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Rogue X Ara #1
The Last Storm
Ara Starrin’s entire life has been a lie.
Hidden in the shadow of her controlling father, General Evander of Auryna, Ara has never tasted true freedom. For most of her life, she’s been locked away in his estate as he is determined to protect her from the bloodthirsty Fae across the border.
But as her twenty-sixth birthday comes and goes, he decides it's time for her to marry, against her wishes and completely unbeknownst to her.
Ara’s fate is sealed the moment he announces her engagement.
Rogue Draki’s entire life has been a painful truth.
Raised at the hands of his father, the merciless king of Ravaryn, Rogue has never tasted an ounce of kindness. Now that his father is dead, the crown has been thrust upon him, and it is his responsibility to save his people from the wrath of Auryna.
It is for that reason he crosses the border into Auryna to spy on the court in the Capitol—for secrets, leverage, anything.
Rogue’s fate is sealed the moment he lays eyes on Ara Starrin.
Hidden in the shadow of her controlling father, General Evander of Auryna, Ara has never tasted true freedom. For most of her life, she’s been locked away in his estate as he is determined to protect her from the bloodthirsty Fae across the border.
But as her twenty-sixth birthday comes and goes, he decides it's time for her to marry, against her wishes and completely unbeknownst to her.
Ara’s fate is sealed the moment he announces her engagement.
Rogue Draki’s entire life has been a painful truth.
Raised at the hands of his father, the merciless king of Ravaryn, Rogue has never tasted an ounce of kindness. Now that his father is dead, the crown has been thrust upon him, and it is his responsibility to save his people from the wrath of Auryna.
It is for that reason he crosses the border into Auryna to spy on the court in the Capitol—for secrets, leverage, anything.
Rogue’s fate is sealed the moment he lays eyes on Ara Starrin.
Unknown Binding
First published November 12, 2022
2798 people are currently reading
36315 people want to read
About the author
J.D. Linton
7 books610 followersJD Linton is the debut author of The Last Storm, book 1 in the Rogue x Ara series.
She's married to her high school sweetheart and a mother of one. She enjoys reading and writing spicy fantasy romance, and as with most writing mamas, she’s also a midnight writer—up all day with her real baby and up all night with her fictional babies.
When not writing, you can find her reading, making a million tiktoks, or at the park with her son.
Writing has truly changed her life, and she’s even more thankful for the incredible community it brought with it.
She's married to her high school sweetheart and a mother of one. She enjoys reading and writing spicy fantasy romance, and as with most writing mamas, she’s also a midnight writer—up all day with her real baby and up all night with her fictional babies.
When not writing, you can find her reading, making a million tiktoks, or at the park with her son.
Writing has truly changed her life, and she’s even more thankful for the incredible community it brought with it.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 995 reviews
November 17, 2022
I have a few thoughts on this one. I have stopped reading at about 37% and this was forcing myself to continue to see if it improves, as I really wanted to like this. There is a lot that I liked, but the issues were deal breakers for me.
I wish there was more building between Rogue and Ara, the romance began pretty much immediately between them and that isn't my cup of tea. As a reader, I like enemies to lovers or even friends to lovers, to have more history before the spice kicks up. They need to know more about one another, their characteristics, or even have more dialogue and interactions together prior to the heat kicking up. This didn't happen here and I'm struggling to vibe with them as I have yet to see them engage enough to really feel much for them.
The plot itself is interesting, but I also find that there are a lot of plot holes and things that need to be fleshed out. There is so much information being told to you, rather than shown, and there are things being explained too lengthy that don't matter and it also removes the beauty of imagination.
As a reader, it feels too forced with the 'mate', 'bond' and 'claiming'. There is not enough lore, and the parts where there is lore, it is fed to you quite simply and it also has the questions answered within pages. When something is added to the plot, within paragraphs she has already resolved it or progressed it rather than allowing room for it to simmer in the story and gradually progress. For example, Ara sends a letter to her mother and by the next few paragraphs she has her response. I would have loved the suspense of wondering if her mother was okay, or if she would reply at all. There could have been more things worked with there.
Another example at the beginning, she meets her mother who is waiting by the door and then without any description of the environment she's somehow already down the stairs and entering another room. You didn't know she was exiting the scene or that there was things happening, and this happens a lot.
I guess what I am trying to explain is that there is not much in the way of environment building. I'm all for not overly describing, because sometimes it is not necessary and I understand that, however I feel there is more editing needed as there is not much picturing of multiple scenes throughout the book as far as I have read up to.
Scenes feel rushed, yet I feel like it all is slowed down when it comes to Rogue and Ara together. I would have loved more importance and focus on the plot, in addition to the spice.
Perhaps things warm up and it all gets flowing later on in the book, but for now, I'm putting it aside because I just feel that it is not for me. I love the plot ideas, and that's why I feel it's a shame overall - but I do know many people have loved this story so far, just not for me. This story holds amazing promise. With more editing taken, I truly do think this story could be amazing.
I wish there was more building between Rogue and Ara, the romance began pretty much immediately between them and that isn't my cup of tea. As a reader, I like enemies to lovers or even friends to lovers, to have more history before the spice kicks up. They need to know more about one another, their characteristics, or even have more dialogue and interactions together prior to the heat kicking up. This didn't happen here and I'm struggling to vibe with them as I have yet to see them engage enough to really feel much for them.
The plot itself is interesting, but I also find that there are a lot of plot holes and things that need to be fleshed out. There is so much information being told to you, rather than shown, and there are things being explained too lengthy that don't matter and it also removes the beauty of imagination.
As a reader, it feels too forced with the 'mate', 'bond' and 'claiming'. There is not enough lore, and the parts where there is lore, it is fed to you quite simply and it also has the questions answered within pages. When something is added to the plot, within paragraphs she has already resolved it or progressed it rather than allowing room for it to simmer in the story and gradually progress. For example, Ara sends a letter to her mother and by the next few paragraphs she has her response. I would have loved the suspense of wondering if her mother was okay, or if she would reply at all. There could have been more things worked with there.
Another example at the beginning, she meets her mother who is waiting by the door and then without any description of the environment she's somehow already down the stairs and entering another room. You didn't know she was exiting the scene or that there was things happening, and this happens a lot.
I guess what I am trying to explain is that there is not much in the way of environment building. I'm all for not overly describing, because sometimes it is not necessary and I understand that, however I feel there is more editing needed as there is not much picturing of multiple scenes throughout the book as far as I have read up to.
Scenes feel rushed, yet I feel like it all is slowed down when it comes to Rogue and Ara together. I would have loved more importance and focus on the plot, in addition to the spice.
Perhaps things warm up and it all gets flowing later on in the book, but for now, I'm putting it aside because I just feel that it is not for me. I love the plot ideas, and that's why I feel it's a shame overall - but I do know many people have loved this story so far, just not for me. This story holds amazing promise. With more editing taken, I truly do think this story could be amazing.
October 25, 2022
Plot ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice 🌶️🌶️.5
Romance 💘💘💘
Vibes ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Dual 1st person POV - Ara (26) & Rogue (39 - but looks mid-20s: they can live hundreds of years so this isn't that large of a gap as it could've been which I heavily appreciate lol)
Tropes: enemies to lovers, fae/human wars (deep hatred for each other), shifters (dragons- MMC can only partial shift with wings), one horse, one bed, touch her and die, found family, abduction turned to freedom
The Last Storm is the debut novel from JD Linton and let me tell you, you guys NEED to read this. The plot was engaging and the editing was was amazing (especially for a debut novel). Our FMC, Ara, is stuck in her gilded cage longing for a life outside of her small town. She uses her books to escape and live vicariously through the pages (honestly, relatable). After her father announces her betrothal to her childhood friend (to whom she has no romantic feelings for), Ara tumbles unknowingly into a desperate plot trying to stop the humans from slaughtering the Fae.
As one can expect from an enemies to lovers / kidnapper/captive romance, Ara fights her attraction and lust towards our MMC, Rogue (the King of the Fae), for as long as she can. Upon seeing Ara for the first time, Rogue is instantly aware that she is his fated mate (not really a spoiler). Since she is the General's only daughter, he plans to abduct her and use her as leverage to stop the brutality. During Ara's time in Rogue's captivity, their banter and chemistry continue to rise until they finally boil over and come together (quite literally, and many times I may add 😉).
Here's what I LOVED:
- Rogue continuously seeks advice from his elders and deeply respects their opinions and life experience and tries to implement their recommendations
- Rogue makes many mistakes in the beginning but we see him actively work on not repeating them as the book progresses. The level of self-awareness and his ability to change his behavior was impressive
- The magic system is intricate and we have only scraped the surface. As the series continues and Ara progresses in her powers, I'm sure we'll get to see more of this. I absolutely LOVE the messaging system that is used in this book.
- Ara's struggles are so human and so raw. She is experiencing so much guilt and pain and hurt and getting to see her work through each of these emotions is inspiring. Especially as her and Rogue get closer and she learns she can lean on him as well, that she is not alone.
- While this is the start of a series, there is NO cliffhanger! There's a bit of a teaser of something major that is going to happen at the start of the next book, but it's not a cliffhanger in the sense that we aren't sure if someone is going to live or die or if they'll be separated. For that, I am very thankful! This book was so much fun that I will definitely be returning to book 2, even if it takes several months (or longer since this is an indie author) to publish!
- Lastly, the cover is GORGEOUS! And I love the title!
I can't wait to share my highlights once this is published. For now, I'll copy a few below so you can have a little taste of the author's writing and the world she's cultivated. 😊
Top Highlights from The Last Storm
On days like this, when my heart was heavy and my mind clouded, I resorted to books— to escape, to forget, to find freedom where I had none.
If I were to marry him, my face would always be turned to the window, searching for more, and if not that, I would be a shell of the person I am now.
I stepped back to admire her, throbbing at the sight. She was the most beautiful woman I had ever seen. To ever exist. Nothing, no one, had ever deserved to be worshiped more. All men should be made to kneel before her. But she would have to settle for me.
The taste of her met my tongue as my scent merged with hers, forever branding her. Mine. I licked the wound. Hers. Completely and utterly hers.
I didn’t claim her in ownership. I claimed her as my one. Devoted myself to one. With that mark, my body and soul were bound to her. I would never be with anyone else, emotionally or physically. It would be her or no one, until my last breath.
“Scream my name. Let everyone know who I belong to.”
I had never really cared about the weather before, but now, clear skies meant everything to me, and I was grateful to see another calm morning.
“There will never be another woman for me.” He paused. “Ever.” I stilled at his words. “What… Why?” “This”— his thumb slid down across the mark—“ is a symbol of… surrender. I know you believe that it was my claim upon you, but it wasn’t. It never was. I bound my body and soul to you, little storm.”
“I also know that it is more than this tiny, insignificant mark on your skin that binds me to you. It’s you. All of you. Your strength and resilience. Your determination to endure no matter what fate throws at you. Your love for love and stories and hope. You are entirely the opposite of everything that I am and I would gladly wear your shackles if it meant I could have you.”
My mate. Mine. And then everything shifted and I understood. I understood everything. The surrender. The deep, soul-craving longing. Bound. I was bound to him. Body and soul. Entirely his. “I would’ve waited forever,” he whispered back, understanding.
Seriously, everyone.. add this to your TBR. Releases Nov 12!!
*ARC received for honest review*
Spice 🌶️🌶️.5
Romance 💘💘💘
Vibes ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Dual 1st person POV - Ara (26) & Rogue (39 - but looks mid-20s: they can live hundreds of years so this isn't that large of a gap as it could've been which I heavily appreciate lol)
Tropes: enemies to lovers, fae/human wars (deep hatred for each other), shifters (dragons- MMC can only partial shift with wings), one horse, one bed, touch her and die, found family, abduction turned to freedom
The Last Storm is the debut novel from JD Linton and let me tell you, you guys NEED to read this. The plot was engaging and the editing was was amazing (especially for a debut novel). Our FMC, Ara, is stuck in her gilded cage longing for a life outside of her small town. She uses her books to escape and live vicariously through the pages (honestly, relatable). After her father announces her betrothal to her childhood friend (to whom she has no romantic feelings for), Ara tumbles unknowingly into a desperate plot trying to stop the humans from slaughtering the Fae.
As one can expect from an enemies to lovers / kidnapper/captive romance, Ara fights her attraction and lust towards our MMC, Rogue (the King of the Fae), for as long as she can. Upon seeing Ara for the first time, Rogue is instantly aware that she is his fated mate (not really a spoiler). Since she is the General's only daughter, he plans to abduct her and use her as leverage to stop the brutality. During Ara's time in Rogue's captivity, their banter and chemistry continue to rise until they finally boil over and come together (quite literally, and many times I may add 😉).
Here's what I LOVED:
- Rogue continuously seeks advice from his elders and deeply respects their opinions and life experience and tries to implement their recommendations
- Rogue makes many mistakes in the beginning but we see him actively work on not repeating them as the book progresses. The level of self-awareness and his ability to change his behavior was impressive
- The magic system is intricate and we have only scraped the surface. As the series continues and Ara progresses in her powers, I'm sure we'll get to see more of this. I absolutely LOVE the messaging system that is used in this book.
- Ara's struggles are so human and so raw. She is experiencing so much guilt and pain and hurt and getting to see her work through each of these emotions is inspiring. Especially as her and Rogue get closer and she learns she can lean on him as well, that she is not alone.
- While this is the start of a series, there is NO cliffhanger! There's a bit of a teaser of something major that is going to happen at the start of the next book, but it's not a cliffhanger in the sense that we aren't sure if someone is going to live or die or if they'll be separated. For that, I am very thankful! This book was so much fun that I will definitely be returning to book 2, even if it takes several months (or longer since this is an indie author) to publish!
- Lastly, the cover is GORGEOUS! And I love the title!
I can't wait to share my highlights once this is published. For now, I'll copy a few below so you can have a little taste of the author's writing and the world she's cultivated. 😊
Top Highlights from The Last Storm
On days like this, when my heart was heavy and my mind clouded, I resorted to books— to escape, to forget, to find freedom where I had none.
If I were to marry him, my face would always be turned to the window, searching for more, and if not that, I would be a shell of the person I am now.
I stepped back to admire her, throbbing at the sight. She was the most beautiful woman I had ever seen. To ever exist. Nothing, no one, had ever deserved to be worshiped more. All men should be made to kneel before her. But she would have to settle for me.
The taste of her met my tongue as my scent merged with hers, forever branding her. Mine. I licked the wound. Hers. Completely and utterly hers.
I didn’t claim her in ownership. I claimed her as my one. Devoted myself to one. With that mark, my body and soul were bound to her. I would never be with anyone else, emotionally or physically. It would be her or no one, until my last breath.
“Scream my name. Let everyone know who I belong to.”
I had never really cared about the weather before, but now, clear skies meant everything to me, and I was grateful to see another calm morning.
“There will never be another woman for me.” He paused. “Ever.” I stilled at his words. “What… Why?” “This”— his thumb slid down across the mark—“ is a symbol of… surrender. I know you believe that it was my claim upon you, but it wasn’t. It never was. I bound my body and soul to you, little storm.”
“I also know that it is more than this tiny, insignificant mark on your skin that binds me to you. It’s you. All of you. Your strength and resilience. Your determination to endure no matter what fate throws at you. Your love for love and stories and hope. You are entirely the opposite of everything that I am and I would gladly wear your shackles if it meant I could have you.”
My mate. Mine. And then everything shifted and I understood. I understood everything. The surrender. The deep, soul-craving longing. Bound. I was bound to him. Body and soul. Entirely his. “I would’ve waited forever,” he whispered back, understanding.
Seriously, everyone.. add this to your TBR. Releases Nov 12!!
*ARC received for honest review*
November 23, 2022
Rating: ⭐️⭐️.75/5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
FBAA vibes but make it fae and less fleshed out. There was just something lacking in the plot overall, and in the romance in general. The “big bad” reveal felt lacklustre, especially considering their character had no development whatsoever or any lines if I’m remembering correctly so it was difficult to be worried about them. As I was reading, I constantly just had the sense that something was missing and that was a feeling I couldn’t shake.
I didn’t really feel like there was any genuine connection between the MMC and the FMC at all other than blinding lust which was lowkey really boring. I even found the spicy scenes kindy cringey and meh to the point where I skipped two of them towards the later part of the book… that almost never happens to me when I’m reading so I think that says a lot.
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
FBAA vibes but make it fae and less fleshed out. There was just something lacking in the plot overall, and in the romance in general. The “big bad” reveal felt lacklustre, especially considering their character had no development whatsoever or any lines if I’m remembering correctly so it was difficult to be worried about them. As I was reading, I constantly just had the sense that something was missing and that was a feeling I couldn’t shake.
I didn’t really feel like there was any genuine connection between the MMC and the FMC at all other than blinding lust which was lowkey really boring. I even found the spicy scenes kindy cringey and meh to the point where I skipped two of them towards the later part of the book… that almost never happens to me when I’m reading so I think that says a lot.
November 26, 2022
DNF at 35%
Characters lack depth.
Writing is juvenile and world building is non existent.
Characters lack depth.
Writing is juvenile and world building is non existent.
February 9, 2023
DNF @ 47%
I am just going to lay out my greatest grievance about this book right from the top.
Ready?
Ara is 26 years old.
Twenty six years old.
TWENTY SIX YEARS OLD!!
This grown ass woman had to be the most irritating, whiny, petulant, and astoundingly stupid character I’ve read in a long time! Seriously if they told us she was 16 I’d still think she was too immature.
Between her outrageously stupid decision making, bouts of crying, and physically attacking the MMC every chance she could get, I have had enough. Somewhere in all of this childishness, she and the one-note MMC (Rogue) managed to have truly unsexy sex, immediately followed by another tantrum. Which led to another cycle of : sexy moment, tantrum, violence, sleep, wake up, tantrum, sexy moment, violence, crying. Oh my GAHHHD I just couldn’t take anymore.
The plot could have been interesting but it just felt like not enough world building was done. We don’t know anything about the fae, or the humans for that matter. Maybe that gets explained in the last half but I couldn’t get past how terrible Ara was.
I am just going to lay out my greatest grievance about this book right from the top.
Ready?
Ara is 26 years old.
Twenty six years old.
TWENTY SIX YEARS OLD!!
This grown ass woman had to be the most irritating, whiny, petulant, and astoundingly stupid character I’ve read in a long time! Seriously if they told us she was 16 I’d still think she was too immature.
Between her outrageously stupid decision making, bouts of crying, and physically attacking the MMC every chance she could get, I have had enough. Somewhere in all of this childishness, she and the one-note MMC (Rogue) managed to have truly unsexy sex, immediately followed by another tantrum. Which led to another cycle of : sexy moment, tantrum, violence, sleep, wake up, tantrum, sexy moment, violence, crying. Oh my GAHHHD I just couldn’t take anymore.
The plot could have been interesting but it just felt like not enough world building was done. We don’t know anything about the fae, or the humans for that matter. Maybe that gets explained in the last half but I couldn’t get past how terrible Ara was.
February 21, 2023
All the five star reviews are lying to you
August 21, 2023
this wasn't bad! but it also wasn't great. it was an easy, quick read, but i wasn't all that invested in the couple or the plotline really. romance was iffy for me. could just be the mood i'm in though!
December 27, 2022
Started ok, got worse. Couldn’t finish it. It’s always disappointing when authors think spice replaces the need for an actual plot. It also fills me with instant rage when the male refers to the female as ‘good little girl’ or ‘pretty girl’ in spicy bits. Why? Just no. There was no real development in the actual love story, I got to chapter 24.
Spoilers to follow: oh my mother was just killed by my not father, I’m so sad, giving him a bj will make me feel heaps better. Really? Nope. Not for me thanks
Spoilers to follow: oh my mother was just killed by my not father, I’m so sad, giving him a bj will make me feel heaps better. Really? Nope. Not for me thanks
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 7, 2023
Dnf @40%.
The FMC is beyond naive, she’s just an idiot.
She’s surprised by “betrayal” left and right when everything should be obvious. This feels like a very YA type thing - the “all the men in my life don’t respect me, I’m so different, yada, yada”
The romance is bleh - it’s forced with the mate bond - no actual chemistry and it’s instant essentially.
The MMC feels like a child, throwing tantrums and just an overall jackass.
The FMC is beyond naive, she’s just an idiot.
She’s surprised by “betrayal” left and right when everything should be obvious. This feels like a very YA type thing - the “all the men in my life don’t respect me, I’m so different, yada, yada”
The romance is bleh - it’s forced with the mate bond - no actual chemistry and it’s instant essentially.
The MMC feels like a child, throwing tantrums and just an overall jackass.
October 4, 2022
That moment you finish a book and immediately want to start the next one but then you remember that technically the first book isn’t even out yet.
Oh my word. That ending!!! The whole thing. I truly loved this story. I loved Ara and I loved Rogue. All of the characters were so layered and well-rounded. The world-building was great. I could even see this having a prequel story (or several) that I would kill to have.
I cannot wait for this series to continue and to see where it goes.
I had the privilege of beta-reading this story and these are my true thoughts.
Oh my word. That ending!!! The whole thing. I truly loved this story. I loved Ara and I loved Rogue. All of the characters were so layered and well-rounded. The world-building was great. I could even see this having a prequel story (or several) that I would kill to have.
I cannot wait for this series to continue and to see where it goes.
I had the privilege of beta-reading this story and these are my true thoughts.
February 23, 2023
Dnf at 75% I cannot continue the torture.
December 7, 2022
I’ve seen this book floating around back when the ARCs began to circulate, but I had the sixth sense it wouldn’t work for me and sadly, I was right.
For me, it is always more determinative of how I feel about the male lead than almost anything else, even the writing or plot mishaps. I can always forgive those, especially with debut authors, but it’s hard to ignore or overlook an idolized douchebag.(or as I like to call it, the rhysand syndrome) It’s not something I enjoy in general, so when Rogue waltzed in with his over-boost ego, prejudice and entitlement, I really wanted to NOPE out. I liked the guy for like the first two chapters until he opened his mouth and started to talk. From there it was downhill and didn’t stop until the end.
I wish I could say that at least Ara was better, but my girl’s naivete wasn’t even cute, she was just plain dumb.
This book actually reminded me a lot of The Sin of Saints, both in writing style/mistakes, and some plot and characterization. The writing was choppy, random scenes cut together to form chapters without a single transition between them. But I’m not sure how much would have it helped the story overall if it flows a little better. On top of this, as a romance book, the romance itself hardly made any sense beyond the fact that the two are mates. They have barely any chemistry that should act like the glue that holds the whole story together, without it, it feels a little lackluster.
Rating: ⭐.5
Smut Scale: 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
Heat Scale: 🔥.5
For me, it is always more determinative of how I feel about the male lead than almost anything else, even the writing or plot mishaps. I can always forgive those, especially with debut authors, but it’s hard to ignore or overlook an idolized douchebag.
I wish I could say that at least Ara was better, but my girl’s naivete wasn’t even cute, she was just plain dumb.
This book actually reminded me a lot of The Sin of Saints, both in writing style/mistakes, and some plot and characterization. The writing was choppy, random scenes cut together to form chapters without a single transition between them. But I’m not sure how much would have it helped the story overall if it flows a little better. On top of this, as a romance book, the romance itself hardly made any sense beyond the fact that the two are mates. They have barely any chemistry that should act like the glue that holds the whole story together, without it, it feels a little lackluster.
Rating: ⭐.5
Smut Scale: 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
Heat Scale: 🔥.5
Read
December 18, 2023Claps for Rogues first response to Ara having a fiance to burn his house to the ground. Love that for him.
DNF at 30%.
DNF at 30%.
May 6, 2024
Christ almighty. 😮💨 For a book that had probably 10 sex scenes in it, the majority of the story was written in a way that came off quite juvenile. Our main characters are 26 and 39 years old, yet they act way younger than they actually are. They are both selfish, impulsive, have poor emotional temperament, and can't make a good decision to save their lives. It's as if their frontal lobes aren't fully formed yet... They were both constantly throwing tantrums, too, whether it be partaking in arson, throwing daggers at each other, or choking others out with their bare hands. They were both unlikeable and lacked depth. Why is it so hard to find fantasy books with characters in their late 20s-30s that have appropriately matched maturity levels? For the love of gawwwddd.
Their relationship honestly gave me the ick, and anytime they started getting intimate it came off uncomfortably nonconsensual because of the "fated mate" bond, or whatever. The MMC had a literal boner from chapter one through the end🙄 and he just kept saying "I know you want me as much as I want you." Like, bitch, maybe she doesn't?!! Fuck you. Leave her be, she's just trying to eat her damn pancakes!🥞 It was horn-dog city up in this bitch, and not in a good way. Hormones were clearly raging.
Also, Linton was trying extra hard to recreate daddy Rhysand... But failed immensely. The MMC is basically a carbon copy Illyrian from ACOTAR, minus the charming personality and good sense of humor. Sensitive wings and all. Except twist! They are dragon wings, not bat boy wings.
I finished the book. However, it felt like dragging bare feet across nails. The story had a solid plot, but it just wasn't executed well. Big reveals were discovered through dialogue, which I didn't love. The book was also almost too fast-paced. We jumped from one big reveal to the next to the next. The characters barely had enough time to absorb what was going on, let alone me. Also, the world-building was essentially nonexistent. No, thank you.
⭐/5
Their relationship honestly gave me the ick, and anytime they started getting intimate it came off uncomfortably nonconsensual because of the "fated mate" bond, or whatever. The MMC had a literal boner from chapter one through the end🙄 and he just kept saying "I know you want me as much as I want you." Like, bitch, maybe she doesn't?!! Fuck you. Leave her be, she's just trying to eat her damn pancakes!🥞 It was horn-dog city up in this bitch, and not in a good way. Hormones were clearly raging.
Also, Linton was trying extra hard to recreate daddy Rhysand... But failed immensely. The MMC is basically a carbon copy Illyrian from ACOTAR, minus the charming personality and good sense of humor. Sensitive wings and all. Except twist! They are dragon wings, not bat boy wings.
I finished the book. However, it felt like dragging bare feet across nails. The story had a solid plot, but it just wasn't executed well. Big reveals were discovered through dialogue, which I didn't love. The book was also almost too fast-paced. We jumped from one big reveal to the next to the next. The characters barely had enough time to absorb what was going on, let alone me. Also, the world-building was essentially nonexistent. No, thank you.
⭐/5
September 22, 2023
I wanted to like this book SO BADLY, but I can’t even finish it. The writing is just so… bizarre. So many “big reveals” were delivered in the oddest way — just casually dropped in through dialogue. There is way too much “telling” and not enough hidden in context for the reader to find out before a “big reveal” moment.
there was basically no build up between MFC and MMC, so I didn’t even find the sex scenes hot at all. Also the MMC is toxic and unbearable.
there was basically no build up between MFC and MMC, so I didn’t even find the sex scenes hot at all. Also the MMC is toxic and unbearable.
December 18, 2023
If I had to use one word to describe this book it would be: shallow. Character development was non-existent, interpersonal relationships were suddenly just there, and we had to care about a series of side characters both the FMC and we as readers have seen maybe 3 times, plot holes galore, and rogue assumptions made to drive the plot had me absolutely LOLing the closer this book neared it’s end. Oh someone died: it must have been murder and it must have been for this and this reason, and the murderer must be this guy. Proof? Circumstantial evidence? Real evidence? Ppffffff we don’t need that. We have a very circumspect theory already and it works just fine. The spy that lives in this castle, which we know about, whom we know has incentive and a foothold where the person was actually killed, nooooo it can’t be them… Here I, the reviewer, have shown more thought to this murder and possible murderer than any of the characters in this book. They just ASSUMED a bunch of things, stated it as truth, and went on their merry way. HOW!?!??? And this happens all the time in this book in multiple situations.
From the very first chapter you are thrown into this world, things are explained briefly and everything remains very surface and therefore you are not sucked into this world. This extends to the aforementioned character development, interpersonal relations, and world building. The FMC Ara and MMC Rogue (what a fucking name) are fated mates but don’t like each other. The book tries to go for an enemies to lovers vibe and does it like this: Ara: “I don’t like you” and Ara flees the castle. Rogue: chases Ara, catches up to her, they exchange 3 sentences, they fuck. SHE WAS JUST ESCAPING HIM AND NOW SHE LETS HIM DICK HER DOWN!?!?! Talk about a budding romance. And truthfully, this is the extent of the entire development of their relationship. Truly riveting.
Another example: Ara is thinking about what would happen if she leaves the castle and goes back home: “but I won’t see Iona anymore, nor Doran and whatever the other guy’s name was.” Ara turns morose and reflective of all the relationships she has built here. She has literally had 2 short “good morning” conversations with these people. MAKE IT MAKE SENSE.
I feel like this was the first book for this author, or at least I hope so, because there was so much room for improvement. I would suggest actual conversations and interaction between your characters, some world building rather than: oh btw we are nearing the end of the book but here’s this new threat that comes out of nowhere and I won’t explain how I know about it or where it came from (even though it’s very essence would render me oblivious to its existence) but it’s really real! I promise.
Sigh… the premise is cool, everything I love in a fantasy romance, and I guess I liked some parts? If I lowered my standards. Which I did, since I finished it. I guess that’s a positive. I don’t know? I enjoyed (or annoyed) it enough to finish it so there had to be something keeping me reading. If I find out what it was I’ll let you know…
From the very first chapter you are thrown into this world, things are explained briefly and everything remains very surface and therefore you are not sucked into this world. This extends to the aforementioned character development, interpersonal relations, and world building. The FMC Ara and MMC Rogue (what a fucking name) are fated mates but don’t like each other. The book tries to go for an enemies to lovers vibe and does it like this: Ara: “I don’t like you” and Ara flees the castle. Rogue: chases Ara, catches up to her, they exchange 3 sentences, they fuck. SHE WAS JUST ESCAPING HIM AND NOW SHE LETS HIM DICK HER DOWN!?!?! Talk about a budding romance. And truthfully, this is the extent of the entire development of their relationship. Truly riveting.
Another example: Ara is thinking about what would happen if she leaves the castle and goes back home: “but I won’t see Iona anymore, nor Doran and whatever the other guy’s name was.” Ara turns morose and reflective of all the relationships she has built here. She has literally had 2 short “good morning” conversations with these people. MAKE IT MAKE SENSE.
I feel like this was the first book for this author, or at least I hope so, because there was so much room for improvement. I would suggest actual conversations and interaction between your characters, some world building rather than: oh btw we are nearing the end of the book but here’s this new threat that comes out of nowhere and I won’t explain how I know about it or where it came from (even though it’s very essence would render me oblivious to its existence) but it’s really real! I promise.
Sigh… the premise is cool, everything I love in a fantasy romance, and I guess I liked some parts? If I lowered my standards. Which I did, since I finished it. I guess that’s a positive. I don’t know? I enjoyed (or annoyed) it enough to finish it so there had to be something keeping me reading. If I find out what it was I’ll let you know…
September 22, 2023
This book had a lot potential, but even tho the writing and the flow of the plot were decent, it lacked something for me personally. The plot was very fast paced and throughout more than a half of the book it was more telling than showing. We got a step by step of what happened, no foreshadowing, no guessing, which made the story less intriguing. The reveals happened very quickly and it didn’t leave me interested enough. Although I will say that some plot twists were definitely fun and a little surprising (I’m looking at you T).
Most word building parts were told in a monologue or a dialogue way and it just felt forced at some points. I feel like the second part of the book the pacing got much better and the reveals finally happened after you had some time to think on them, which appealed to me more as I could ponder on some of the characters and situations myself, instead of having it answered very quickly.
As for the characters, unfortunately some of their actions lacked logic (f.e. Ara being supposedly scared of Fae yet befriending most of them very quickly) and they weren’t fleshed out well. I didn’t get to know them in a larger scale other than what role they served in the plot. Ara and Rogue… I personally missed the connection there. I wanted way more than what was given, as for the first half of the book these two didn’t even speak to each other. For me to enjoy spice in a book there has to be an emotional connection as well. So while the spice might be well written, I couldn’t see why these two should really be together other than the bond.
Overall, it wasn’t a bad book. I still enjoyed my time with it, the writing was decent and I will definitely pick up the second book as the ending left me with some questions, but I’m hoping we get MORE. More foreshadowing, more depth in the characters, more connection between the MMC and FMC, more showing than telling
EDIT: someone just liked this reminding me of this book and just wanted to update that I actually DNFed the series. Not enough good things about the first to keep me excited, I’m good not finishing it
Most word building parts were told in a monologue or a dialogue way and it just felt forced at some points. I feel like the second part of the book the pacing got much better and the reveals finally happened after you had some time to think on them, which appealed to me more as I could ponder on some of the characters and situations myself, instead of having it answered very quickly.
As for the characters, unfortunately some of their actions lacked logic (f.e. Ara being supposedly scared of Fae yet befriending most of them very quickly) and they weren’t fleshed out well. I didn’t get to know them in a larger scale other than what role they served in the plot. Ara and Rogue… I personally missed the connection there. I wanted way more than what was given, as for the first half of the book these two didn’t even speak to each other. For me to enjoy spice in a book there has to be an emotional connection as well. So while the spice might be well written, I couldn’t see why these two should really be together other than the bond.
Overall, it wasn’t a bad book. I still enjoyed my time with it, the writing was decent and I will definitely pick up the second book as the ending left me with some questions, but I’m hoping we get MORE. More foreshadowing, more depth in the characters, more connection between the MMC and FMC, more showing than telling
EDIT: someone just liked this reminding me of this book and just wanted to update that I actually DNFed the series. Not enough good things about the first to keep me excited, I’m good not finishing it
October 24, 2022
Rating: 4 ✨, might become a 4.5, but not 100% sure yet...
Let me start off with thanking the author for an eARC opportunity for this book. Like always, this book review will be completely honest.
Okay, first of all, THAT ending! I saw some of the plot twists in this book coming, but the ending, I can honestly say that I had no idea this book would end like that; and I LOVE IT. Also, when I mean that I saw some plot twists coming, I don't mean it in a bad way. There was foreshadowing throughout the book that was executed wonderfully, so it build them all up beautifully.
Now, although this book was somewhat fast paced, it still felt a bit slow for me in the beginning. However, it is understandable since it is the beginning of a series, so it makes sense that the introduction would be slow. As soon as it started building up though, (at around 30%), it became everything I needed and more.
Rogue and Ara's relationship has become one of my favorites. And each of them as individuals have become favorites as well. I feel like their story was one of growth, not only individually, but with one another. Together, they strengthen one another, and find peace in a world that was only hurtful and cruel to them before meeting one another. This is definitely one of those, "I found my home in you", type of relationships and it made my heart happy cry as well.
If you love fated mates, this book is for you. If you love headstrong, badass heroines, this book is for you. If you love incredible world building, this book is for you. If you are a lover of the one room/one bed trope, this is ALSO for you. I am definitely looking forward to the second book, which comes out sometime next year. Please give this book a shot once it is out in the world! 💙
Let me start off with thanking the author for an eARC opportunity for this book. Like always, this book review will be completely honest.
Okay, first of all, THAT ending! I saw some of the plot twists in this book coming, but the ending, I can honestly say that I had no idea this book would end like that; and I LOVE IT. Also, when I mean that I saw some plot twists coming, I don't mean it in a bad way. There was foreshadowing throughout the book that was executed wonderfully, so it build them all up beautifully.
Now, although this book was somewhat fast paced, it still felt a bit slow for me in the beginning. However, it is understandable since it is the beginning of a series, so it makes sense that the introduction would be slow. As soon as it started building up though, (at around 30%), it became everything I needed and more.
Rogue and Ara's relationship has become one of my favorites. And each of them as individuals have become favorites as well. I feel like their story was one of growth, not only individually, but with one another. Together, they strengthen one another, and find peace in a world that was only hurtful and cruel to them before meeting one another. This is definitely one of those, "I found my home in you", type of relationships and it made my heart happy cry as well.
If you love fated mates, this book is for you. If you love headstrong, badass heroines, this book is for you. If you love incredible world building, this book is for you. If you are a lover of the one room/one bed trope, this is ALSO for you. I am definitely looking forward to the second book, which comes out sometime next year. Please give this book a shot once it is out in the world! 💙
October 20, 2022
This book I read In less than 7 hours. It was not only a “I cannot put down” read, this was one for the books. 5 stars is not nearly enough for the last storm. Without giving spoilers out I laughed, I cried. I felt such a deep connection with the story and the characters. It has twists that you won’t see coming and the story itself is absolutely incredible. I hate that I have to wait for a second book but after reading this I will be purchasing the hard copy for my collection of most loved books. The authors mind is a vastly wonderful place to be. ❤️ thanks Tik Tok for introducing me to my new favorite author.
March 9, 2024
I’ve once again been fooled by tik tok.
August 20, 2025
SO GOOD
September 18, 2023
I read this book in one sitting and am already planning to read it again!
The Last Storm is an amazing mix of Fae magic, secrets, and fates mates that hooks in in from page one.
We meet Ara who is the daughter of the general, and has been betrothed to her childhood best friend. Ara knows this is not what she wants from life and feels as though this would place her in a cage.
Enter Rogue, the perfect mysterious handsome Fae king who kidnaps Ara in an attempt to bring peace back to his kingdom.
Ara and Rogue have so much yummy steam between them that it is kindle melting!! While these two have feelings that begin to grow, they realize that those around them know more about the past than they realized.
There are twists and turns to this book you won’t see coming and it will leave you wanting more!!
There are books you read, that change you. They impact you on a level that leaves an impression on your soul, The Last Storm is one of those books for me. I was so invested in the characters and where they came from and couldn’t put this book down!!
The Last Storm is an amazing mix of Fae magic, secrets, and fates mates that hooks in in from page one.
We meet Ara who is the daughter of the general, and has been betrothed to her childhood best friend. Ara knows this is not what she wants from life and feels as though this would place her in a cage.
Enter Rogue, the perfect mysterious handsome Fae king who kidnaps Ara in an attempt to bring peace back to his kingdom.
Ara and Rogue have so much yummy steam between them that it is kindle melting!! While these two have feelings that begin to grow, they realize that those around them know more about the past than they realized.
There are twists and turns to this book you won’t see coming and it will leave you wanting more!!
There are books you read, that change you. They impact you on a level that leaves an impression on your soul, The Last Storm is one of those books for me. I was so invested in the characters and where they came from and couldn’t put this book down!!
October 25, 2022
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of The Last Storm and I am so happy that I did.
For her debut novel, J.D. knocked it out of the park. I absolutely loved this book.
The world building is done so well. You don’t get too much information thrown in your face right away. The pacing of the whole book is beautifully done.
AND THE MAIN CHARACTERS 🔥🔥 I fell so in love with Ara and Rogue the moment they both appeared. Their banter and tension is incredible. I’ve claimed them as my new book boyfriend and girlfriend.
I really loved the dual POV.
The spice was great and not rushed through.
The ending was an incredible twist and I INSTANTLY wished the second book was available.
As soon as The Last Draig is out next year, I will be devouring it immediately.
Also, this is one of the prettiest covers I’ve seen💙💙
For her debut novel, J.D. knocked it out of the park. I absolutely loved this book.
The world building is done so well. You don’t get too much information thrown in your face right away. The pacing of the whole book is beautifully done.
AND THE MAIN CHARACTERS 🔥🔥 I fell so in love with Ara and Rogue the moment they both appeared. Their banter and tension is incredible. I’ve claimed them as my new book boyfriend and girlfriend.
I really loved the dual POV.
The spice was great and not rushed through.
The ending was an incredible twist and I INSTANTLY wished the second book was available.
As soon as The Last Draig is out next year, I will be devouring it immediately.
Also, this is one of the prettiest covers I’ve seen💙💙
August 6, 2023
this took me almost a month to read, and i was so close to DNF but i pushed through, and for that it gets 3 stars
October 20, 2022
It has been such a true honor to be J.D Linton’s arc reader. With that being said this book is truly amazing! There are some books that are just stories and others like this one where you fall completely in love and connected to the story.
I love Rogue and Ara’s relationship. They are both stubborn. And the steamy scenes will have you glued in!
Trust me when I say this. You will not be disappointed. There will be parts in the story that you will not see coming. And just be ready for the cliffhanger it’s so good!
J.D Linton thank you so much for letting me be your arc reader. It has been a true honor and this book is amazing.
I love Rogue and Ara’s relationship. They are both stubborn. And the steamy scenes will have you glued in!
Trust me when I say this. You will not be disappointed. There will be parts in the story that you will not see coming. And just be ready for the cliffhanger it’s so good!
J.D Linton thank you so much for letting me be your arc reader. It has been a true honor and this book is amazing.
January 4, 2024
THAT CLIFFHANGER HAS ME SPRINTING TO READ BOOK TWO OMFG
Ok, alright, now that I have calmed down, I can give this a proper review. 3.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ but rounded up for Goodreads.
This story relies so heavily on its tropes, and although there is nothing wrong with that, it felt almost overbearing to me. It made the writing come across a little aggressive and less casual because everything hinges on these very specific factors and you’re reminded on nearly every single page, almost obnoxiously so. I didn’t mind it in the grand scheme, but I definitely noticed it and could see it annoying other readers.
This book is far from perfect but it could be a great introduction to fantasy for someone, as the writing is simple, the plot lines are clear, and the characters are really likable. It’s a little bit predictable, but I still enjoyed it.
Ok, alright, now that I have calmed down, I can give this a proper review. 3.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ but rounded up for Goodreads.
This story relies so heavily on its tropes, and although there is nothing wrong with that, it felt almost overbearing to me. It made the writing come across a little aggressive and less casual because everything hinges on these very specific factors and you’re reminded on nearly every single page, almost obnoxiously so. I didn’t mind it in the grand scheme, but I definitely noticed it and could see it annoying other readers.
This book is far from perfect but it could be a great introduction to fantasy for someone, as the writing is simple, the plot lines are clear, and the characters are really likable. It’s a little bit predictable, but I still enjoyed it.
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March 8, 2023March 3, 2023 - March 7, 2023
DNF @ 31%
I give up.
The FMC was so fucking stupid. And you’re really expect me to believe that the general’s ONLY daughter can sneak away from her tower so easily? And that their home isn’t heavily guarded? Really? 🙄
She’s being forced to marry a man she considered a friend. So… she proceeds to tear up and play the martyr. Doesn’t do shit. 🙄
Rogue kidnaps her and proceeds to GIVE HER HER OWN ROOM AT THE INN. This man is a professional idiot. You don’t think she’d, oh,I don’t know, try to escape????????? WHICH SHE DOES! 🙄
The writing was stilted and abrupt. Not for me.
The crying. Lord save me from crybaby heroines. “I got a splinter”. Cry. “I stubbed my toe”. Cry. “Daddy won’t listen to what I was”. Cry. “My kidnapped said something mean.”Tear up. Sob. Cry. Bitch will fill up one of the Great Lakes with her tears and I’m not sticking around to see it. 🙄🙄🙄🙄🙄🙄🙄✌️
DNF @ 31%
I give up.
The FMC was so fucking stupid. And you’re really expect me to believe that the general’s ONLY daughter can sneak away from her tower so easily? And that their home isn’t heavily guarded? Really? 🙄
She’s being forced to marry a man she considered a friend. So… she proceeds to tear up and play the martyr. Doesn’t do shit. 🙄
Rogue kidnaps her and proceeds to GIVE HER HER OWN ROOM AT THE INN. This man is a professional idiot. You don’t think she’d, oh,I don’t know, try to escape????????? WHICH SHE DOES! 🙄
The writing was stilted and abrupt. Not for me.
The crying. Lord save me from crybaby heroines. “I got a splinter”. Cry. “I stubbed my toe”. Cry. “Daddy won’t listen to what I was”. Cry. “My kidnapped said something mean.”Tear up. Sob. Cry. Bitch will fill up one of the Great Lakes with her tears and I’m not sticking around to see it. 🙄🙄🙄🙄🙄🙄🙄✌️
November 23, 2022
DNF
I could not finish this book.
The sheer stupidity of the characters was too ridiculous to continue reading the book.
The female MC got her mother killed bc she sent her a insecure letter into enemy territory that revealed the secrets of her paternity.
She has PTSD and mental health issues.
The male MC was written as an insecure PTSD victim who makes an insufficient king. He isn't strong, or confident, but suffers from mental health issues just like the FMC.
There is LGBT side romance that seems to happen in EVERY romance book. There needs to be a tag that says LGB romance since certain religions and cultures can't consume LGB entertainment.
I could not finish this book.
The sheer stupidity of the characters was too ridiculous to continue reading the book.
The female MC got her mother killed bc she sent her a insecure letter into enemy territory that revealed the secrets of her paternity.
She has PTSD and mental health issues.
The male MC was written as an insecure PTSD victim who makes an insufficient king. He isn't strong, or confident, but suffers from mental health issues just like the FMC.
There is LGBT side romance that seems to happen in EVERY romance book. There needs to be a tag that says LGB romance since certain religions and cultures can't consume LGB entertainment.
May 21, 2024
dnf at 41%
this was ass
i hated the writing style and every aspect of the book felt overdone and cliche. nothing surprising ever happened and i could guess every "twist" (if you could even call them that) from a mile away.
this one gets a firm pass from me.
this was ass
i hated the writing style and every aspect of the book felt overdone and cliche. nothing surprising ever happened and i could guess every "twist" (if you could even call them that) from a mile away.
this one gets a firm pass from me.
December 1, 2023
World system was cool, but the romance was too p*rn scene.
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