What do you think?
Rate this book
Imperial Rand #3
Covenant of Queens
The sweeping saga of Rand continues to its gripping conclusion ...
As the battle for Rand escalates, Savannah tries to unravel the secrets of the past to enable her to understand the future. Soon it becomes a race against the clock to solve the mystery of the third moon and to find the site of the enemy's time passage.
Although Commander Pela has organized the armies into a fighting force, she is unprepared for the attack that destroys a port on the Wide Sea of Mists. The enemy has air-power and bombs, something she hadn't foreseen. With the help of Countess Gladofin of the House of Amarim and Queen Lilybeth of Beria, Pela desperately tries to devise a military strategy to defeat the enemy.
As the fate of the Rand hangs in the balance, the Covenant of Queens gathers to close the Time Gateway. And while Savannah searches for her roots, an evil nemesis appears who won't stop until she is dead.
Danger and betrayal, secrets and myths, and new lovers, are mixed into a melting pot of magic in this electrifying finale of the Rand trilogy.
As the battle for Rand escalates, Savannah tries to unravel the secrets of the past to enable her to understand the future. Soon it becomes a race against the clock to solve the mystery of the third moon and to find the site of the enemy's time passage.
Although Commander Pela has organized the armies into a fighting force, she is unprepared for the attack that destroys a port on the Wide Sea of Mists. The enemy has air-power and bombs, something she hadn't foreseen. With the help of Countess Gladofin of the House of Amarim and Queen Lilybeth of Beria, Pela desperately tries to devise a military strategy to defeat the enemy.
As the fate of the Rand hangs in the balance, the Covenant of Queens gathers to close the Time Gateway. And while Savannah searches for her roots, an evil nemesis appears who won't stop until she is dead.
Danger and betrayal, secrets and myths, and new lovers, are mixed into a melting pot of magic in this electrifying finale of the Rand trilogy.
578 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 9, 2022
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
September 23, 2022
I love every book of this series. So this one was also a wonderful read. The fantasy world of Rand is very well crafted and all MCs are lovely. Highly recommend. 5 stars are not enough.
And I’m looking forward to book four. 😃
And I’m looking forward to book four. 😃
September 11, 2022
A third (and final) installment sequel to Rand and The Forgotten Realms.
Now available on Kindle Unlimited.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0B...
An ARC was given to me by the Author for honest review.
This is an epic fantasy series that has been a joy to read. It incorporates everything you want in a Women Loving Women themed fantasy-fiction read - combining fantasy worlds, magics and mystical creatures, shapeshifters, and battles against an evil villain.
War is under-way in Rand, and all the Kingdoms and their Queens have their roles to play to defeat the Time Walkers, determined to destroy magic and cause division. There's a lot of action, and preparation for various battles across Rand, trying to strategize against the enemy. But there are still those moments of love and connection, for couples already established, and a new couple, too. Which is always lovely to see. I'm always a sucker for a romance, especially between strong powerful women.
But there's real moments of frustration too. It's hard to fight a war, and maintain a relationship. Especially when you're the Chosen One, and your spouse is a talented Warrior Captain in her own right. There's shapeshifting and magics, and lots to discover about the people and creatures of Rand, and all their histories too. Secrets that must be revealed.
It was such an impressive trilogy, and reminded me in the best ways of The Lord Of The Rings, but so much better because it's so very Sapphic and inclusive. I'd highly recommend it to lovers of fantasy fiction, like LoTR. Percy Jackson, The Chronicles of Narnia - and all those other similarly wonderful books that captivated our imaginations as young people.
Check it out on KU!
Now available on Kindle Unlimited.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0B...
An ARC was given to me by the Author for honest review.
This is an epic fantasy series that has been a joy to read. It incorporates everything you want in a Women Loving Women themed fantasy-fiction read - combining fantasy worlds, magics and mystical creatures, shapeshifters, and battles against an evil villain.
War is under-way in Rand, and all the Kingdoms and their Queens have their roles to play to defeat the Time Walkers, determined to destroy magic and cause division. There's a lot of action, and preparation for various battles across Rand, trying to strategize against the enemy. But there are still those moments of love and connection, for couples already established, and a new couple, too. Which is always lovely to see. I'm always a sucker for a romance, especially between strong powerful women.
But there's real moments of frustration too. It's hard to fight a war, and maintain a relationship. Especially when you're the Chosen One, and your spouse is a talented Warrior Captain in her own right. There's shapeshifting and magics, and lots to discover about the people and creatures of Rand, and all their histories too. Secrets that must be revealed.
It was such an impressive trilogy, and reminded me in the best ways of The Lord Of The Rings, but so much better because it's so very Sapphic and inclusive. I'd highly recommend it to lovers of fantasy fiction, like LoTR. Percy Jackson, The Chronicles of Narnia - and all those other similarly wonderful books that captivated our imaginations as young people.
Check it out on KU!
September 21, 2022
This book is the culmination of the epic tale of Rand, following "Rand" and "The Forgotten Realms".
Again I was spellbound, especially that the two other books were still fresh in my mind. If the previous books are unknown to you read them first, as I think that if you read this epic fantasy adventure one after the other the enjoyment will the greatest.
While Savannah is the central character in the storyline as the chosen one, with her romance with another woman and another lesbian couple as major characters in the first volume, some more romances between two major female characters are introduced, one each in both following books.
The romances are perfectly entwined with the action, each as important as the others, all of them very well written and as fascinating as believable.
Again I was spellbound, especially that the two other books were still fresh in my mind. If the previous books are unknown to you read them first, as I think that if you read this epic fantasy adventure one after the other the enjoyment will the greatest.
While Savannah is the central character in the storyline as the chosen one, with her romance with another woman and another lesbian couple as major characters in the first volume, some more romances between two major female characters are introduced, one each in both following books.
The romances are perfectly entwined with the action, each as important as the others, all of them very well written and as fascinating as believable.
January 22, 2024
5 Stars!
It is said that it only takes one try to be addicted to meth, therefore, the Rand trilogy could be considered meth by how addictive the whole story is.
The culmination of everything and everyone (or is it) in Rand. The author is just…. I am speechless, best I could describe her brain would be genius. The number of characters, creatures, monsters, magic and interwoven storylines is just…. the most brilliant fantasy I have read in a long time. I even tried to space out my reading of this trilogy with contemporary stories but I couldn’t fully enjoy the latter because I long to live among the queens and the chosen one. This world is highly addictive.
It is said that it only takes one try to be addicted to meth, therefore, the Rand trilogy could be considered meth by how addictive the whole story is.
The culmination of everything and everyone (or is it) in Rand. The author is just…. I am speechless, best I could describe her brain would be genius. The number of characters, creatures, monsters, magic and interwoven storylines is just…. the most brilliant fantasy I have read in a long time. I even tried to space out my reading of this trilogy with contemporary stories but I couldn’t fully enjoy the latter because I long to live among the queens and the chosen one. This world is highly addictive.
September 11, 2022
Great book. A real page-turner. Lots of twists, turns, and Oh Shit moments.
June 16, 2026
three stars for the smart and complicated world building of magic, and the side characters with actual personalities and lives which I appreciate, and i love the aura of mystery and I feel this is solely adventure and mystery, not romance, bc the romance in my own opinion is a tiny subplot, for it focused on the adventures more, which brings me to the question why is this labeled romance when in the first book, we get few scenes between savannah, and her love interest, and then boom 🤯🤯🤯 they're in love? and the second book drifts away from them and focuses on a different couple which I felt had more chemistry than the main couple, and even the love interest would go CHAPTERS without being mentioned and without Savannah even thinking of her or missing her like?! and that from the start made me want to stop reading, but I kept pushing bc the rating is very high, and towards the 20% of this book, the love interest still seems a stranger to me? like she's just a passerby to which we cross paths in VERY fleeting moments which was very odd, considering they're "bonded" but where? 🧐🧐🤓 bitch I can't seeeee
this is a good book but the romance wasn't it AT ALL
this is a good book but the romance wasn't it AT ALL
January 17, 2023
What a wonderfully thrilling conclusion to the trilogy! I was sucked into all that was going on to the point that I forgot I was supposed to be cooking (oops!) and had to read in front of the stove so I would remember to turn the food.
It is THAT gripping.
As I've said about the other two books, the worldbuilding is phenomenal, the characters are multi-layered and flawed and mostly complex, and there are sub-plots a-plenty.
The only question I had with the book? What's with that cover? It doesn't bring to mind any of the characters....and there were a lot.
Fans of Mercedes Lackey and/or Anne McCaffery would love this series. But you really do need to read them all in order, otherwise nothing is going to make sense.
It is THAT gripping.
As I've said about the other two books, the worldbuilding is phenomenal, the characters are multi-layered and flawed and mostly complex, and there are sub-plots a-plenty.
The only question I had with the book? What's with that cover? It doesn't bring to mind any of the characters....and there were a lot.
Fans of Mercedes Lackey and/or Anne McCaffery would love this series. But you really do need to read them all in order, otherwise nothing is going to make sense.
February 28, 2024
There was lots to love in this terrific series. I can't wait to read more from this author.
October 12, 2022
I hope it's not really the end, but if it is it went out with a bang! Super recommend!!
I cannot believe I almost missed the release! Y'all, does Silvia have a newsletter that I'm not aware of? Because I really don't like to be behind stories I'm dying to read the continuation. I saw #3 by chance on IHS.
Anyway, this was the kind of story that I love, the good people kicking the arse of the villains from the beginning to the very end! I could've done without that loss in one of the final chapters, but things considered, it wasn't that bad (it did hurt though). I really liked how things were all linked, silly things turned out to be important at some point and we got the answers for a lot of questions. If all were answered I couldn't tell, I have bad memory lmao, but I know the big, important ones were. Gotta do a re-read, I'm usually quite sharp when I don't have time to forget. I digress...
I hope we get a continuation not only because this universe is a really cool one and interesting, but because I felt we didn't get the chance to proper say our good-byes to some amazing characters; considering the cast is out of this world (pun intended haha), it was quite a few folks missing. But especially Esme, I felt she deserved a proper send off if we're never to see her again, she was amazing. Made me tear a bit with laugh.
And a marriage!!!!! For someone who doesn't want to marry I'm a sucker for fictional marriages. So I really want to witness the day Pela and Savannah will tie the knot and continue to be total bad-asses. And I'd love to have the chance to see these two developing their relationship with no war looming over their heads. Even if it's just a short or a novelette... *wink wink**hint hint*
I cannot believe I almost missed the release! Y'all, does Silvia have a newsletter that I'm not aware of? Because I really don't like to be behind stories I'm dying to read the continuation. I saw #3 by chance on IHS.
Anyway, this was the kind of story that I love, the good people kicking the arse of the villains from the beginning to the very end! I could've done without that loss in one of the final chapters, but things considered, it wasn't that bad (it did hurt though). I really liked how things were all linked, silly things turned out to be important at some point and we got the answers for a lot of questions. If all were answered I couldn't tell, I have bad memory lmao, but I know the big, important ones were. Gotta do a re-read, I'm usually quite sharp when I don't have time to forget. I digress...
I hope we get a continuation not only because this universe is a really cool one and interesting, but because I felt we didn't get the chance to proper say our good-byes to some amazing characters; considering the cast is out of this world (pun intended haha), it was quite a few folks missing. But especially Esme, I felt she deserved a proper send off if we're never to see her again, she was amazing. Made me tear a bit with laugh.
And a marriage!!!!! For someone who doesn't want to marry I'm a sucker for fictional marriages. So I really want to witness the day Pela and Savannah will tie the knot and continue to be total bad-asses. And I'd love to have the chance to see these two developing their relationship with no war looming over their heads. Even if it's just a short or a novelette... *wink wink**hint hint*
September 16, 2022
This is an amazing story!
I absolutely loved this trilogy. I hope the story of Rand lived on in future novels. If you javent read the first two books, do so right away!
I absolutely loved this trilogy. I hope the story of Rand lived on in future novels. If you javent read the first two books, do so right away!
September 21, 2022
A copy of the book was provided to Sapphic Book Club in exchange for an honest review.
This is the third, and I believe final, book in the Imperial Rand series, which follows Savannah, an archaeologist from our world, try to save Rand from time traveling invaders. This book picks up after the last book with Savannah and the Queens trying to figure out where the gate between past and present is located so the queens can shut it down.
I like that we briefly (I would have liked more time on this) got to see Pela and Savannah deal with the impact of having different roles in the upcoming war and how that effected their relationship. The continuation of the world building with the introduction of Lillybeth, the Warrior Queen.
I've thought a lot about my enjoyment of this series. The first book was offered to the club last year and I loved it. It reminded me of The Belgariad series, which was my first introduction to high fantasy, however some of the club members didn't take to it. They were valid reasons, and honestly some of them were the same reasons that I loved the book. Rand is a simpler world in where people are inherently good. The big battle is a classic good vs evil conflict with clear sides and minimally morally grey characters. There are times when a rich fantasy world that has parallels or commentary on real world issues, is perfect, but then there are times when I just want to escape. To go to a world that isn't marred by our failings and dark side, where characters can be good but also get what they need. Which is exactly what Rand provides. I know I will come back to this series, like I do with The Belgaraid, when I want to remember that a better world can exist.
I highly recommend this book if you had read the following 2 books. They need to be read in order. But if you enjoyed those you will enjoy this one. While I believe this is the end of the series I would love to spend more time in the world, the main conflict was wrapped up but there was a teaser of what could come, which I would love to read.
This is the third, and I believe final, book in the Imperial Rand series, which follows Savannah, an archaeologist from our world, try to save Rand from time traveling invaders. This book picks up after the last book with Savannah and the Queens trying to figure out where the gate between past and present is located so the queens can shut it down.
I like that we briefly (I would have liked more time on this) got to see Pela and Savannah deal with the impact of having different roles in the upcoming war and how that effected their relationship. The continuation of the world building with the introduction of Lillybeth, the Warrior Queen.
I've thought a lot about my enjoyment of this series. The first book was offered to the club last year and I loved it. It reminded me of The Belgariad series, which was my first introduction to high fantasy, however some of the club members didn't take to it. They were valid reasons, and honestly some of them were the same reasons that I loved the book. Rand is a simpler world in where people are inherently good. The big battle is a classic good vs evil conflict with clear sides and minimally morally grey characters. There are times when a rich fantasy world that has parallels or commentary on real world issues, is perfect, but then there are times when I just want to escape. To go to a world that isn't marred by our failings and dark side, where characters can be good but also get what they need. Which is exactly what Rand provides. I know I will come back to this series, like I do with The Belgaraid, when I want to remember that a better world can exist.
I highly recommend this book if you had read the following 2 books. They need to be read in order. But if you enjoyed those you will enjoy this one. While I believe this is the end of the series I would love to spend more time in the world, the main conflict was wrapped up but there was a teaser of what could come, which I would love to read.
September 25, 2023
Still really good, but not as great as the first two. My biggest complaint here is that the size of the cast is starting to buckle under its own weight. Shaw remains on-mission to introduce a new central romance, and this pushes characters like Fern, Val, Reagan and Jezzine off centre stage. In addition, we get Savannah's exploits and the movement of large armies (which tend to be characters in and off themselves). It's all a bit much. I ended up missing the easy banter of the core group, and I found it harder to bond with the new characters introduced here.
Even so, Shaw's writing remains on point- which means that this book is an absolute must-read if you've enjoyed the prequels. I am looking forward to the duology.
Even so, Shaw's writing remains on point- which means that this book is an absolute must-read if you've enjoyed the prequels. I am looking forward to the duology.
May 26, 2025
4.5 stars
Yes, Tamasin, I completely agree. This whole "city of the dead" could be a metaphor for a tree hollow.
This series continues to shine! We’ve moved to the coast now, and Savannah is making great strides in getting the Sea Folk to join the war effort after the brutal attack on the Berian Coast. This book had me breathless — it's like watching a fantastical movie unfold scene by scene.
Valeria is in hiding, now disguised as an elite guard while the Crows hunt her down. She's the key to closing the Circle of Sheda when the third moon rises. Currently in Arcadia, she’ll be heading to Kandemora soon, guided by Luna — straight into the lair of the Crevlins' twisted experiments.
Reagan, our enchantress, survived an attack by the Four Crows and finally found her power match. Still searching for love, though. And speaking of love, I'm rooting for Lilybeth (the queen) and Gladofin (guardian of nature). They deserve peace and each other. 🥹
We meet the Iriwari, a reclusive race of stargazing Sylphs who dwell in the high Zorian Alps — once a mighty Magical House lost to history. I love how the world keeps expanding without overwhelming the story. The level of lore here? Insane.
“It turned out it wasn’t even a city — it could be a hole in the ground for all she knew.”
Yes, Tamasin, I completely agree. This whole "city of the dead" could be a metaphor for a tree hollow.
Tamasin loves her wife so much 😭 — she's making double trips between kingdoms just to see her. It’s adorable (and yes, nauseatingly sweet). And Valeria’s whispered “I missed you”? Ugh. My heart.
The Crevlins are now using Skeldachs — lizard-like birds equipped with explosive sandal-bombs — for aerial attacks. But the Bramble Hawks can pick them off, and whistles confuse them. Smart countermeasures!
Savannah and Reagan have mind-walked inside two captured Crevlins and uncovered vital info before heading to the Sea of Mists. I was especially moved by this line:
There are so many war councils. I’m serious — these people have a brainstorming meeting every two days 😅 Savannah, Pela, Winston, Lilybeth, Gladofin, Mani, Tamasin — they’re all debating where the metaphorical “city of the dead” really is. The idea that it’s a living remnant of a civilization long thought extinct? Brilliant twist.
Reagan, Queen of the Great House of Falendore (a queen without subjects), is now helping the traumatized folk of Kandemora. So many of the women here are queens in their own right, and I love it.
Gladofin and Snow Pine (her horse 🐎) are kidnapped by wolves. Lilybeth, Olivine, and a small army rush in to rescue her, but Gladofin urges them not to — the magic binding her is ancient. Also, Olivine needs to stop interfering in my new OTP. Gladofin belongs with her pookie. Let her go, Olivine.
Savannah reaches the Sylphs in the Zolian Alps, medal tucked smartly into her bra 😂, only to get vague answers. But we now know the third moon will block out the sun for about six hours — crucial timing for what’s coming.
Big reveal: Savannah is a descendant of the great Sylph Oracle, Pharen. Cue goosebumps.
Now we’re on another side quest for the Blade of Yorn — the only weapon that can kill the Time Walkers. But meanwhile, I’m obsessed with Pela. Her Bogonia evacuation speech was everything:
“We’ll start the evacuation of Bogonia at first light… Exit quietly — no trumpets, no drums, no shouts. March to the North Cadiwine and set up camps. Destroy the bridges bar one. Let no enemy pass over it.”
YES, MA'AM. I’ll follow you anywhere.
Back to our slow-burn sapphic queens: Gladofin and Lilybeth hit a rocky patch post-Iriwari trip, but Lilybeth gives Gladofin a necklace of the Sacred Pearls of Nessalia, protecting her from black magic. We find out Gladofin might be part Nymph. The lore never stops!
The enemy was hiding in plain sight. The Crevlins overran the Valley of the Pipers. The Time Gateway has seven sides (not a circle), and all the queens must channel their power into Valeria during the eclipse. The final battle is tense and gutting.
Final arc updates:
Gladofin and Lilybeth get married 💍 Fern and Mezzanine plan a baby Grandmother Ronja dies, passing the mindwalker cloak to Savannah Hola and the librarian at the Keep are gone 💔Savannah has completed her first task as mindwalker. It’s been a little over a year since she arrived in Rand. And what a journey.
“The measure of intelligence is the ability to change.”
I adored this book. There were moments I almost stopped reading due to all the roadblocks the characters faced, but the writing was so rich, the characters so vivid, and the world-building unmatched.
I cannot wait to dive into The Shadow Makers, set in the same universe. Let’s goooo.
October 28, 2022
Book Three in the Rand series
In the Covenant of Queens you’re guaranteed magic, upon magic, upon magic.
Think of the most intricately woven tapestry you have ever laid eyes on and you might be halfway to the magnificent abundance of threads that this story contains. Pick a thread, any thread; they are all a spellbinding masterpiece.
Carrying on from book two (The Forgotten Realms), the war with the Crevlin is fast approaching with plenty still to do, not least uniting the various lands and people of Rand whilst locating the Crevlin’s elusive Time Gateway. Savannah as the Chosen One and wearer of the Circle of Sheda continues to be the main focal point of book three, now with a weighty ask upon her shoulders. Time is running out, for Savannah must unravel her own secrets and that of the royal bloodlines before the appearance of the third moon in Rand’s sky – an event which hasn’t happened for over two thousand years.
Meanwhile, whilst Savannah traverses Rand, readers are introduced to the latest romance between Queen Lilybeth of Beria and Countess Gladofin of the House of Amarim. At first glance an unlikely pairing given both are strong and independent women, and yet their burgeoning love and care for one another is seemingly inevitable.
Ultimately, what I love about this series and in particular this final book, is that the author keeps a fast and yet finely detailed pace throughout. There are more than a few surprises along the way, so much so, that upon closing the last page my first thought was, ‘Right, now I need to read all three books together to see that gigantic tapestry in all its multi-cultural, divine, glory’.
Covenant of Queens has a lot going on, but the story thrives because of that; think of it as a quest of sorts, with intricate moving parts or a high stakes chess game; only, one side is playing blind whilst they seek to unravel centuries old mysteries.
Silvia Shaw has created a truly enchanting and thrilling world and I have so thoroughly enjoyed discovering each and every thread of this story. In the final paragraphs the author leaves readers with a hint of hope for a future return to Rand. Fingers crossed!
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
In the Covenant of Queens you’re guaranteed magic, upon magic, upon magic.
Think of the most intricately woven tapestry you have ever laid eyes on and you might be halfway to the magnificent abundance of threads that this story contains. Pick a thread, any thread; they are all a spellbinding masterpiece.
Carrying on from book two (The Forgotten Realms), the war with the Crevlin is fast approaching with plenty still to do, not least uniting the various lands and people of Rand whilst locating the Crevlin’s elusive Time Gateway. Savannah as the Chosen One and wearer of the Circle of Sheda continues to be the main focal point of book three, now with a weighty ask upon her shoulders. Time is running out, for Savannah must unravel her own secrets and that of the royal bloodlines before the appearance of the third moon in Rand’s sky – an event which hasn’t happened for over two thousand years.
Meanwhile, whilst Savannah traverses Rand, readers are introduced to the latest romance between Queen Lilybeth of Beria and Countess Gladofin of the House of Amarim. At first glance an unlikely pairing given both are strong and independent women, and yet their burgeoning love and care for one another is seemingly inevitable.
Ultimately, what I love about this series and in particular this final book, is that the author keeps a fast and yet finely detailed pace throughout. There are more than a few surprises along the way, so much so, that upon closing the last page my first thought was, ‘Right, now I need to read all three books together to see that gigantic tapestry in all its multi-cultural, divine, glory’.
Covenant of Queens has a lot going on, but the story thrives because of that; think of it as a quest of sorts, with intricate moving parts or a high stakes chess game; only, one side is playing blind whilst they seek to unravel centuries old mysteries.
Silvia Shaw has created a truly enchanting and thrilling world and I have so thoroughly enjoyed discovering each and every thread of this story. In the final paragraphs the author leaves readers with a hint of hope for a future return to Rand. Fingers crossed!
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 28, 2023
Covenant of Queens by Sylvia Shaw is a thrilling, complex final tale to an absorbing trilogy. All the preparation of the previous two books leads up to a final war for the fate, and future, of Rand.
There are witches, telepathic horses that fly, demonic dogs, an ancient race that have hidden themselves away, mystifying hybrids, a surly commander and more royalty than one land should be able to hold. But Ms. Shaw brings all the characters, complete with their foibles, passions and insecurities together in a satisfying way that sucks you in and will not let you go until the last page.
I’m not sure if I was more drawn to the ancient library, the flying horses or the mystery of the amulet, but I can tell you that this book kept me up reading far past when I intended to shut the light off. This world needed a hero, and in the end, there were many of them. But each of them is so unique that you’ll have no problem keeping them straight in your head. (So to speak. This is a WLW fantasy novel, after all)
There is adventure here too. Different areas within Rand had their own beauty as well as challenges, just as parts of our own world do. Because of this, I found it easier to relate and fall in love with Rand. I mean, who wouldn’t want to live in a world that had mountains, forests, swamps and a sea with its very own water-dwelling monsters and shape shifting seals?
The author populated Rand with a staggeringly varied array of people and creatures, some pure and some so evil their blood should be black. There are demons, who work for the aforementioned witches, a chasm that seemingly leads to Hell itself and a time portal that must be found before all the evil of the past can pour through and lay waste to “modern” Rand. You may think there’s a lot going on, but believe me when I tell you that it makes for a more immersive reading experience.
If you love epic, blood-pounding adventurous fantasy, this your book and your series. But be sure to read them in order – otherwise you’ll be lost. Trust me, it is worth every single minute!
I was given a reader’s copy by the author in exchange for an honest review, and I am so glad I read this. Get your copy and prepare to have your mind blown!
There are witches, telepathic horses that fly, demonic dogs, an ancient race that have hidden themselves away, mystifying hybrids, a surly commander and more royalty than one land should be able to hold. But Ms. Shaw brings all the characters, complete with their foibles, passions and insecurities together in a satisfying way that sucks you in and will not let you go until the last page.
I’m not sure if I was more drawn to the ancient library, the flying horses or the mystery of the amulet, but I can tell you that this book kept me up reading far past when I intended to shut the light off. This world needed a hero, and in the end, there were many of them. But each of them is so unique that you’ll have no problem keeping them straight in your head. (So to speak. This is a WLW fantasy novel, after all)
There is adventure here too. Different areas within Rand had their own beauty as well as challenges, just as parts of our own world do. Because of this, I found it easier to relate and fall in love with Rand. I mean, who wouldn’t want to live in a world that had mountains, forests, swamps and a sea with its very own water-dwelling monsters and shape shifting seals?
The author populated Rand with a staggeringly varied array of people and creatures, some pure and some so evil their blood should be black. There are demons, who work for the aforementioned witches, a chasm that seemingly leads to Hell itself and a time portal that must be found before all the evil of the past can pour through and lay waste to “modern” Rand. You may think there’s a lot going on, but believe me when I tell you that it makes for a more immersive reading experience.
If you love epic, blood-pounding adventurous fantasy, this your book and your series. But be sure to read them in order – otherwise you’ll be lost. Trust me, it is worth every single minute!
I was given a reader’s copy by the author in exchange for an honest review, and I am so glad I read this. Get your copy and prepare to have your mind blown!
September 11, 2022
Silvia Shaw’s latest novel, Covenant of Queens, is the third and final installment in the Rand trilogy. Covenant of Queens transports the reader into the land of Rand, replete with both good and evil magic, Queendoms, and wondrous creatures that steal the breath away. Layers of intrigue, magical history, and political machinations that any aficionado of such stories might crave are woven inside a world rich with its own unique backstory. Shaw has created an incredibly nuanced world with a matriarchal society that reads as completely plausible.
This is an electrifying story to get the reader’s heart racing. I remained totally engrossed while reading this novel, my emotions ranging from terrified for the characters to shouting aloud at their triumphs. Each scene is easily heard, felt, and visualized as the reader is immersed in the dreaded magical war that has finally arrived. However, this is not only a tale of the conflict between good and evil. Romance abounds as well as concealed family dynamics, giving this story a full and rounded dimensional resonance. I literally could not put this novel down and devoured the entire thing in less than twenty four hours.
Each character, both primary and secondary, has their own voice and emotional depth that emerges in every scene. Ms. Shaw takes her time with the story, allowing all of the plot lines developed over the trilogy to unfold naturally. Characters from the previous novels return, along with new and frightening creatures, and all questions are answered by the time the tale ends. Needless to say, my only regret is that the story does indeed finally come to a close although the novel leaves open the possibility for more.
It is no wonder that the first novel, Rand, won a Golden Crown Literary Society award in July 2022. I expect no less for this novel as well and i look forward to reading more from this author in the future. The fact that this is a work of lesbian fiction should in no way deter anyone from reading this rollicking fantasy adventure.
This is an electrifying story to get the reader’s heart racing. I remained totally engrossed while reading this novel, my emotions ranging from terrified for the characters to shouting aloud at their triumphs. Each scene is easily heard, felt, and visualized as the reader is immersed in the dreaded magical war that has finally arrived. However, this is not only a tale of the conflict between good and evil. Romance abounds as well as concealed family dynamics, giving this story a full and rounded dimensional resonance. I literally could not put this novel down and devoured the entire thing in less than twenty four hours.
Each character, both primary and secondary, has their own voice and emotional depth that emerges in every scene. Ms. Shaw takes her time with the story, allowing all of the plot lines developed over the trilogy to unfold naturally. Characters from the previous novels return, along with new and frightening creatures, and all questions are answered by the time the tale ends. Needless to say, my only regret is that the story does indeed finally come to a close although the novel leaves open the possibility for more.
It is no wonder that the first novel, Rand, won a Golden Crown Literary Society award in July 2022. I expect no less for this novel as well and i look forward to reading more from this author in the future. The fact that this is a work of lesbian fiction should in no way deter anyone from reading this rollicking fantasy adventure.
April 28, 2023
```A copy of the book was provided to Sapphic Book Club in exchange for an honest review.
``
Covenant of Queens is the third book of the Rand series.
In this third chapter Savannah is a archeologist from our world who after finding a magical necklace travelled to Rand and became the chosen one, destined to save a fantasy world called Rand from many enemies.
The last enemy being an evil army of time travelling shape shifters.
My favourite thing about this series and the books is that most of the characters are women, the Queens have women as consorts. It's so refreshing for once to have a series that has so many womens in it.
You get really attached to the characters and their personal development in the books.
I have a few favourites including a stubborn lively young horse.
Savannah has grown a lot in the previous books and her responsibilities also start to make personal relationships and her romantic relationship tense, so finding a balance in her private life was an important part in this book.
Having a deadline to save the world surely is something that can change someone's life perspective.
I have to say this book was a bit slower to reas for me and I got confused a bit with the characters name and multiple quests during the story.
This book would have benefited from a character name list for a smoother reading.
It's a pleasant book to read. I just didn't click so much with this one compared with the first two, Covenant of Queens was a bit repetitive, maybe in the steps Savannah had to walk in order to save the world of Rand.
The mysteries built up during the series needed to be revealed and honestly I was so curious and invested with Savannah trying to understand the source of her magical powers.
This didn't sound like the actual final chapter so I'm very curious and hopefully for another Rand series book.
``Covenant of Queens is the third book of the Rand series.
In this third chapter Savannah is a archeologist from our world who after finding a magical necklace travelled to Rand and became the chosen one, destined to save a fantasy world called Rand from many enemies.
The last enemy being an evil army of time travelling shape shifters.
My favourite thing about this series and the books is that most of the characters are women, the Queens have women as consorts. It's so refreshing for once to have a series that has so many womens in it.
You get really attached to the characters and their personal development in the books.
I have a few favourites including a stubborn lively young horse.
Savannah has grown a lot in the previous books and her responsibilities also start to make personal relationships and her romantic relationship tense, so finding a balance in her private life was an important part in this book.
Having a deadline to save the world surely is something that can change someone's life perspective.
I have to say this book was a bit slower to reas for me and I got confused a bit with the characters name and multiple quests during the story.
This book would have benefited from a character name list for a smoother reading.
It's a pleasant book to read. I just didn't click so much with this one compared with the first two, Covenant of Queens was a bit repetitive, maybe in the steps Savannah had to walk in order to save the world of Rand.
The mysteries built up during the series needed to be revealed and honestly I was so curious and invested with Savannah trying to understand the source of her magical powers.
This didn't sound like the actual final chapter so I'm very curious and hopefully for another Rand series book.
March 25, 2024
Great finale to a fantastic trilogy. I read the whole series back to back, and i fell in love with the world that was created. However, i must say this book wasn't up to par to the 2 other books.
The issues come with the changing povs.which i loved in the previous books but didn't like as much here. Separate situations are going on, while some characters that i love so much are being sidelined because the focus is shifted. For example, in this whole book, Fern, Jezzine, Reagan, and Valeria were all not the central focus, but that comes with the flow of the story. I think there could have been a better way to incorporate them into the story if u were going to put so many important characters into the book.
The changing povs are also quite disjointed, i feel. Savannah mostly travels on her own, so i feel a lot of things are left out. It feels more like a solo adventure, and i wanted more community or more adventuring/travelling with the rest of the characters. There was more strategizing and war talk than light moments, which makes sense, but maybe some hang outs with the characters to see their dynamics and relations with each other could be added in.
But, i still love the story and the characters and feel that these issues don't take away the beauty of this series and what it encapsulates. With its riveting and action-packed storyline, characters that make you want to root for them, it really all make up for an engaging and thought-provoking read. I was unable to put this book down, reading on to know more about the mysteries and wonders of Rand.
4 stars.
The issues come with the changing povs.which i loved in the previous books but didn't like as much here. Separate situations are going on, while some characters that i love so much are being sidelined because the focus is shifted. For example, in this whole book, Fern, Jezzine, Reagan, and Valeria were all not the central focus, but that comes with the flow of the story. I think there could have been a better way to incorporate them into the story if u were going to put so many important characters into the book.
The changing povs are also quite disjointed, i feel. Savannah mostly travels on her own, so i feel a lot of things are left out. It feels more like a solo adventure, and i wanted more community or more adventuring/travelling with the rest of the characters. There was more strategizing and war talk than light moments, which makes sense, but maybe some hang outs with the characters to see their dynamics and relations with each other could be added in.
But, i still love the story and the characters and feel that these issues don't take away the beauty of this series and what it encapsulates. With its riveting and action-packed storyline, characters that make you want to root for them, it really all make up for an engaging and thought-provoking read. I was unable to put this book down, reading on to know more about the mysteries and wonders of Rand.
4 stars.
December 23, 2022
I love these books. It's so nice to have a book where everything works out and it's all happy at the end. Everyone falls in love, everyone lives, everyone has a success and a place in the world. It's the best.
This book wraps up the war with the Crevlin and has Savannah coming into her full power and realizing her heritage. It was definitely interesting and I enjoyed it thoroughly. . There's a lot of planting and payoff here, characters and items that were established earlier come back to play a big roll. I will say, some of the characters' names were very similar and I forgot who they were at first. I also would have loved to have a big map of the world. I only found the tiny map while writing this review and while I had a pretty good sense of the geography just from the narrative, I did totally mess some things up. (Not such a big deal.)
I loved the romance between Lilybeth and Gladofin. Well, I love the romance between all of them, but I will say we got almost no Fern this time, which I did miss. But there was a hell of a lot going on, so I understand lol
I would love to get these on my shelf someday! Someone with connections get on that please <3
This book wraps up the war with the Crevlin and has Savannah coming into her full power and realizing her heritage. It was definitely interesting and I enjoyed it thoroughly. . There's a lot of planting and payoff here, characters and items that were established earlier come back to play a big roll. I will say, some of the characters' names were very similar and I forgot who they were at first. I also would have loved to have a big map of the world. I only found the tiny map while writing this review and while I had a pretty good sense of the geography just from the narrative, I did totally mess some things up. (Not such a big deal.)
I loved the romance between Lilybeth and Gladofin. Well, I love the romance between all of them, but I will say we got almost no Fern this time, which I did miss. But there was a hell of a lot going on, so I understand lol
I would love to get these on my shelf someday! Someone with connections get on that please <3
January 30, 2023
3.5
there’s a quote in this book where one of the characters says that savannah can get out of any impossible situation and that’s the damn truth. it’s also the downfall of these books. there are absolutely ZERO stakes because savannah somehow manages to plot through everything with either her OP magic or she’s with another character who saves her every. single. time.
also there’s clearly a time jump at the beginning of this book but a little “one month later” would’ve been absolutely stellar because it literally throws you right in at the deep end with the beginning of the war? like the end of the last book everyone’s all happy because fern is getting married and then this book it’s BAM war, death, destruction. not even a hello.
pela and savannah’s relationship has a bit better development this book but it’s still not enough for me to see them as some crazy fantasy ultimate endgame ship. they hardly spend anytime together, and when they do they do NOT talk about anything bothering them.
i’m assuming there’s going to be another book because savannah has had another lovely premonition telling her there will be more danger in rand within a year (can’t blindside savannah) so since she’s finally lost grandmother, i’m hoping it means without the guidance she’ll at least face some sort of battle where she doesn’t win, but i’m not holding out hope.
there’s a quote in this book where one of the characters says that savannah can get out of any impossible situation and that’s the damn truth. it’s also the downfall of these books. there are absolutely ZERO stakes because savannah somehow manages to plot through everything with either her OP magic or she’s with another character who saves her every. single. time.
also there’s clearly a time jump at the beginning of this book but a little “one month later” would’ve been absolutely stellar because it literally throws you right in at the deep end with the beginning of the war? like the end of the last book everyone’s all happy because fern is getting married and then this book it’s BAM war, death, destruction. not even a hello.
pela and savannah’s relationship has a bit better development this book but it’s still not enough for me to see them as some crazy fantasy ultimate endgame ship. they hardly spend anytime together, and when they do they do NOT talk about anything bothering them.
i’m assuming there’s going to be another book because savannah has had another lovely premonition telling her there will be more danger in rand within a year (can’t blindside savannah) so since she’s finally lost grandmother, i’m hoping it means without the guidance she’ll at least face some sort of battle where she doesn’t win, but i’m not holding out hope.
September 1, 2024
Loved the ending of this series. Didn't see all the twists, especially at the end. I remembered that this book had the romances for Reagan and Gladofin...but forgot that it wasn't with each other. Gladofin meets the lovely Lilybeth and Reagan falls in love with Eric from the hidden city. Really happy with the way Savannah was able to work out so much of what happened to trigger all the events over the two time periods. It felt like all the threads were neatly tied off. Though there is a hint for the next series.
I really enjoyed Lilybeth's character. She was a strong warrior queen who was also shy and uncertain of herself when it came to Gladofin. Their romance is so sweet, I would have loved more time with the couple. Reagan isn't a POV character at all, but we do get to see her grow as a person and find a place that needs her and her abilities. Her love with Eric was unexpected, but pleasant. Savannah and Pela as well as Tamasin and Valeria all continued to play parts in the story. There was much less with Fern and Jezzine though.
Once again, there were no third act breakups. Though there is a little drama between Savannah and Pela that leaves the two mad at each other and maybe a touch petty. The other POV romance was similarly to the others a slowburn romance with lots of pining and angst. Overall a great way to end the series.
I really enjoyed Lilybeth's character. She was a strong warrior queen who was also shy and uncertain of herself when it came to Gladofin. Their romance is so sweet, I would have loved more time with the couple. Reagan isn't a POV character at all, but we do get to see her grow as a person and find a place that needs her and her abilities. Her love with Eric was unexpected, but pleasant. Savannah and Pela as well as Tamasin and Valeria all continued to play parts in the story. There was much less with Fern and Jezzine though.
Once again, there were no third act breakups. Though there is a little drama between Savannah and Pela that leaves the two mad at each other and maybe a touch petty. The other POV romance was similarly to the others a slowburn romance with lots of pining and angst. Overall a great way to end the series.
February 23, 2025
3.5 Stars
I really like this series overall. As, I stated in the previous two books, there are so many enjoyable characters and getting to know them has been great. That said, I think there is just too much going on by the end of book 2 leading into this one. I love the strong female cast and lgbt+, also.
I feel like this book was just too "clean". Don't get me wrong, I'm SO glad none of the queens or consorts died. I was really scared of that, but Savannah just can do, literally everything and far too well. I'm assuming there might be another book or a novella tied to this; if not, Shaw left it open for it.
I just felt like everything was far too rushed. It could have been stretched out to give more detail. It felt like there was so much build up between the last two books and at the very end of this one, Savannah goes through time, kills one absolutely powerful enemy to then hide, confront the "final" absolutely powerful enemy in the matter of moments. Even the conversations between the lovers and friends seemed so rush.
IDK I feel like this could have been SO much better than it was, although it was still really good.
I really like this series overall. As, I stated in the previous two books, there are so many enjoyable characters and getting to know them has been great. That said, I think there is just too much going on by the end of book 2 leading into this one. I love the strong female cast and lgbt+, also.
I feel like this book was just too "clean". Don't get me wrong, I'm SO glad none of the queens or consorts died. I was really scared of that, but Savannah just can do, literally everything and far too well. I'm assuming there might be another book or a novella tied to this; if not, Shaw left it open for it.
I just felt like everything was far too rushed. It could have been stretched out to give more detail. It felt like there was so much build up between the last two books and at the very end of this one, Savannah goes through time, kills one absolutely powerful enemy to then hide, confront the "final" absolutely powerful enemy in the matter of moments. Even the conversations between the lovers and friends seemed so rush.
IDK I feel like this could have been SO much better than it was, although it was still really good.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 22, 2022
If I could only use one word to describe the book, and the series as a whole, it would be epic. As that is what it really is - an epic fantasy, with a well thought out plot line, a grand scale conflict, and of sapphic romance as well (though admittedly the world plot is the main focus, but it was nice to see another relationship blossom, and more development of the love between Savannah and Pela).
As the final book of the triology, it starts straight after the previous book and hits the ground running, with Savannah on her quest to unite the kingdoms, and work out what the hell was actually going on. Plenty of conflict, mystery, and tender moments, I couldn't put the book down, eagerly devouring the story till I turned the last page. And it definitely delivered, the conclusion satisfactory and wrapped up well.
Covenant of Queens is an excellent book, and Imperial Rand a brilliant series. If you like fantasy, this series is a must read.
As the final book of the triology, it starts straight after the previous book and hits the ground running, with Savannah on her quest to unite the kingdoms, and work out what the hell was actually going on. Plenty of conflict, mystery, and tender moments, I couldn't put the book down, eagerly devouring the story till I turned the last page. And it definitely delivered, the conclusion satisfactory and wrapped up well.
Covenant of Queens is an excellent book, and Imperial Rand a brilliant series. If you like fantasy, this series is a must read.
January 4, 2024
Feels good to be in another world for awhile.
As someone who became disabled as an adult and am unable to do the things I used to do, this series captured me. I just finished the trilogy within three days.
There are some ways of speaking that feel off to me, and I don’t know if that’s because the writer is from another country (I’m in the US) or if it’s simply due to the fact that we’re almost immediately transported into a new and different realm of being. Savannah has the help of medallion to guide her where us readers do not.
Aside from that I loved the books. It fulfilled my gay romantic side as well as my need for fantasy and adventure. Most chapters kept me on the edge of my seat, trying to decipher the clues as to who Savannah’s heritage comes from. I loved that like most heroes she conquered the world.
I would recommend this book to anyone.
I thank you, author, for bringing this world to me.
As someone who became disabled as an adult and am unable to do the things I used to do, this series captured me. I just finished the trilogy within three days.
There are some ways of speaking that feel off to me, and I don’t know if that’s because the writer is from another country (I’m in the US) or if it’s simply due to the fact that we’re almost immediately transported into a new and different realm of being. Savannah has the help of medallion to guide her where us readers do not.
Aside from that I loved the books. It fulfilled my gay romantic side as well as my need for fantasy and adventure. Most chapters kept me on the edge of my seat, trying to decipher the clues as to who Savannah’s heritage comes from. I loved that like most heroes she conquered the world.
I would recommend this book to anyone.
I thank you, author, for bringing this world to me.
September 10, 2022
Great book.
The story continues straight into action when Savannah is flying to the Berian Palace, home to warrior Queen Lilybeth. As she battles to uncover the truth of her bloodline, Savannah finally learns the secret of her past and is confronted by an adversary who is her worst nightmare.
Meanwhile Pela, now supreme commander of Rand, marshals the armies to fight the invaders. As the days pass, time is running out to find where the enemy will be coming out from the past, for the Covenant of Queens must close the gateway before the invasion.
I loved this book. It has all the old characters as well as many new ones, plus another romance.
The action moves along smoothly and never was I confused with 'who was who.'
A well-written book that I can recommend to fantasy readers and anyone who enjoys a good story.
The story continues straight into action when Savannah is flying to the Berian Palace, home to warrior Queen Lilybeth. As she battles to uncover the truth of her bloodline, Savannah finally learns the secret of her past and is confronted by an adversary who is her worst nightmare.
Meanwhile Pela, now supreme commander of Rand, marshals the armies to fight the invaders. As the days pass, time is running out to find where the enemy will be coming out from the past, for the Covenant of Queens must close the gateway before the invasion.
I loved this book. It has all the old characters as well as many new ones, plus another romance.
The action moves along smoothly and never was I confused with 'who was who.'
A well-written book that I can recommend to fantasy readers and anyone who enjoys a good story.
February 9, 2023
A good start. A fumbled wrap to book1. A mid AF middle book. And as for this one I am just... whelmed.
The adventure portions were really interesting and that's all that gripped me and kept me going through this series but oh God did the character interactions between such promising characters just.. lack everything. The same build up, tension and excitement that you read in the adventure portion is just not there for any sort of interpersonal exchanges.
I just can't even with this series.
Generous 3 stars because honestly I was really into the adventure bits - which I normally am not into.
So yea. 😐
The adventure portions were really interesting and that's all that gripped me and kept me going through this series but oh God did the character interactions between such promising characters just.. lack everything. The same build up, tension and excitement that you read in the adventure portion is just not there for any sort of interpersonal exchanges.
I just can't even with this series.
Generous 3 stars because honestly I was really into the adventure bits - which I normally am not into.
So yea. 😐
September 13, 2022
Another Amazing Story!!!
I cannot praise the writing of Silvia Shaw enough! I've been patiently waiting for this next instalment of the Rand saga and this concluding book did not disappoint. Savannah, as usual, finds herself in all kinds of 'sticky' situations, much to the dismay of Pela. This book has all the usual subject matters like the others, with danger, romance and heroics abound and the only thing I'm upset about is that I got to the end :( Please, Ms Shaw, bring another book out soon - hopefully with some of the same characters :)
I cannot praise the writing of Silvia Shaw enough! I've been patiently waiting for this next instalment of the Rand saga and this concluding book did not disappoint. Savannah, as usual, finds herself in all kinds of 'sticky' situations, much to the dismay of Pela. This book has all the usual subject matters like the others, with danger, romance and heroics abound and the only thing I'm upset about is that I got to the end :( Please, Ms Shaw, bring another book out soon - hopefully with some of the same characters :)
November 15, 2022
I have no words...this was a beautiful conclusion to the Forgotten Realms saga. I can barely breathe, it has been so fast paced that I conscientiously had to stop myself reading it fast, beause I wanted and needed to enjoy it thoroughly.
I liked that among all the military strategies and the action scenes, there was also that little speck of romance thrown in the mix that it made a beautiful last part of this trilogy...even though it hints a bit at a potential new threat rising for the Chosen One.
Brilliant 👏
I liked that among all the military strategies and the action scenes, there was also that little speck of romance thrown in the mix that it made a beautiful last part of this trilogy...even though it hints a bit at a potential new threat rising for the Chosen One.
Brilliant 👏
December 26, 2022
I think I may have got a bit carried away with the previous book giving it 3.5 stars. To some extent the frantic pace and constant action covered up the ‘clunkiness’ of the story. Sometimes things happen and I can’t really understand how or why, they are either so contrived or just appear from nowhere, perhaps I have just read too many traditional Fantasies.
Overall this was a decent read and I really liked some of the ideas behind the story, but I thought the author kept trying to include too many different things, more isn’t always better. If possible I would have given 2.5 stars.
Overall this was a decent read and I really liked some of the ideas behind the story, but I thought the author kept trying to include too many different things, more isn’t always better. If possible I would have given 2.5 stars.
June 6, 2025
Great book!
Another amazing book from this author. It was final book in the Imperial Rand Trilogy. Last few days I was mesmerised by how good this series is. I loved it! The adventures, romances and magic were just the right amount. I felt kind of sad when I finished reading. I wanted more. The thought that it was all over was depressing but then I discovered that other Silvia Shaw’s books are set in Rand as well. Lucky me.
No time like the present to continue with the first book in The Shadow Makers series. I am not done with Rand and The Forgotten Realms yet.
Another amazing book from this author. It was final book in the Imperial Rand Trilogy. Last few days I was mesmerised by how good this series is. I loved it! The adventures, romances and magic were just the right amount. I felt kind of sad when I finished reading. I wanted more. The thought that it was all over was depressing but then I discovered that other Silvia Shaw’s books are set in Rand as well. Lucky me.
No time like the present to continue with the first book in The Shadow Makers series. I am not done with Rand and The Forgotten Realms yet.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews