by the elves. They need her help in solving a complicated puzzle which in turn would help the elf kingdom bring peace back to lands after centuries of fighting with zombie monsters.
Aldari is not your typical damsel princess. She’s clever and bookish. It’s refreshing that she’s kidnapped because her of her reputation for intelligence and gift for solving puzzles. Of course, she would have to fall in love with her kidnapper, who’s really quite charming (and SPOILER….he’s the younger elf prince of his kingdom).
The battle scenes were well written with a few tense situations.
Would I read the author again? I just might.
Nice, light fantasy with a little romance thrown in.
Princess Aldari is betrothed to a neighboring prince, whom she’s never met, in order to align the two kingdoms. Aldari’s homeland is at risk of being invaded by another neighboring empire and the only solution is to marry her off.
Her father hires elven mercenaries to ensure her safe passage but along the way she is “rerouted” (read:kidnapped) by the elves. They need her help in solving a complicated puzzle which in turn would help the elf kingdom bring peace back to lands after centuries of fighting with zombie monsters.
Aldari is not your typical damsel princess. She’s clever and bookish. It’s refreshing that she’s kidnapped because her of her reputation for intelligence and gift for solving puzzles. Of course, she would have to fall in love with her kidnapper, who’s really quite charming (and SPOILER….he’s the younger elf prince of his kingdom).
The battle scenes were well written with a few tense situations.
Would I read the author again? I just might.
April 19, 2023
3.5/5.0
GAH! I sat down and wrote a long review giving all my thoughts - pouring them out on the page, spending time, thought and effort. Then suddenly, out of nowhere, the little review box dropped and, POOF! No more. No words, no thoughts. And, I’m too annoyed (sorry) to start all over from scratch. So you get the basics:
I liked the story. I enjoyed the heroine(Aldari) but thought she should have had more backbone considering she is a princess. It drove me crazy that she never stood up for herself. I hated Thea. Her character just didn’t make sense for a bodyguard. She came across as horribly selfish, and raced off without thinking, putting both her and Aldari in more danger than not. Plus, her personality was a complete downer. Who would EVER choose her as a princess’ bodyguard?!? LOVED Hawk. Great character!
There… maybe this way was best after all, cause you don’t have to read my yammering. :)
GAH! I sat down and wrote a long review giving all my thoughts - pouring them out on the page, spending time, thought and effort. Then suddenly, out of nowhere, the little review box dropped and, POOF! No more. No words, no thoughts. And, I’m too annoyed (sorry) to start all over from scratch. So you get the basics:
I liked the story. I enjoyed the heroine(Aldari) but thought she should have had more backbone considering she is a princess. It drove me crazy that she never stood up for herself. I hated Thea. Her character just didn’t make sense for a bodyguard. She came across as horribly selfish, and raced off without thinking, putting both her and Aldari in more danger than not. Plus, her personality was a complete downer. Who would EVER choose her as a princess’ bodyguard?!? LOVED Hawk. Great character!
There… maybe this way was best after all, cause you don’t have to read my yammering. :)
June 4, 2022
This was a fun and unique story that was a pleasure to read!
In a nutshell, it was about a plucky academic human princess kidnapped by elves to help save their country from mutant elven zombies through her ability to solve puzzles, and falls for her kidnapper in the process! Really, what is not to love about this!!
I love when I find an adult fantasy with romance that actually puts an effort into the story, and this particular story was so creative and fun! I mean common, mutant elven zombies and a math nerd, SO GREAT!!! Plus, I like that the heroine, while still not a damsel's personality, is able to save the day without all of a sudden developing powers or combat skills in the blink of an eye, but instead USES HER BRAIN!
In fact, I would say all of the characters in this book were excellent! I LOVED Hawk's character and he pulled off the bad-ass, protective and supportive hero so well! But her female guard, Theli, may actually be my favourite character, she was freaking hilarious!!
A note of the romance, this was a SLOW burn, and while there is some talk surrounding sex, it was pretty non-specific and overall is a pretty clean romance, which I can respect even though I personally would have liked a smutty scene or two!!
In a nutshell, it was about a plucky academic human princess kidnapped by elves to help save their country from mutant elven zombies through her ability to solve puzzles, and falls for her kidnapper in the process! Really, what is not to love about this!!
I love when I find an adult fantasy with romance that actually puts an effort into the story, and this particular story was so creative and fun! I mean common, mutant elven zombies and a math nerd, SO GREAT!!! Plus, I like that the heroine, while still not a damsel's personality, is able to save the day without all of a sudden developing powers or combat skills in the blink of an eye, but instead USES HER BRAIN!
In fact, I would say all of the characters in this book were excellent! I LOVED Hawk's character and he pulled off the bad-ass, protective and supportive hero so well! But her female guard, Theli, may actually be my favourite character, she was freaking hilarious!!
A note of the romance, this was a SLOW burn, and while there is some talk surrounding sex, it was pretty non-specific and overall is a pretty clean romance, which I can respect even though I personally would have liked a smutty scene or two!!
May 30, 2022
Super fun read! Fantasy adventure with a romance through line. The pair fall for each other based on compatibility more so than attraction, which is refreshing. There’s the usual Buroker humor, no “adult” language (or very little), and a low steam/spice level (which is also refreshing!) The narrator was great as usual, too. Looking forward to the sequel!
December 9, 2024
Certainly a unique little story- with math and economics and the "Twisted" (zombies)!
Our heroine is promised to another county in an arranged marriage and is kidnapped along the way by the elves to help them solve a little zombie problem that has bee plaguing their people for CENTURIES.
This book read a little YA on the first few pages with the banter between Aldari and Theli in the library so I stopped reading the book to come back weeks later. And for some reason I read it differently this time- and it was very enjoyable. I realize now that what I was missing in my other series was humor. When that is missing from a well written book, for me it falls flat. Humor gives it that extra spark of fun. This had good humor, not laugh out loud but enough to spark the story for me.
Banter with Theli:
“Why don’t you just stab me through the heart with your logic and kill me here?”
“Have I mentioned how delightful it is that you’re always implicating me in your hypothetical deaths?”
Banter with Hawk:
Setvik sneered, pointed at Hawk’s crotch, said something curt, and stalked back toward the camp. “He says the mercenaries are ready to go,” Hawk said.
“Are you sure? It sounded… cruder.”
“There were embellishments."
I enjoyed Hawk and Aldari was a strong and smart heroine, good combo, and THANK you baby jesus that this was a standalone story and not 5 books in the making! I got worried after 70% and we still didn't have a solution and I have to say, the ending was a bit of a rush trying to pack all that amazing action and puzzles into the last 10% of the book. Why make it so hard?
All in all, an enjoyable read if you like elves :)
Our heroine is promised to another county in an arranged marriage and is kidnapped along the way by the elves to help them solve a little zombie problem that has bee plaguing their people for CENTURIES.
This book read a little YA on the first few pages with the banter between Aldari and Theli in the library so I stopped reading the book to come back weeks later. And for some reason I read it differently this time- and it was very enjoyable. I realize now that what I was missing in my other series was humor. When that is missing from a well written book, for me it falls flat. Humor gives it that extra spark of fun. This had good humor, not laugh out loud but enough to spark the story for me.
Banter with Theli:
“Why don’t you just stab me through the heart with your logic and kill me here?”
“Have I mentioned how delightful it is that you’re always implicating me in your hypothetical deaths?”
Banter with Hawk:
Setvik sneered, pointed at Hawk’s crotch, said something curt, and stalked back toward the camp. “He says the mercenaries are ready to go,” Hawk said.
“Are you sure? It sounded… cruder.”
“There were embellishments."
I enjoyed Hawk and Aldari was a strong and smart heroine, good combo, and THANK you baby jesus that this was a standalone story and not 5 books in the making! I got worried after 70% and we still didn't have a solution and I have to say, the ending was a bit of a rush trying to pack all that amazing action and puzzles into the last 10% of the book. Why make it so hard?
All in all, an enjoyable read if you like elves :)
June 12, 2022
3.5 stars
A lot of the journey felt lengthy, and some parts felt rushed.
A lot of the journey felt lengthy, and some parts felt rushed.
March 28, 2022
ah yes human girl who has never had any experience with elves suddenly knows every single thing about them and can solve all their problems
idk this tried to be fbaa and it wasn’t fbaa
idk this tried to be fbaa and it wasn’t fbaa
April 7, 2022
Clearly in the minority for this one - Truly struggled to get through this
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