Harley has three goals—stay alive, avenge her brother’s death, and overthrow the traitorous king.
When Harley receives an invitation to the royal castle for her cousin’s birthday, she’s elated at the offer. As the queen’s niece, she’s expected to make an appearance, but this will also be her first time attending a formal function as a married woman. However, what starts as an elegant party quickly turns into a nightmare. One that flips Harley’s world upside down.
Ackley’s mission should have been simple—arrive in Melenia, submerse himself in battle, and retake the kingdom for his sister’s newly betrothed, the rightful king. Instead, he finds the land ravaged and a young woman who could be the key to his undoing. When forced to choose between family, honor, and love, he realizes all of his years training to be an assassin, knight, and prince never prepared him for this. Ackley always thought he’d die by the sword. But what he never realized was love could be the most dangerous weapon of all.
This is the first book in a new series by Jennifer Anne Davis. Filled with romance, battles, and espionage, this book will immerse you into the world of her previous books like you’ve never before imagined!
Jennifer Anne Davis is the bestselling, award-winning author of YA fantasy and NA paranormal romance. She graduated from the University of San Diego with a degree in English and a teaching credential. She lives in the San Diego area with her high school sweetheart-turned-husband and their rambunctious, spoiled GSP.
Her three adult children are in college and graduate school. When she’s not writing, Jennifer can be found reading, crocheting, or baking sourdough bread.
Jennifer has always loved writing stories where the stakes are high and the tension is even higher.
Awards: Cage of Deceit: Winner 2018 Kindle Book Awards The Key: Finalist 2014 USA Book Awards The Voice: Finalist 2014 Next Generation Indie Book Awards The Voice: Winner 2013 San Diego Book Awards
Female protagonist: A delicate fluff in form of a girl .... and that's it really... I saw nothing else in the character. oh also the character is such a dickhead that you might end up plugging out you hair. In the beginning chapter, she tells us that she gets locked up in a closet by her husband constantly but she never questions it... dickhead!*opera voice* The character has a phobia of harmless little animals... she's like ooooh! A mouse! somebody save me!! I might die!! *baby sounds* booo booo!
Male protagonist: ...Superman! Send him to a battle against 20 men and he won't even get a scar. While the lead female character was degraded into a fluff that couldn't even punch or kick, the lead character was the entity of "masculinity". The same old stereotype. In sum he was meh.
Male antagonist: He's the husband of the protagonist. he's such a one-dimensional character. he's depicted as a greedy, abusive, hating and disgusting creature that is there to serve as the Cinderella's stepmother replacement. He reminded me of Titanic's Caledon Hockley.
plot: 1)Female protagonist nags about her circumstances while doing nothing to change that. 2)Female protagonist nags and nags.... 3)Something ridiculous happens then female protagonist shits herself and runs away. 4)Female protagonist gets beaten, taken, almost raped... 5)the author "time-travel" to French Revolution and get the protagonist witness beheading of the royalties, the only thing the protagonist do is barf. 6)Female protagonist cries and cries... nags and nags... runs and runs... 7)The superman comes to her rescue... 8)The fluffy protagonist in awe with this barbie Ken. 9)A romance that reminded me of "The Office"'s love tension between Angela and Dwight.
Please! I don't know how this book was labeled as political, the politics in this stoy-book was a joke.
Ugh! So I've been looking forward to this book ever since I heard of its existance and I still ADORE my Assassin Prince😘😘😘,but I had a hard time liking Harley....she just kind of irritated me?? I will say she got a bit better by the end of the book, but out of all the MCs in this "world" she is my least favorite...maybe it's just because she's Ackley's love interest and I think he's too good for her-have to side with Gytha on this one- **no one's good enough for my boi!!!***😈 so yeah, I probably would have much preferred the book from only Ackley's POV ....or maybe Harley with someone else...😅☠
-Anywho! I still, of course, will be reading Sword of Desire when it releases😉.
Clean Rating 3.5/5 Warning: This one had a lot more content than previous books**** Content : Violence-you know, people gettin' their heads chopped off-😬😅☠, domestic violence-mostly reference-, attempted rape😑, thoughts of the "sexual" variety, and a fade to black scene 😳🤫😅.
I really enjoyed this book, so much so that I finished it in a day. That’s usually what happens whenever I pick up a Jennifer Anne Davis book. This book was full of action, adventure, and a little romance. It included characters from past books along with giving more explanation to something mentioned in a past book. I was like a giddy school girl when old characters came into play and I knew where they were headed off too.
However, you don’t have to have read past books to read this one. Jennifer does a great job of explaining what has happened to these characters’ in the past helping you to understand even though you haven’t read her previous books.
So next time you’re looking for a good book to read, choose this one.
It started off so strong! It had GOT vibes and literally after a couple chapters, it just went downhill and had the same tone as all of her other books.
Don't get me wrong, the books are okay, I'm just over them. It's literally the same story, with different characters. Also, Ackley was hella annoying in this book and I didn't like him at all.
I'm just going to call it, and stop reading books from this author. I keep getting disappointed.
I did not realize Ackley from Knights of Realm was getting his own series, but I'm here for it. Though I am sure I will miss Reid and Dexter because they were my favorite.
I knew I would enjoy this book because I nearly love all books by this author and it starred Ackley, one of my favorite characters from the Realm of Knights series.
Plot: We reunite with Idina, Owen, Gytha and Ackley, all characters from the Realm of the Knights series. This time we follow Ackley while he travels with Owen and Idina to their new homeland. There, Ackley meets Harley. They embark on a dangerous mission together to save the kingdom and their loved ones, but when betrayal comes from within, how far will they go?
Writing style: I nearly enjoy all of Jennifer's books, I think it's the combination of a nice plot, with fun characters, a good pace and it is all pretty lighthearted to read. Of course bad things happen, horrible things even yet I still always find myself entertained and enjoying the plot. The plot usually has a few twists to it and usually they are pretty predictable but that is what I like about these books. I always enjoy them, even if they aren't as brilliant as other books might be.
Characters: I have to say I really missed Reid and Dexter, especially Dexter who I've come to love. It was nice to read about Ackley and Idina again but I missed my main couple. Books with and about Ackley are always a great read for me, I personally really like the character. Harley was a good addition to and I love her character growth throughout the book.
Overall: There was a twist at the end which I think most of us saw coming but that is fine. I don't have to be surprised all of the time, sometimes I just want to enjoy a fun story with charismatic characters and a fluffy romance.
Not gonna lie, as soon as I heard Ackley (from the Knights of the Realm trilogy) was going to be the main character in his own series, I was already sold. What can I say? I love me some assassins.
What I did not expect was Harley's addition as a narrator, but it did not disappoint. Between the two of them, they have their own pasts and past traumas. For Harley, it's still very much a part of her present and is something Ackley has to constantly take under consideration. Which I'm glad to say that he does.
For the sake of clarity, there are mentions of domestic abuse. These are moments where the character discusses them or remembers them, but it does not go into detail regarding the acts themselves.
That said, the balance between Ackley and Harley was superb. Throughout the story, Ackley discovers his own vulnerabilities (hahahahaha!!) and Harley learns her own strength. It was honestly a pleasure to watch these two grow as people and learn as much about themselves as they do each other.
Now, as far as the plot goes, I was here for it. We've got nobility in hiding, backdoor deals, treason so thick you can't even wade through it, and the surgical precision of Ackley's knife cutting out new solutions for everyone. And for anyone who has read the Reign of Secrets series, you'll have fun interacting with familiar characters and pinpointing hinted at events.
All in all, this book is the beautiful start to a promising series and has the stellar cast to keep us entertained.
I'm not sure I could review this without spoilers but I will try my best! I guess I can talk about the main character Harley. I didn't really like her in the beginning. There was something that just didn't grab me but by the end, her character grew tremendously! She's definitely no Reid but I guess she'll be a good second lol. I love how there are so many things that were connected in this story. Every chapter I found my mouth hanging open . Throughout the entire book there were so many "No Way" moments. I was so deep into the book I didn't realize it was the last page until I turned it. This story is amazingly written. I cannot fathom how Mrs Davis' mind was able to create the world she has. I wanted to scream when I saw the next one is out in November. Miss Jennifer please get the next one out sooner. I need this like peanut butter needs jelly!
I loved this book so much! It picked up right where Realm of Knights ended. This book pulled me in page one and I did not put it down until I finished it. This is a story of romance, espionage, action, court intrigue, and suspense. The main female character is complex and witty and so emotionally resilient. The male character is dark, enigmatic and compassionate and brave. I loved the character dynamics and the romance in this story. I loved how I never really knew what was going to happen next. Jennifer has a way of telling her stories to where you feel like you’re there with the characters. I highly recommend this book to all fantasy and Ya fantasy readers. Jennifer remains my favorite YA author and this story cemented that truth even more.
Yay! Ackleys story! I was soo excited to pick this duology up. It did not disappoint!! I loved seeing this new world across the ocean from the Knights of the Realm trilogy. Where of course, we got to know Ackley pretty well. And I have to say, I could not be happier with how everything is turning out. And Harley! She is perfect for Ackley! I love that their relationship has so much tension and a tad of dislike at first. It’s an instant attraction but they are both so good at keeping their true selves way deep deep down and showing this facade to the world. They make such a unique and mysterious pair. It’s a lot of fun! The war elements are a bit dark. Beheadings, attempted rape, an abusive husband, etc. I think some of that could have been toned down a touch, but there’s wasn’t anything overly graphic. It does paint quite the picture of how bad conditions are in Melania. If Ackley didn’t bring his soldiers over, things would look dire indeed.
This is book 1 of 2 in the Reining Kingdoms duology. And takes place after the events of the Knights of the Realm trilogy. If you loved that series, you’re going to love this one! And bonus! The romance is not as slooow! Lol
Content: clean Romance: kissing, fade to black. Violence: moderate; war, beheadings, heads on spikes, attempted rape, abusive husband. While not graphic, it is a bit dark. Language: none.
dnf - the sexist atrocious language became too much. at first i accepted it bc the one saying it was a bad guy but then the HERO was being pathetic. called his female warrior companion strong and able to defend 'but in the end she's still a woman' wtf?! this is his least offensive remark btw
there is assault on each page. the timeline is confusing. skipping days on convenience. everything happened too quick. ugh. taking it off my heavy shelf.
Little atmosphere. No worldbuilding. It seems like a mere sequence of things that happen. I like the books of the other series. This one was to boring to finish.
Okay I actually give this story 3.5 ⭐️ Was it as good as the Knights of the Realm series? In my opinion, no
I read a review saying they didn’t like Harley and at first I was like why not? She’s been through a lot and is taking it very well I just don’t think she’s right for Ackley personally This has room to change though in the next book With that shock ending I think she’ll turn out to be just right for him The romance between them was good don’t get me wrong, but once they gave in to liking each other I got bored I LIKE A CHASE GIVE ME SLOW BURN im talkin 8 hours in the crockpot slow burn yall, ON LOW they just thought the other person was hot and was like ooooo why am I feeling like this It seems like infatuation and lust to me Not true love ESPECIALLY after Ackley being in LOVE with Reid. I like Reid better I won’t even lie to you You know what that’s not very nice I take that back even if it’s true BUT I will say that strength comes in many forms, as Ackley says in this It’s not fair to Reid or Harley to compare them to each other when they’re both so different This book teaches the lesson that a quiet and assuming woman has as much strength and power as one who knows how to wield a sword Don’t underestimate a woman PERIOD with that i will begin the next book! See you in the next review!!
I honestly don't know what to say about this book. I just know that i love Jennifer more and more with every book of hers i read.
And that ending? I always feel like i can predict what's gonna happen in her books until i actually don't! It's a beautiful story and i want MORE!!!!!
Also, Ackley. I never thought reading his POV would be so intriguing and feel so intimate. I had this image of him in Knights of the Realm. Him being crazy stupid, incredibly smart and sarcastically hilarious, i always wanted more. Now we have a series were he's the main character!! And we got to see how that brain of his works, why he's always prepared and ready to strike. And i just fell in love again.
And of course i fell for Harley as well, she one of the lowkey-strongest females I've read about. As Ackley says strength comes in different forms, and though she suffered most in this book, i loved seeing her overcome it all. And I'm gonna love seeing her character grow and become stronger and braver in the next books.
this is one of many fabtasy book I’ve got thru ebooks. all i can say is, it is worth reading. The FMC’s life is quite tragic, morbid i must say. It clearly describe how female was potrayed in early times, how female has no power over men and how we evolved now to protect ourselves. It is so amazing how she was build up from timid to a fighter craving for revenge.
The MMC is unique as well. a prince-assassin? That is not popular amongst noble and its like he was a pirate in the making. I loved how he gave the women power and in some degree, resprects them as a person. Don’t get me wrong with the chemistry and the romance. They have some moments too 🌶️🌶️ I love to go to the the next book at once just for me to see what will be the ending of thise duology. All in all, 3.5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️
P.S, I really hate a villain that is so power greedy and so morbid on how he chose to claim his power, beheading? So cruel. 🤬🤬🤬
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I really enjoyed the Knights of the Realm series, and seeing as this was Ackley’s story, I was really looking forward to it. Sadly, I only made it 11% in before I stopped. Detailed, described beheadings (that’s right, I said BEHEADINGS) are too much for me. I don’t want to imagine it or have the sounds described to me. The first one I had to just put my kindle down for the night, but the next day I reasoned that maybe the worst was over. Nope. Within another page, another family member was being beheaded. So, sadly that was the end of this one for me. Not sure if I’m going to try any of the other books by this author.
First book in a new series called Reigning Kingdoms. Like Ms. Davis’ other series, the book is a total suspenseful, adventurous delight. Long-standing questions are answered, while new questions surface. Many twists and turns, and quite a few surprises, to keep the reader interested and on the edge of their seat. I cannot wait for the next book in this series.
I love books were the hero and heroine have to go on a journey and fall for each other along the way. Harley was such a great heroine, having gone through an abusive marriage and coming out the other side stronger. I can’t wait to see what will happen next.
This book was incredible. I especially love how it connects two of the author's other series (Reign of Secrets and Knights of the Realm) together, as well. It was an exciting adventure and I'm waiting anxiously for the next one!
Wow, this was really bad. Reads as though written by a middle schooler. Also, what’s up with the names? Harley, and Lyle, and Hollis to name a few - and they’re all bad.
Hitting the ground running this book doesn't slow down for a minute. While the plot twists may have been predictable, it was very well laid out with foreshadowing and suspicion. With characters that have strong personalities, this book is heavily driven by the choices they make. More new-adult with fades-to-black instead of smut, but plenty of flirty banter.
I've been looking forward to Ackley's story or Idina's story since 2020 when I finished the Knights of the Realm series. I purposefully didn't re-read the description before I picked up Sword of Rage because sometimes book descriptions can give too much away. But if I'd re-read the description, I wouldn't have started this book so confused. I didn't remember Harley being Ackley's sister's name, but that's who I thought I was supposed to be reading about. So I was really confused when her family started getting slaughtered but they're all people I'd never heard of before.
I'm not sure Harley is the type of character that I imagined Ackley falling for. I didn't have anything against Harley exactly. In fact, my biggest issue was with the big mystery. How Harley couldn't put together who might have taken over the throne and been in league with those who slaughtered her family was beyond me. It was the easiest "mystery" I've been able to figure out that I don't even know if Jennifer Anne Davis was trying to hide it from the reader. But when something is so obvious to the reader it can be hard not to lose some respect for the characters when they don't also figure things out.
Ultimately, I find that I don't have much to say about Sword of Rage. It was good. I read it quickly. I want to keep reading and see what happens next. But I had some issues with the characters being obtuse when it came to the big mystery. Sword of Rage gets 3 Stars. Have you read Sword of Rage? What did you think? Let me know!
I hesitated starting Sword of Rage, not because I thought I wouldn’t like but because I wasn’t read to leave the Realm of Knights and Reid and Dexter. I wasn’t ready to sail across the ocean away from Axian and into Melenia. I wasn’t read to find out the fate of Owen’s family. And I wasn’t ready to meet Kerdan again but on the opposing side. But I did start Sword of Rage and I did finish reading it and it wrecked me, but in a good way. There is so much going on that I can’t possibly understand how the characters aren’t having a mental break down after every twist and turn.
The characters Jennifer Anne Davis has created has left me wanting more. I’m dreading the long long wait until November because I want the next book.
I love evetything about this book!!! The story line is enticing, exiting, funny and romantic!!! The
development of the characters are intrigueing and capturing. I would recommend this book to everyone!!!
Thank you Jennifer for writing amazing stories!!! All of her books are equally amazing!!! I love how she brought in characters from different series into this one spin off!!! Love it!!!!
I was so happy to see the connections made throughout this book to some of my favorite and most treasured characters! Thank you also for giving us a strong female who doesn’t wield a sword on a regular basis but is strong in many other ways. I think that’s very important. I absolutely love Harley. I loved this book and definitely recommend it!