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Legends of Abreia #4
The Captive Throne
In a royal marriage of convenience, nothing is less convenient than love.
Princess Evaraine always knew she would one day wed a stranger, but her arranged marriage to the Prince of Garimore is nothing like she expected. She never anticipated losing her heart to the man she would marry. And she certainly would not have guessed that she’d be leaving him behind within hours of their wedding.
After the arrival of devastating news, Evaraine must make her way home in a desperate—and likely doomed—attempt to save her father. One tiny shard of hope remains, but it is a hope that requires her to face the darkness alone. Far from anyone familiar or beloved. Far from the man she knows will never return her love.
But she has no choice. There is no one else to fight for the people she was born to lead…no one but the most unlikely ally imaginable.
Prince Danric of Garimore has endured the dissolution of everything he thought he knew and found himself at a crossroads where only one certainty remains—if he cannot save the woman he has pledged his life to, every other victory will seem hollow.
But how can he convince her to trust him? Forgive him? How can he even find her when she seems determined to hide?
Time is running out, and the fate of all Abreia may rest with two wary hearts afraid to trust in the one thing that could save them both.
Princess Evaraine always knew she would one day wed a stranger, but her arranged marriage to the Prince of Garimore is nothing like she expected. She never anticipated losing her heart to the man she would marry. And she certainly would not have guessed that she’d be leaving him behind within hours of their wedding.
After the arrival of devastating news, Evaraine must make her way home in a desperate—and likely doomed—attempt to save her father. One tiny shard of hope remains, but it is a hope that requires her to face the darkness alone. Far from anyone familiar or beloved. Far from the man she knows will never return her love.
But she has no choice. There is no one else to fight for the people she was born to lead…no one but the most unlikely ally imaginable.
Prince Danric of Garimore has endured the dissolution of everything he thought he knew and found himself at a crossroads where only one certainty remains—if he cannot save the woman he has pledged his life to, every other victory will seem hollow.
But how can he convince her to trust him? Forgive him? How can he even find her when she seems determined to hide?
Time is running out, and the fate of all Abreia may rest with two wary hearts afraid to trust in the one thing that could save them both.
9 pages, Audible Audio
First published June 23, 2022
391 people are currently reading
765 people want to read
About the author
Kenley Davidson
35 books943 followersKenley Davidson is a romantic fantasy author and unrepentant caffeine addict who believes in the power of storytelling and loves nothing more than a good book hangover. Her books include romantasy, urban fantasy, fairy-tale retellings, and sci fi, but no matter the genre, she writes stories of hope and redemption with characters you can root for, heart-pounding romance without the spice, and happy endings that might just make you cry.
Her favorite things (besides books) are coffee, k-dramas, cats, and playing cozy video games. And also scones.
Kenley currently lives in Oklahoma, where she cares for a menagerie of misfit house plants while waiting for her adult children to occasionally pop in for laundry and a home-cooked meal.
Find out more about Kenley’s books at her website: kenleydavidson.com
Her favorite things (besides books) are coffee, k-dramas, cats, and playing cozy video games. And also scones.
Kenley currently lives in Oklahoma, where she cares for a menagerie of misfit house plants while waiting for her adult children to occasionally pop in for laundry and a home-cooked meal.
Find out more about Kenley’s books at her website: kenleydavidson.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 139 reviews
July 17, 2024
Guess I’m the odd man out on this one. I have loved the first three books in this series, and this one started out just as promising. Two things happened, though, that threw me completely for a loop - and not a good one.
First, the storyline of defeating Melgar and his nefarious plans to take over the empire that has been the moving factor of the series, suddenly took a huge detour and the characters spent the rest of the BOOK chasing evil wraiths in a totally unrelated adventure! Huh? All the questions about the queen, what is going on in Garimore and the road ahead to save Farhall is completely ignored! At the very end (the VERY end) we do pop back into the regularly scheduled plot, but…. Very weird and annoying.
Second, *hopefully this isn’t a serious spoiler for anyone, but be warned just in case* It took an entire book plus three quarters of another before those three words are said! We spend THAT LONG reading, “Should I? I don’t know if I should. Is it too soon? Maybe he/she doesn’t want to hear it” over and over and over and over…. (You get the picture) again! By the 50% point of this book I was head screaming “Good grief, blurt it out already!!!!” By the 76% point when it actually happens (that’s just shy of 10% left of two freaking books worth of pages!) It was so overdue that I hardly cared. Melodrama to that point is just a turn off.
SO… as much as I loved the series to this point, I think I need a breather before continuing. I still want to see what happens in the overall arc, and I am curious about Vaniell, the absent prince whose story is coming up in the next two books. Just annoyed enough at this installment that I’mma need a break.
First, the storyline of defeating Melgar and his nefarious plans to take over the empire that has been the moving factor of the series, suddenly took a huge detour and the characters spent the rest of the BOOK chasing evil wraiths in a totally unrelated adventure! Huh? All the questions about the queen, what is going on in Garimore and the road ahead to save Farhall is completely ignored! At the very end (the VERY end) we do pop back into the regularly scheduled plot, but…. Very weird and annoying.
Second, *hopefully this isn’t a serious spoiler for anyone, but be warned just in case* It took an entire book plus three quarters of another before those three words are said! We spend THAT LONG reading, “Should I? I don’t know if I should. Is it too soon? Maybe he/she doesn’t want to hear it” over and over and over and over…. (You get the picture) again! By the 50% point of this book I was head screaming “Good grief, blurt it out already!!!!” By the 76% point when it actually happens (that’s just shy of 10% left of two freaking books worth of pages!) It was so overdue that I hardly cared. Melodrama to that point is just a turn off.
SO… as much as I loved the series to this point, I think I need a breather before continuing. I still want to see what happens in the overall arc, and I am curious about Vaniell, the absent prince whose story is coming up in the next two books. Just annoyed enough at this installment that I’mma need a break.
May 5, 2023
I enjoyed this so much but I’m extremely disappointed that Vaniell never made an appearance AGAIN. All I want is this reunion that’s surely to come between him and his older brother, Danric. That’s all I ask. Now I have to wait til the next book. Again.
January 1, 2025
Wow, what a disappointment. I actually DNF’d it at 45%, I just couldn’t take it.
Evaraine was a completely different character. She went from being strong, courageous, and wise to impulsive, fearful, and irrational. Her doubts and fears toward Danric felt forced, unrealistic, and absolutely ridiculous. She somehow became childish and ignorant overnight.
Also unrealistic is the overnight transformation of Danric in the opposite direction. His extreme patience and change of heart was just as drastic and ridiculous. No one would respond to Evaraine’s attitudes and actions the way he did, especially the character that was developed in book 3. I’m all for character growth, but it needs to be developed and built upon, not sudden transformation.
The contrast between books 1-3 and book 4 was almost shocking, like a completely different author picked up the series.
The first 20% of the book was too slow, with too much information-dumping dialogue. Then it became incredibly cheesy. I wanted to DNF it at 33%, but forced myself to continue because I loved books 1-3. At 45%, yeah, I just couldn’t take it anymore.
I’m so disappointed.
Content:
There is no foul language or sex. There is some violence but it’s not gory or overly descriptive. There is magic. There is no real mention of faith or God.
Evaraine was a completely different character. She went from being strong, courageous, and wise to impulsive, fearful, and irrational. Her doubts and fears toward Danric felt forced, unrealistic, and absolutely ridiculous. She somehow became childish and ignorant overnight.
Also unrealistic is the overnight transformation of Danric in the opposite direction. His extreme patience and change of heart was just as drastic and ridiculous. No one would respond to Evaraine’s attitudes and actions the way he did, especially the character that was developed in book 3. I’m all for character growth, but it needs to be developed and built upon, not sudden transformation.
The contrast between books 1-3 and book 4 was almost shocking, like a completely different author picked up the series.
The first 20% of the book was too slow, with too much information-dumping dialogue. Then it became incredibly cheesy. I wanted to DNF it at 33%, but forced myself to continue because I loved books 1-3. At 45%, yeah, I just couldn’t take it anymore.
I’m so disappointed.
Content:
There is no foul language or sex. There is some violence but it’s not gory or overly descriptive. There is magic. There is no real mention of faith or God.
September 25, 2022
I love Danric so much. And Evaraine, and them together. Yay for healthy romance and communication! (Even if sometimes they delay their communication a bit too long, but never in ways that are frustrating and delay the plot.) And yay for lots of fun cameos! The reading slump/block that hit me and knocked me out about two chapters into this was awful, but this book was excellent. I kinda want to reread the past books in this series now 😅 but I have some new reads that are calling marginally louder. But yeah, definitely recommend this series for lovers of high fantasy with magic and complex politics and slow-burn, super low-spice but still swoony romance.
October 1, 2023
In some ways I liked this book as much as The Hidden Queen but in others I was very frustrated or just plain confused.
First off, the good stuff! My boy Danric grew SOOO much and I am so proud of him and how far he has come! He’s honestly the best part of this book and purely why I liked it so much and why I kept reading at times, lol. And his interactions with Leisa and Kyrion are priceless which leads me to my next point in I loved seeing Evaraine, Danric, Leisa, and Kyrion interact and grow as a team together—team up’s like this are some of my favorite things so I was really happy they all got to shine and grow together. The romance was also really cute when they actually, you know, got off their indecisive butts and TALKED ABOUT IT!!! 🙄
Which leads me to the stuff I didn’t care for, namely the romance and Evaraine. It’s not that I dislike Evaraine, but she frustrated me sooooo much in not talking to people and constantly running away. I get she’s got trust issues but come on girl you had trust issues in The Hidden Queen so at least TRY to show you’ve grown a little harder. 🙄 So her whole trust issues lead into the frustrating aspects of the romance where they had TOO much back and forth on whether they were gonna tell the other that they loved them yadda, yadda with me yelling JUST GET ON WITH IT!!!! and then when they finally did I was still annoyed at them because for me it took too long to get to confession time so yeah that was disappointing.
Lastly the confusing part: what the heck was the point of the wraith side quest???? It went literally nowhere and was resolved so anticlimaxticly I was left wondering what was the point? We only went in a great big circle with them and they had nothing to do with the overarching plot except to bring in some random people very suddenly at the end for seemingly only one reason? It was just weird and poorly executed in my humble opinion.
Not my favorite in the series but still good as long as you don’t mind a loooonnngggg back and forth romance and a side quest that really doesn’t go anywhere. If anything read it for Danric because he’s fantastic!
‼️Content‼️
Language: damning; dear gods; gods; hell; damnation; bastard
Violence: fighting with weapons, magic, and hand to hand (not detailed); injuries and blood (not detailed); wraith like creatures attack and suck the life out of people; a man is stabbed in the chest (not detailed)
Sexual: kissing (not detailed)
Drug/Alcohol: characters drink ale
Other: magic; mages, elves, fae, and other magical races; magical creatures and abilities; a character is illegitimate; a character is imprisoned; death and grief
First off, the good stuff! My boy Danric grew SOOO much and I am so proud of him and how far he has come! He’s honestly the best part of this book and purely why I liked it so much and why I kept reading at times, lol. And his interactions with Leisa and Kyrion are priceless which leads me to my next point in I loved seeing Evaraine, Danric, Leisa, and Kyrion interact and grow as a team together—team up’s like this are some of my favorite things so I was really happy they all got to shine and grow together. The romance was also really cute when they actually, you know, got off their indecisive butts and TALKED ABOUT IT!!! 🙄
Which leads me to the stuff I didn’t care for, namely the romance and Evaraine. It’s not that I dislike Evaraine, but she frustrated me sooooo much in not talking to people and constantly running away. I get she’s got trust issues but come on girl you had trust issues in The Hidden Queen so at least TRY to show you’ve grown a little harder. 🙄 So her whole trust issues lead into the frustrating aspects of the romance where they had TOO much back and forth on whether they were gonna tell the other that they loved them yadda, yadda with me yelling JUST GET ON WITH IT!!!! and then when they finally did I was still annoyed at them because for me it took too long to get to confession time so yeah that was disappointing.
Lastly the confusing part: what the heck was the point of the wraith side quest???? It went literally nowhere and was resolved so anticlimaxticly I was left wondering what was the point? We only went in a great big circle with them and they had nothing to do with the overarching plot except to bring in some random people very suddenly at the end for seemingly only one reason? It was just weird and poorly executed in my humble opinion.
Not my favorite in the series but still good as long as you don’t mind a loooonnngggg back and forth romance and a side quest that really doesn’t go anywhere. If anything read it for Danric because he’s fantastic!
‼️Content‼️
Language: damning; dear gods; gods; hell; damnation; bastard
Violence: fighting with weapons, magic, and hand to hand (not detailed); injuries and blood (not detailed); wraith like creatures attack and suck the life out of people; a man is stabbed in the chest (not detailed)
Sexual: kissing (not detailed)
Drug/Alcohol: characters drink ale
Other: magic; mages, elves, fae, and other magical races; magical creatures and abilities; a character is illegitimate; a character is imprisoned; death and grief
July 2, 2022
The Story Continues . . .
The story continues. It's been awhile since I read the last book so it took me a quick minute to remember it all. Personal growth for main characters was the majority of this book. The plot didn't make any massive jumps, mostly all things we knew were coming, but definitely put us in a place for the big showdown to happen. This probably isn't my favorite book of this series, but it was still good. Next book comes out next year so it will be a bit of a wait.
The story continues. It's been awhile since I read the last book so it took me a quick minute to remember it all. Personal growth for main characters was the majority of this book. The plot didn't make any massive jumps, mostly all things we knew were coming, but definitely put us in a place for the big showdown to happen. This probably isn't my favorite book of this series, but it was still good. Next book comes out next year so it will be a bit of a wait.
January 10, 2024
3.5 stars
THESE YEARNING IDIOTS WILL BE THE DEATH OF ME I LOVE THEM SO MUCH. The slow burn was slow burning, Kenley Davidson really made us wait for it. But they just had so many cute moments while they were yearning for each other and didn't know it and we all know I live for that. Like when he asked to hold her!! When she fell asleep in his arms!! He slept on the ground because she wasn't awake to ask permission!! 'I wasn't entirely sure we were going to survive that battle, so I'd rather not let you go yet, if it's all the same to you.' MY WIFE!!!!!! 'I'm not a saint, Evaraine, if you let your heat paint me as such, you'll only be disappointed.' Lowkey just love this rugged man, he's so grumpy and determined and loyal to a fault, we love to see it. And Evaraine has so much character development and really comes into her own and I just love to see her stepping into her own shoes!!
Also Declan and Kasia book when?! I'm going to need more on the elves and why the day/night elves hate each other and why they retreated from the human world and really just the elves in general.
Honestly this was so good (I may or may not have been crying over it at 2am), I need Book 5 like yesterday. I'm so invested in what's happening but there's so many plot threads (Yvane and the hidden community, who Kasia is because damn she came out of nowhere, the day/night elves and other magical creatures, why the elves went into hiding if they're so powerful, Empire v Abreia, King Melger, mage prosecution, the wraiths, etc etc) that I just don't see how it's going to all be wrapped up in only two more books??
THESE YEARNING IDIOTS WILL BE THE DEATH OF ME I LOVE THEM SO MUCH. The slow burn was slow burning, Kenley Davidson really made us wait for it. But they just had so many cute moments while they were yearning for each other and didn't know it and we all know I live for that. Like when he asked to hold her!! When she fell asleep in his arms!! He slept on the ground because she wasn't awake to ask permission!! 'I wasn't entirely sure we were going to survive that battle, so I'd rather not let you go yet, if it's all the same to you.' MY WIFE!!!!!! 'I'm not a saint, Evaraine, if you let your heat paint me as such, you'll only be disappointed.' Lowkey just love this rugged man, he's so grumpy and determined and loyal to a fault, we love to see it. And Evaraine has so much character development and really comes into her own and I just love to see her stepping into her own shoes!!
Also Declan and Kasia book when?! I'm going to need more on the elves and why the day/night elves hate each other and why they retreated from the human world and really just the elves in general.
Honestly this was so good (I may or may not have been crying over it at 2am), I need Book 5 like yesterday. I'm so invested in what's happening but there's so many plot threads (Yvane and the hidden community, who Kasia is because damn she came out of nowhere, the day/night elves and other magical creatures, why the elves went into hiding if they're so powerful, Empire v Abreia, King Melger, mage prosecution, the wraiths, etc etc) that I just don't see how it's going to all be wrapped up in only two more books??
November 3, 2022
3,5 stars
I know, I know. A book by Kenley, how can I rate it so low?
Don’t get me wrong, I love Kenley and I’ll continue reading her books as soon as they come out. But this one I guess just wasn’t my style.
To be honest, I relate to Leisa much more than Evaraine, but I was still interested in her story. However, this book contained scenes that felt strangely intimate sometimes, and I found myself a bit uncomfortable. Don’t get me wrong - absolutely nothing happens on page or even implied, but there is often talk of mariage and its obligations (that make characters blush, if you see what i mean), noticing the other, physical attraction, blushing, etc.
Of course, the intrigue was great, and we even got to meet some characters we hadn’t seen in a while!! (I HIGHLY recommend you read Stolen Thorn Bride before this one)
I am definitely looking forward to Vaniell’s story, because I think his and his love interest’s personalities will appeal much more to me.
I still think that Abreia is one of my favorite fantasy lands ever, but if you like your books squeaky clean, then tread carefully here.
I received a free copy of this book for review. All aforementioned opinions are my own.
I know, I know. A book by Kenley, how can I rate it so low?
Don’t get me wrong, I love Kenley and I’ll continue reading her books as soon as they come out. But this one I guess just wasn’t my style.
To be honest, I relate to Leisa much more than Evaraine, but I was still interested in her story. However, this book contained scenes that felt strangely intimate sometimes, and I found myself a bit uncomfortable. Don’t get me wrong - absolutely nothing happens on page or even implied, but there is often talk of mariage and its obligations (that make characters blush, if you see what i mean), noticing the other, physical attraction, blushing, etc.
Of course, the intrigue was great, and we even got to meet some characters we hadn’t seen in a while!! (I HIGHLY recommend you read Stolen Thorn Bride before this one)
I am definitely looking forward to Vaniell’s story, because I think his and his love interest’s personalities will appeal much more to me.
I still think that Abreia is one of my favorite fantasy lands ever, but if you like your books squeaky clean, then tread carefully here.
I received a free copy of this book for review. All aforementioned opinions are my own.
April 24, 2024
It’s been two books now with second-guessing, insecurity, distrust, and doubt between Danric and Everaine. Danric at least grew a TON (so much character development since book one and especially in this book). But Everaine was constantly doubting herself and only developed some confidence at the very very end. It was frustrating. It’s hard to feel respect for our protagonist with very little progress being made for nearly two full books. We needed some carrots dangling along the way.
I was also frustrated by the storytelling approach. So much was painstakingly stated over and over through dialogue or thoughts—instead of eluding to feelings with body language descriptions or subtly. As a result, it felt like I was reading a middle school love story.
And lastly, the pacing felt off and the plot line half baked. Everything is culminating in Everaine reclaiming the throne, yet we get 10x more detail on this random Ned character from a mountain town than on the actual epic battle that should have all left us in awe and respect and a final payoff of Everaine and all that she has endured to get here. And speaking of the battle, why does Everaine have to constantly be shown as weak? Who doesn’t love a strong heroine?!
Moral: there was so much potential for this book, but it was a struggle for me to get through. It felt like a first draft.
I was also frustrated by the storytelling approach. So much was painstakingly stated over and over through dialogue or thoughts—instead of eluding to feelings with body language descriptions or subtly. As a result, it felt like I was reading a middle school love story.
And lastly, the pacing felt off and the plot line half baked. Everything is culminating in Everaine reclaiming the throne, yet we get 10x more detail on this random Ned character from a mountain town than on the actual epic battle that should have all left us in awe and respect and a final payoff of Everaine and all that she has endured to get here. And speaking of the battle, why does Everaine have to constantly be shown as weak? Who doesn’t love a strong heroine?!
Moral: there was so much potential for this book, but it was a struggle for me to get through. It felt like a first draft.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 25, 2022
I have truly enjoyed this series! I did however think that this book was the final one and come to find out that book five is coming out next year. 🤦🏼♀️. There is however no real cliffhanger so that’s helpful.
I truly loved Evaraine and Danric and honestly their story is really books 3 and 4. It was drug out a little long in this book and there were moments that I was like “just do it all ready!!” But overall I’m excited to see where the series goes!
I truly loved Evaraine and Danric and honestly their story is really books 3 and 4. It was drug out a little long in this book and there were moments that I was like “just do it all ready!!” But overall I’m excited to see where the series goes!
July 22, 2024
I knew that Evaraine is going to be my favourite FC in this series, and this book just proved that! A conclusion to Danric and Evaraine 's story, it was okay, not as good as the previous books, mainly because the monologues of the MCs were kind of annoying and very repetitive, i mean, they are in love, and they both proved that to one another through their actions and yet, they still question it! It kind of annoyed me!
Kyrion and Leisa's relationship is my favourite! They are amazing together, though i hate how they treated Danric in the beginning! Also, Danric was very submissive and a follower in this book, i didn't enjoy it!
Evaraine is powerful and smart! She was slightly annoying, but within her right to be! I can't wait to see what Vaniell's duet would be like! He is very mysterious and i need to know who his love interest is going to be, maybe she is an elf since we just got to see them in this book!
The epilogue was interesting! That ambassador knows about what the whole second blade is! I have a suspicion that Yvane has something to do with it!
Kyrion and Leisa's relationship is my favourite! They are amazing together, though i hate how they treated Danric in the beginning! Also, Danric was very submissive and a follower in this book, i didn't enjoy it!
Evaraine is powerful and smart! She was slightly annoying, but within her right to be! I can't wait to see what Vaniell's duet would be like! He is very mysterious and i need to know who his love interest is going to be, maybe she is an elf since we just got to see them in this book!
The epilogue was interesting! That ambassador knows about what the whole second blade is! I have a suspicion that Yvane has something to do with it!
April 5, 2024
Solid story but it took me awhile to get through it. It was a little slower in pace than the proceeding books in the series. More thinking and descriptions in the minds of the characters rather than action.
July 3, 2022
Absolutely wonderful book and so worth the wait! I loved seeing Danric and Evaraine grow closer together and I loved seeing Kyrion and Leisa again! Danric and Evaraine really grew as a couple in this book and I loved the development of their relationship and how Danric supports her. He is such a loveable and swoon worthy character. I also thoroughly enjoyed the unfolding political intrigue and I can't wait to see what's next in this series!
Disclaimer: I got an advanced reader copy of this book but all views are my own:-)
Disclaimer: I got an advanced reader copy of this book but all views are my own:-)
July 19, 2022
This latest installment in Abreia was...hard to read.
Let me explain. Being the second half of Danric and Evaraine's story, we got all the crazy answers last book, and were given a whole lot of mystery to wonder about. Then, stakes are upped, Evaraine's father is in trouble and she needs to get back to Farhall.
But instead...side quest time? Wraiths start appearing. So they spend a ridiculously long amount of time wandering around the mountains fighting wraiths. I mean, it takes 3/4 the book where little to nothing happens besides Evaraine and Danric dancing around the fact that they need to confess their feelings for each other, and warning the people about the wraiths.
Meanwhile, as the reader, I'm frustrated beyond belief at the lack of progression to the main plot. What about Vaniell? Queen Portiana? That prologue never came back into play. I kept waiting to see Danric's response. Honestly, the best parts of the book for overall plot were the prologue and epilogue. The rest was, I am incredibly sad to say so draggy that it took me so long to finish the book.
I still love Danric though. He is a cinnamon roll that needs hugs. He was the best part of the book.
It was also fun to see some cameos from the short story that I adored and was my introduction to Abreia.
And, after all that whining I will still say, I love Kenley's style and tone. Still amazing. I adore this series and there is no way I'll stop reading them. I just felt really sad at how the pacing turned out on this one after how tight it was on the previous three. They were flipping amazing. So, despite the fact that I had a lot of guff with this book, I'm still giving it four stars because even though it's not up to par on this author's standard, it is still far better than the average book out there.
Because Kenley is amazing and has spoiled me for expecting impossibly fantastic things with her writing.
Content:
Violence: mild to moderate, there is some fighting, mostly between wraiths and peoples, so not much blood. There is some psychological torture-esque stuff happening in the background, but it is handled with care. There is some violence, but not graphically described in the climax.
Language: None that I recall.
Sensuality: There are some moments of forced proximity between Evaraine and Danric, which Danric always (like the gentlemen he is) says will be totally up to her how intimate they are. There is nothing 'on screen' just them talking about it and how they're married so they need to be grownups about it. Which was funny. There are moments where Evaraine describes a 'warmth in her stomach' or through her body when she's with Danric, so sexual desire is mildly described but never past that. I know that might turn some sensitive people off.
Let me explain. Being the second half of Danric and Evaraine's story, we got all the crazy answers last book, and were given a whole lot of mystery to wonder about. Then, stakes are upped, Evaraine's father is in trouble and she needs to get back to Farhall.
But instead...side quest time? Wraiths start appearing. So they spend a ridiculously long amount of time wandering around the mountains fighting wraiths. I mean, it takes 3/4 the book where little to nothing happens besides Evaraine and Danric dancing around the fact that they need to confess their feelings for each other, and warning the people about the wraiths.
Meanwhile, as the reader, I'm frustrated beyond belief at the lack of progression to the main plot. What about Vaniell? Queen Portiana? That prologue never came back into play. I kept waiting to see Danric's response. Honestly, the best parts of the book for overall plot were the prologue and epilogue. The rest was, I am incredibly sad to say so draggy that it took me so long to finish the book.
I still love Danric though. He is a cinnamon roll that needs hugs. He was the best part of the book.
It was also fun to see some cameos from the short story that I adored and was my introduction to Abreia.
And, after all that whining I will still say, I love Kenley's style and tone. Still amazing. I adore this series and there is no way I'll stop reading them. I just felt really sad at how the pacing turned out on this one after how tight it was on the previous three. They were flipping amazing. So, despite the fact that I had a lot of guff with this book, I'm still giving it four stars because even though it's not up to par on this author's standard, it is still far better than the average book out there.
Because Kenley is amazing and has spoiled me for expecting impossibly fantastic things with her writing.
Content:
Violence: mild to moderate, there is some fighting, mostly between wraiths and peoples, so not much blood. There is some psychological torture-esque stuff happening in the background, but it is handled with care. There is some violence, but not graphically described in the climax.
Language: None that I recall.
Sensuality: There are some moments of forced proximity between Evaraine and Danric, which Danric always (like the gentlemen he is) says will be totally up to her how intimate they are. There is nothing 'on screen' just them talking about it and how they're married so they need to be grownups about it. Which was funny. There are moments where Evaraine describes a 'warmth in her stomach' or through her body when she's with Danric, so sexual desire is mildly described but never past that. I know that might turn some sensitive people off.
July 22, 2022
3.5 Stars
I love Kenley Davidson and the Legends of Abreia series so much. The first two books are some of my favorite fantasy romance books of all time. The story, characters and chemistry were so beautiful!
The third book about Evaraine and Danric was a nice change of pace and I enjoyed their story. I couldn't wait for this 4th book to come out and see how they came together as a romantic couple.
But, I wasn't expecting the storyline of this book to center so much around the wraiths. Once I adjusted to that, I felt like the relationship between Evaraine and Danric took two giant leaps back and all the progress they made vanished. Their chemistry and romance overall felt lacking to me and I wasn't gushing and on the edge of my seat when the romantic scenes finally happened.
However, I did appreciate the other themes this book tackled. I enjoyed seeing Evaraine grow as a character and how she learns a valuable lesson by the end. I really like the theme of not letting fear rule you and self acceptance.
I enjoyed the ending and although this book in the series wasn't my favorite, I'm looking forward to the next one!
I love Kenley Davidson and the Legends of Abreia series so much. The first two books are some of my favorite fantasy romance books of all time. The story, characters and chemistry were so beautiful!
The third book about Evaraine and Danric was a nice change of pace and I enjoyed their story. I couldn't wait for this 4th book to come out and see how they came together as a romantic couple.
But, I wasn't expecting the storyline of this book to center so much around the wraiths. Once I adjusted to that, I felt like the relationship between Evaraine and Danric took two giant leaps back and all the progress they made vanished. Their chemistry and romance overall felt lacking to me and I wasn't gushing and on the edge of my seat when the romantic scenes finally happened.
However, I did appreciate the other themes this book tackled. I enjoyed seeing Evaraine grow as a character and how she learns a valuable lesson by the end. I really like the theme of not letting fear rule you and self acceptance.
I enjoyed the ending and although this book in the series wasn't my favorite, I'm looking forward to the next one!
July 23, 2022
Kenley Davidson is one of my favorite fantasy romance authors! I couldn't get enough of Leisa and Kyrion in book 1 and 2, and in book 3, I really enjoyed learning more about the secrets Evaraine kept and why she was the way she was. Book 3 left on a gigantic cliffhanger, and I was super excited to read The Captive Throne, book 4.
I highly suggest reading The Stolen Thorn Bride before this book, as the overall plot would make more sense while reading this. I did, however, think that the first 80% of this book was unnecessary and repetitive, and that the last 20% should have been tacked onto the last book. One thing I loved about book 3 was watching the relationship between Evaraine and Danric grow. But I felt like it was going backwards in book 4, losing so much progress in a frustrating way. I was left feeling unsatisfied by the end, but I did enjoy how things concluded in the story.
Despite not liking this book as much as the others in the series, I'm still looking forward to reading Vaniell's story next.
I highly suggest reading The Stolen Thorn Bride before this book, as the overall plot would make more sense while reading this. I did, however, think that the first 80% of this book was unnecessary and repetitive, and that the last 20% should have been tacked onto the last book. One thing I loved about book 3 was watching the relationship between Evaraine and Danric grow. But I felt like it was going backwards in book 4, losing so much progress in a frustrating way. I was left feeling unsatisfied by the end, but I did enjoy how things concluded in the story.
Despite not liking this book as much as the others in the series, I'm still looking forward to reading Vaniell's story next.
August 10, 2022
I wanted to like this book, and I did to an extent, but it was rather boring in comparison with the rest of the series. There was a lot of potential in this book that was left at the wayside. Too much of this book was the internal angst felt by Danric and Everaine, and it wasn’t even something felt so much as told—ultimately very hard to get through. I’m definitely interested in the rest of the series, especially Vaniell’s continuation in book 5, but this book was just a let down in a lot of ways.
October 29, 2022
For fuck’s sake. Nearly two entire novels of these two waffling over how they feel about each other. I get that it’s a marriage of politics and that love may not play a part, but holy hell the amount of text in these pages spent on second guessing each other’s feelings is astounding. I’m tired. Like, this book and their feelings is exhausting. There isn’t enough room for a plot here because of how much angst there is.
August 4, 2022
This was a great conclusion to the romance between these two couples! So much danger, and there were times it looked so impossible that they would reach their happy ending!
This book would make a bit more sense if you read the companion novella Of Promises and Thorns (available for free from the author's newsletter).
I can't wait for the next books in this series!
This book would make a bit more sense if you read the companion novella Of Promises and Thorns (available for free from the author's newsletter).
I can't wait for the next books in this series!
July 4, 2022
I absolutely love these stories from the Legends of Abreia. I was fortunate to receive this book as an ARC even though I had already purchased it. I did have to go back to book 3 as a refresher but the story picks up with Danric in a cell not knowing where Everaine disappeared to. And as he starts to worry about how he is going to find her, who should fly by but Kyrion and Leisa. Each is wary of the other but for Everaine's sake they decided to work together. Everaine on the other hand has been left in a village hidden from the rest of the world where she tries to figure out what her magic does and if she can control it. As she is trying to figure out how to save her world, the village is attacked by a creature they call a wraith(which has some similarity to Everaine's magic). She manages to dispatch it when she learns that Danric has found her. Needless to say this is a man who is loyal to the core and will fight for her and for them. As they make their way back to Farhall to save her father and the country they encounter many trials. Much like what is going on today, there is mistrust, fear and anger. But for the moment their biggest issue are these wraiths and they need mages who have remained hidden to rid themselves.
I must say that I was definitely intrigued by the introduction of Kasia and Dechlan, and I really do hope they will continue to be a part of the story or perhaps get their own? They seem to have their own history we are not yet privy too. Vaniell has a very small part as does King Melger but his part is horrific. It starts with the prologue and you will just need to read the book to see how this ends.
As Everaine and Danric work together to save her country; you start to see what both of these people are made up of and things that they had accepted about themselves doesn't make it real. She is stronger than she thinks and he is more open to understanding that what he was taught was true , isn't. But if they work together they can conquer what is holding them back. Enjoy the story and just know it is going to be a little while before the next book. Sigh.....
I must say that I was definitely intrigued by the introduction of Kasia and Dechlan, and I really do hope they will continue to be a part of the story or perhaps get their own? They seem to have their own history we are not yet privy too. Vaniell has a very small part as does King Melger but his part is horrific. It starts with the prologue and you will just need to read the book to see how this ends.
As Everaine and Danric work together to save her country; you start to see what both of these people are made up of and things that they had accepted about themselves doesn't make it real. She is stronger than she thinks and he is more open to understanding that what he was taught was true , isn't. But if they work together they can conquer what is holding them back. Enjoy the story and just know it is going to be a little while before the next book. Sigh.....
November 6, 2022
As the end of a series (a duology in this case, where Evaraine and Danric are the main characters, in the larger series of Abreia), this one kind of fell flat to me. The world is the same as it was for the first two books, so that wasn't the issue -- I still get immersed in Davidson's alternate worlds, always peppered with magic and political intrigue. But in a fantasy romance, the characters are paramount - and this pair just didn't do it for me. I think it's because they were both so understated and reserved, which made for very little chemistry.
The story picks up after Danric learns that his father isn't really his father, but a mirror mage impersonating his father. His brother, meanwhile, is also a mage, and he's missing too. Danric has spent all his life thinking magic is evil, and Evaraine thus assumes that, even though they're already married by the time the book opens, he'll want nothing to do with her once he learns that she's a mage too. She's spent all her life hiding her specific gift of taking the life force of other creatures, afraid that she might lose control, and also that anyone who knew would think her a monster. (This is certainly a good excuse for why she is so reserved.) Danric, meanwhile, is the proper crown prince, and he's all duty. He ends up being Evaraine's travel companion when she goes back to her own nation of Farhall after learning that her father the king is being controlled by a mage as well. Meanwhile, a strange series of wraith creatures threaten both their kingdoms--and only mages, and particularly those with Evaraine's gift, are any match for them.
The characters are well sketched, I just think they're ill-matched to each other. Chapters alternate between them, so we learn what they're really thinking, at least... I just didn't feel the tension between them I suppose. This rendered what would otherwise have been a great, if common scenario (a secret marriage) far less interesting. Like all of Kenley Davidson's books, though, this one is great for winding down before bed.
The story picks up after Danric learns that his father isn't really his father, but a mirror mage impersonating his father. His brother, meanwhile, is also a mage, and he's missing too. Danric has spent all his life thinking magic is evil, and Evaraine thus assumes that, even though they're already married by the time the book opens, he'll want nothing to do with her once he learns that she's a mage too. She's spent all her life hiding her specific gift of taking the life force of other creatures, afraid that she might lose control, and also that anyone who knew would think her a monster. (This is certainly a good excuse for why she is so reserved.) Danric, meanwhile, is the proper crown prince, and he's all duty. He ends up being Evaraine's travel companion when she goes back to her own nation of Farhall after learning that her father the king is being controlled by a mage as well. Meanwhile, a strange series of wraith creatures threaten both their kingdoms--and only mages, and particularly those with Evaraine's gift, are any match for them.
The characters are well sketched, I just think they're ill-matched to each other. Chapters alternate between them, so we learn what they're really thinking, at least... I just didn't feel the tension between them I suppose. This rendered what would otherwise have been a great, if common scenario (a secret marriage) far less interesting. Like all of Kenley Davidson's books, though, this one is great for winding down before bed.
February 13, 2023
I enjoyed the first three books in the series (five stars) and was looking forward, and looking forward, and looking forward, and finally got to read this latest book. Aargh! By the time I started reading I had to piece together in my mind who all the characters were and then all the different kingdoms. Add to that, the prologue was a little strange and gruesome (mostly gruesome) and then Chapter One starts out confusing, although Danric's recollections served to refresh my memory a bit. Finally, everything gelled and I was comfortable in the story and ready to follow the adventures of two unique, interesting characters and the supporting cast.
I hadn't even reached the thirty percent mark when my Angst Meter pegged out, and from then on it was in the danger zone (my Kindle now sports imprints of my forehead). I love characters whose inner dialogue we can grow from, just as they do. I love when they express the common frailties we are all subject to. I enjoy delving into the many facets of love and the difference between showing it through noble actions and stating it verbally. I get it. It can be difficult to tell someone, to actually say the words. But it shouldn't take a whole wraith-ridden book...should it? Especially if it overshadows the more interesting elements of solving court intrigue, surviving winter's frigid blast, and fighting magic-sucking, shadow wraiths.
I did like the book and enjoyed the adventure. I liked when we discover the many forces that the "villain" struggles with/against. I liked the foreshadowing leading to the next adventure. And yes, I liked when finally...finally Evaraine and Danric overcame all obstacles and finally pronounced their love. I like the author's writing, voice, and enjoyed laughing at the humor that is sprinkled throughout.
Ahh, if only there were more sprinkles and less angst.
I hadn't even reached the thirty percent mark when my Angst Meter pegged out, and from then on it was in the danger zone (my Kindle now sports imprints of my forehead). I love characters whose inner dialogue we can grow from, just as they do. I love when they express the common frailties we are all subject to. I enjoy delving into the many facets of love and the difference between showing it through noble actions and stating it verbally. I get it. It can be difficult to tell someone, to actually say the words. But it shouldn't take a whole wraith-ridden book...should it? Especially if it overshadows the more interesting elements of solving court intrigue, surviving winter's frigid blast, and fighting magic-sucking, shadow wraiths.
I did like the book and enjoyed the adventure. I liked when we discover the many forces that the "villain" struggles with/against. I liked the foreshadowing leading to the next adventure. And yes, I liked when finally...finally Evaraine and Danric overcame all obstacles and finally pronounced their love. I like the author's writing, voice, and enjoyed laughing at the humor that is sprinkled throughout.
Ahh, if only there were more sprinkles and less angst.
June 28, 2022
I have loved the world of Abreia since the first page of book 1. Davidson does a beautiful job of weaving the world, the characters and the explanation of magic, adventure and romance together. Every time I finish a book in her series I'm deeply satisfied and then deeply depressed I have to wait for the next book to come out.
The first 2 books in the series follow Leisa and Kyrion as the main characters, and while I enjoyed them I was not-so-secretly waiting for Danric and Evaraine's storyline....which blew me away. Danric and Evaraine are opposite in many ways to the snarky and banter-y couple of Leisa and Kyrion. They are both heir's to kingdoms and have a much heavier weight of expectation on them. Without trying to give spoilers, Danric and Evaraine go from enemies to a married couple who compliment each other so well. Where there is slightly less action in this book, Davidson makes up for it with explanation of the overarching plot, personal growth of both MCs and of course the relationship build <3! I thought it was so beautifully written that were times I wanted to cry for and with Evaraine and I couldn't turn the page fast enough. This book was about two souls who have spent their lives surrounded by people and still felt alone. Two heirs who had to put duty above personal wishes, and one couple who had to learn to trust when their whole worlds broke apart. Evaraine will not be your sword wielding snarky heroine that we got with Leisa, but she will NOT disappoint you. I can't wait for book 5!!!!!! Beautiful job Davidson.
5 Stars!
Small Spoiler~~~~~~~~~
If you loved Of Promises and Thorns (previously titled Stolen Thorn Bride) by Kenley Davidson you might see a certain couple make an appearance in The Captive Throne.
The first 2 books in the series follow Leisa and Kyrion as the main characters, and while I enjoyed them I was not-so-secretly waiting for Danric and Evaraine's storyline....which blew me away. Danric and Evaraine are opposite in many ways to the snarky and banter-y couple of Leisa and Kyrion. They are both heir's to kingdoms and have a much heavier weight of expectation on them. Without trying to give spoilers, Danric and Evaraine go from enemies to a married couple who compliment each other so well. Where there is slightly less action in this book, Davidson makes up for it with explanation of the overarching plot, personal growth of both MCs and of course the relationship build <3! I thought it was so beautifully written that were times I wanted to cry for and with Evaraine and I couldn't turn the page fast enough. This book was about two souls who have spent their lives surrounded by people and still felt alone. Two heirs who had to put duty above personal wishes, and one couple who had to learn to trust when their whole worlds broke apart. Evaraine will not be your sword wielding snarky heroine that we got with Leisa, but she will NOT disappoint you. I can't wait for book 5!!!!!! Beautiful job Davidson.
5 Stars!
Small Spoiler~~~~~~~~~
If you loved Of Promises and Thorns (previously titled Stolen Thorn Bride) by Kenley Davidson you might see a certain couple make an appearance in The Captive Throne.
June 29, 2022
This second book in Evaraine and Danric's duology is as satisfying as it exciting. It has twists and action to keep the adventure rolling, but the romance is integral and fitting to these characters. Waiting for this second book after The Hidden Queen is worth it for the continuation and conclusion of their primary story--how their relationship developed and the current political and military situation in Everaine's country of Farhall affecting it's throne, as the book's title suggests. (I'm trying to avoid spoilers from the previous book here, though reading The Hidden Queen is almost required before this one.$
The Captive Throne is also a fabulous continuation of the overarching Legends of Abreia story, which is far from over. There are continuing threads that already make me excited for the next duology. They also make me thankful they're duologies rather than trilogies so the immediate stories are concluded faster. This style of multiple duologies in not only the same world but continuing the same story is exciting, also. The world is fascinating and each book expands it. It's developed well and I look forward to learning more of it.
It's also exciting to see characters we know from previous books. Though they're included in such a way that reading the previous books aren't required, it's definitely recommended. Not only would I suggest reading those of Leisa and Kyrion's story, but I suggest reading Of Promises and Thorns (formerly Stolen Thorn Bride and now available for newsletter subscribers). This book includes elements and characters first introduced in that novella.
Overall, The Captive Throne is an excellent and highly recommended fantasy romance that is satisfying while building excitement for the next book.
The Captive Throne is also a fabulous continuation of the overarching Legends of Abreia story, which is far from over. There are continuing threads that already make me excited for the next duology. They also make me thankful they're duologies rather than trilogies so the immediate stories are concluded faster. This style of multiple duologies in not only the same world but continuing the same story is exciting, also. The world is fascinating and each book expands it. It's developed well and I look forward to learning more of it.
It's also exciting to see characters we know from previous books. Though they're included in such a way that reading the previous books aren't required, it's definitely recommended. Not only would I suggest reading those of Leisa and Kyrion's story, but I suggest reading Of Promises and Thorns (formerly Stolen Thorn Bride and now available for newsletter subscribers). This book includes elements and characters first introduced in that novella.
Overall, The Captive Throne is an excellent and highly recommended fantasy romance that is satisfying while building excitement for the next book.
June 29, 2022
I was really excited to find out what happens to all our favourite characters from the past 3 books! And it was fun to meet new fantasy folk that we haven’t met before.
For the first part of the book I found the switching back and forth between different scenes to be rather confusing, also a bit frustrating -wry face- I know a lot of authors use this though. Good thing it stopped midway through once the characters met up.
Wow bringing in the characters from Stolen thorn and promise was cool! Definitely did not expect them but it’s always nice to find out that the characters tie into a bigger world.
Watching the characters all develop and form relationships was quite fun. I have a soft spot for Leisa and Kyrion so was happy to see them reappear.
Totally forgot where Yvane was from. Book 2 unseen heir.. had to go back and reread that.
But it seems like with every couple they have the same issue of struggling to say I love you to the other and kind of in the same way.. I skimmed those parts after a while cos honestly I was not interested in the angst and uncertainty but more of the overall story and action.
I have to admit I didn’t read the description of the Abreia books properly (about how it is about 3 couples.. and we have only really been introduced to 2 so far) so I was a bit disappointed to find that this isn’t the end of the series but I guess Leisa’s family hasn’t been found yet. Looks like there will be two more about Prince Vaniell (can’t wait!) and am definitely looking forward to those too!
For the first part of the book I found the switching back and forth between different scenes to be rather confusing, also a bit frustrating -wry face- I know a lot of authors use this though. Good thing it stopped midway through once the characters met up.
Wow bringing in the characters from Stolen thorn and promise was cool! Definitely did not expect them but it’s always nice to find out that the characters tie into a bigger world.
Watching the characters all develop and form relationships was quite fun. I have a soft spot for Leisa and Kyrion so was happy to see them reappear.
Totally forgot where Yvane was from. Book 2 unseen heir.. had to go back and reread that.
But it seems like with every couple they have the same issue of struggling to say I love you to the other and kind of in the same way.. I skimmed those parts after a while cos honestly I was not interested in the angst and uncertainty but more of the overall story and action.
I have to admit I didn’t read the description of the Abreia books properly (about how it is about 3 couples.. and we have only really been introduced to 2 so far) so I was a bit disappointed to find that this isn’t the end of the series but I guess Leisa’s family hasn’t been found yet. Looks like there will be two more about Prince Vaniell (can’t wait!) and am definitely looking forward to those too!
December 3, 2023
Too slow and then too fast
2.5 stars. I’m sorry to rate this so low as in the afterword the author talks about what a hard time she had writing this book, but I didn’t much enjoy reading it. It dragged and then the last battle was a blip on the page.
The other issue is there are just too many plot points that get left hanging. This isn’t a problem just with this book but with the
previous books as well. Theres finally an authors note at the end that says these will be tied up in later books, which is OK I guess but there just seems to be too many and having so many leaves you feeling a little bewildered and unsatisfied because the next book(s) are focused on completely different characters so they’re not resolved in the next book of the series, but some book further down the line, which is very odd way to handle this type of series if u ask me.
There was also inconsistencies in the frailty of the MFC in this book. Through the first half of it she was almost incapable of standing on her feet for a few hours, and then all of a sudden she’s traipsing through the forest on multi day trips with not much trouble. At some point an attempt is made to explain this away by saying she gets more energy from nature, but it just didn’t land as believable. Then towards the end of the book, she goes back to being frail literally overnight.
Ironically after all that I am going to read the next book because I have invested a lot of time in this series to this point, and want to see if she can tie this up in a satisfying way.
2.5 stars. I’m sorry to rate this so low as in the afterword the author talks about what a hard time she had writing this book, but I didn’t much enjoy reading it. It dragged and then the last battle was a blip on the page.
The other issue is there are just too many plot points that get left hanging. This isn’t a problem just with this book but with the
previous books as well. Theres finally an authors note at the end that says these will be tied up in later books, which is OK I guess but there just seems to be too many and having so many leaves you feeling a little bewildered and unsatisfied because the next book(s) are focused on completely different characters so they’re not resolved in the next book of the series, but some book further down the line, which is very odd way to handle this type of series if u ask me.
There was also inconsistencies in the frailty of the MFC in this book. Through the first half of it she was almost incapable of standing on her feet for a few hours, and then all of a sudden she’s traipsing through the forest on multi day trips with not much trouble. At some point an attempt is made to explain this away by saying she gets more energy from nature, but it just didn’t land as believable. Then towards the end of the book, she goes back to being frail literally overnight.
Ironically after all that I am going to read the next book because I have invested a lot of time in this series to this point, and want to see if she can tie this up in a satisfying way.
November 7, 2023
I am always glad for another Abreia story. I love Kenley Davidson’s stories and her writing. Dechlan and Kasia made me remember about “Stolen Thorn Bride” (Now “Of Promises and Thorns”), which I can’t remember well but will read next, obviously. Now I can’t help but hope there will be a companion series with Dechlan/Kasia, Leisa/Kyrion, Wyn, and more of Abreia in general. 😁
I liked the beginning of this book and the end. The middle dragged on a bit and was repetitive. I felt like I read about Danric regretting not noticing Melger’s secrets sooner, Evaraine and Danric both consigning themselves to loving someone who couldn’t love them, and Evaraine begging Danric to leave the fight only to realize she was doing to him what her father did to her maybe 5 or 6 times each. Several of the middle scenes took a long time to resolve and ultimately had very little to do with the plot. I thought it was believable to have everyone constantly suspicious of Danric and even antagonistic towards him… but man was I irritated about it! I like the guy and was hoping he’d catch a break at some point. But, he was super in the wrong before, so it would understandably take people a long time to trust him.
Looking forward to the next duology and hoping for more answers about Leisa and more involvement from the previous characters!
(Also, this felt more like a 3 star book for me in terms of plot. But it’s clean romance with a good fantasy world and strong writing. So it gets 4 stars from me 🙂)
I liked the beginning of this book and the end. The middle dragged on a bit and was repetitive. I felt like I read about Danric regretting not noticing Melger’s secrets sooner, Evaraine and Danric both consigning themselves to loving someone who couldn’t love them, and Evaraine begging Danric to leave the fight only to realize she was doing to him what her father did to her maybe 5 or 6 times each. Several of the middle scenes took a long time to resolve and ultimately had very little to do with the plot. I thought it was believable to have everyone constantly suspicious of Danric and even antagonistic towards him… but man was I irritated about it! I like the guy and was hoping he’d catch a break at some point. But, he was super in the wrong before, so it would understandably take people a long time to trust him.
Looking forward to the next duology and hoping for more answers about Leisa and more involvement from the previous characters!
(Also, this felt more like a 3 star book for me in terms of plot. But it’s clean romance with a good fantasy world and strong writing. So it gets 4 stars from me 🙂)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 29, 2022
The HEA for Evaraine, but the story continues
First, I thought this book would be the end of the series and the defeat of Melger, but though that story line definitely progressed, that ending still feels a long way off. Vaniell returns in the next book, and I'm looking forward to that.
Instead, this is the story of Evaraine and Danric coming together, and their joint attempts to loosen Garimore's hold on Farhall.
Cons: it drags a bit right in the middle as two secretive, isolated, and lonely people learn to be in a relationship. You might enjoy that part more :)
Pros: the rest of the story continues to be fast paced and filled with horrible things for our heroes to fight. The amazing world building in the first two books continues. We see Kyrion and Leisa quite a bit, and even Wyn makes an appearance.
Some characters from Stolen Thorn Bride make an appearance. It's not a long book, and takes place in the same world. I highly recommend reading it after book 3 and before this one.
Conclusion: While I didn't enjoy every second of this one as I did with the three before, I still enjoyed it, especially the first and last third of the book. This series continues to have exceptionally well drawn characters, hurt/comfort themes, found family, swords and castles, and loyalty and honor themes.
First, I thought this book would be the end of the series and the defeat of Melger, but though that story line definitely progressed, that ending still feels a long way off. Vaniell returns in the next book, and I'm looking forward to that.
Instead, this is the story of Evaraine and Danric coming together, and their joint attempts to loosen Garimore's hold on Farhall.
Cons: it drags a bit right in the middle as two secretive, isolated, and lonely people learn to be in a relationship. You might enjoy that part more :)
Pros: the rest of the story continues to be fast paced and filled with horrible things for our heroes to fight. The amazing world building in the first two books continues. We see Kyrion and Leisa quite a bit, and even Wyn makes an appearance.
Some characters from Stolen Thorn Bride make an appearance. It's not a long book, and takes place in the same world. I highly recommend reading it after book 3 and before this one.
Conclusion: While I didn't enjoy every second of this one as I did with the three before, I still enjoyed it, especially the first and last third of the book. This series continues to have exceptionally well drawn characters, hurt/comfort themes, found family, swords and castles, and loyalty and honor themes.
January 27, 2025
This was disappointing and I’m surprised that this has such a high average number of reviews on goodreads. However, I am invested in the plot of the story and will continue on in the series with the hopes that it gets better.
I didn’t like this because I didn’t think that this remained true to the characters, it seemed like there was such a radical change that they were basically not the same people anymore. Evaraine is supposed to be physically frail but courageous. And yet, she somehow had strength even when not surrounded by nature. It seemed like the author only remembered to make her weak in times of convenience. And Danric, he did a complete 360 in going from having all his ideals questioned and a complete devotion to his kingdom to suddenly being willing to follow Evaraine around like a lost puppy. I was shocked that he was willing to put his own fears for his kingdom and own mother aside to trail after Evaraine.
His crowning makes me question what the future will bring and I’m relieved to not be stuck with these characters in the coming books. Hopefully the next ones are better.
I didn’t like this because I didn’t think that this remained true to the characters, it seemed like there was such a radical change that they were basically not the same people anymore. Evaraine is supposed to be physically frail but courageous. And yet, she somehow had strength even when not surrounded by nature. It seemed like the author only remembered to make her weak in times of convenience. And Danric, he did a complete 360 in going from having all his ideals questioned and a complete devotion to his kingdom to suddenly being willing to follow Evaraine around like a lost puppy. I was shocked that he was willing to put his own fears for his kingdom and own mother aside to trail after Evaraine.
His crowning makes me question what the future will bring and I’m relieved to not be stuck with these characters in the coming books. Hopefully the next ones are better.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 2, 2022
Book 4 in the Legends of Abreia series
Trust…Hope…Together…
This book is filled with so much heart centered around a battle to overcome fears and become stronger while trusting and hoping for a better future. The sweet romance literally melts my heart. So far this book is my favorite in the series. I fell in love with the characters and was so proud of the growth they experienced throughout the book. The world building was captivating. The entire storyline grabbed my attention and held it from beginning to ending. Wonderful book!
“A path that allowed for allies…maybe even friends.”
“Love changes your course whether you intend it to or not.”
“A fiery heart had always burned beneath that quiet exterior.”
“It felt like coming home after a long journey - home in a way he’d never experienced it before. Safety, trust, companionship...”
“You cannot save someone who doesn’t want to be saved.”
"My path is always with yours."
"As long as I breathe you will never be alone again."
Trust…Hope…Together…
This book is filled with so much heart centered around a battle to overcome fears and become stronger while trusting and hoping for a better future. The sweet romance literally melts my heart. So far this book is my favorite in the series. I fell in love with the characters and was so proud of the growth they experienced throughout the book. The world building was captivating. The entire storyline grabbed my attention and held it from beginning to ending. Wonderful book!
“A path that allowed for allies…maybe even friends.”
“Love changes your course whether you intend it to or not.”
“A fiery heart had always burned beneath that quiet exterior.”
“It felt like coming home after a long journey - home in a way he’d never experienced it before. Safety, trust, companionship...”
“You cannot save someone who doesn’t want to be saved.”
"My path is always with yours."
"As long as I breathe you will never be alone again."
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