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Fated Born #2
Fated Reign
Denied the crown. Denied their love. Yet she will rise.
Faelyn just wants to be loved and accepted for who she is. But when her own father wants nothing to do with her, and the entire kingdom shuns her, it becomes hard to even love herself. Her fae ears and out-of-control magic only make things worse.
From the realm that provides souls to the human world, Ardenis suffers in silence, hiding away his forbidden love for Faelyn. An enemy kingdom, long seeking conquest, is poised to strike Faelyn’s city at its weakest, and he is powerless to save her.
But when natural disasters from the mortal realm begin occurring in Ardenis’s perfect world, their lives are thrown into chaos. The balance between worlds is in danger. While Faelyn fights for her life and kingdom, Ardenis must uncover the reason for the imbalance and fight for their existence.
FATED REIGN is the second book in the young adult fantasy series for readers who crave magic, romance, and adventure. The books are best read in order.
Faelyn just wants to be loved and accepted for who she is. But when her own father wants nothing to do with her, and the entire kingdom shuns her, it becomes hard to even love herself. Her fae ears and out-of-control magic only make things worse.
From the realm that provides souls to the human world, Ardenis suffers in silence, hiding away his forbidden love for Faelyn. An enemy kingdom, long seeking conquest, is poised to strike Faelyn’s city at its weakest, and he is powerless to save her.
But when natural disasters from the mortal realm begin occurring in Ardenis’s perfect world, their lives are thrown into chaos. The balance between worlds is in danger. While Faelyn fights for her life and kingdom, Ardenis must uncover the reason for the imbalance and fight for their existence.
FATED REIGN is the second book in the young adult fantasy series for readers who crave magic, romance, and adventure. The books are best read in order.
436 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 2, 2023
29 people are currently reading
467 people want to read
About the author
Kristin L. Hamblin
5 books65 followersKristin L. Hamblin writes young adult romantic fantasy stories full of unforgettable friendships, forbidden love, and strong female characters who kick butt on their way to happily ever after. She lives in Oklahoma with her husband, four daughters, and a menagerie of pets including two wiener dogs, Ruby and Sunny.
Kristin loves her readers and loves getting to know them! Connect with her on social media or say hello at kristinlhamblin.com
Kristin loves her readers and loves getting to know them! Connect with her on social media or say hello at kristinlhamblin.com
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
July 20, 2023
4.5!! Two separate worlds built so well you can picture them?! Twists and turns that literally had me re-reading it says ‘NO WAY’ and actually gasping out loud scaring my friend lol The characters are all written so thoughtfully that you connect and they have those same personalities when they come back.
March 31, 2023
Fated Reign by Kristin hamblin
🩸⚔️👑🗝️✨🔥
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Review:
There are so many things I loved about this book, I’m not even sure where to start! Hamblin can write tragedy with commitment, and I so appreciate that, she also writes such compelling love stories and her characters are flawed in very compelling ways. Faelynns character development was incredible, I went from loving her to hating her (while she hated herself) and then back to loving her when she finally stepped into her destiny! Ardenis is thousands of years old, but just now learning how to handle human emotions and his outbursts and difficulties brought so much excitement to the Acanthan scenes. Hamblin makes the reader feel so much just from the style of her writing. In book 1, you could feel the monotony of an emotionless world in Acantha, in this book, you can feel the frustration and anger that Faelynn feels towards herself! It’s really well done!
One thing I think is important to note: this novel deals with some really intense content! I loved it for its brutal fight scenes and morally questionable moments, but I do think it falls into NA more than YA.
The ending is incredible, like… jaw dropping, head spinning, I need book 3 asap!
🩸⚔️👑🗝️✨🔥
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Review:
There are so many things I loved about this book, I’m not even sure where to start! Hamblin can write tragedy with commitment, and I so appreciate that, she also writes such compelling love stories and her characters are flawed in very compelling ways. Faelynns character development was incredible, I went from loving her to hating her (while she hated herself) and then back to loving her when she finally stepped into her destiny! Ardenis is thousands of years old, but just now learning how to handle human emotions and his outbursts and difficulties brought so much excitement to the Acanthan scenes. Hamblin makes the reader feel so much just from the style of her writing. In book 1, you could feel the monotony of an emotionless world in Acantha, in this book, you can feel the frustration and anger that Faelynn feels towards herself! It’s really well done!
One thing I think is important to note: this novel deals with some really intense content! I loved it for its brutal fight scenes and morally questionable moments, but I do think it falls into NA more than YA.
The ending is incredible, like… jaw dropping, head spinning, I need book 3 asap!
October 20, 2023
This series seriously seems to get better and better.
I really love the two worlds, and how they interact with each other. They are each uniquely built, but so well done!!
I love that the female characters are presented as strong and capable, and aren’t held back by typical gender norms. I’m immediately going to be starting book 3!!
I really love the two worlds, and how they interact with each other. They are each uniquely built, but so well done!!
I love that the female characters are presented as strong and capable, and aren’t held back by typical gender norms. I’m immediately going to be starting book 3!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 29, 2023
just amazing 🤩
I have loved both books in this series so far and can’t get enough. This will definitely be a reread for my and I will be recommending this series to everyone. Kristin is an amazing actor.
I have loved both books in this series so far and can’t get enough. This will definitely be a reread for my and I will be recommending this series to everyone. Kristin is an amazing actor.
September 13, 2023
The plot was amazing. I fell in love with Faelyn and what she represented. The character development was beautiful. So much heartache and perseverance
February 26, 2023
A magnificently imaginative and thrilling fantasy.
Kristin L. Hamblin has created two fantastically beautiful worlds that are full of expressive and endearing characters. Their journeys carry you along between two worlds; moved by a gripping plot full of peril and warfare, heartfelt relationships, betrayals and loss, and timeless love. I highly recommended losing yourself in this book!
I look forward to reading the next, and anticipate this being the next big series on everyone’s ‘must reads’ lists.
Kristin L. Hamblin has created two fantastically beautiful worlds that are full of expressive and endearing characters. Their journeys carry you along between two worlds; moved by a gripping plot full of peril and warfare, heartfelt relationships, betrayals and loss, and timeless love. I highly recommended losing yourself in this book!
I look forward to reading the next, and anticipate this being the next big series on everyone’s ‘must reads’ lists.
March 7, 2023
I was hooked with this book. Book one was so beautiful and pulled me in, and this book did as well. Each character is so compelling and strong. It is such a beautiful concept to have a storyline that includes and melds a life before life with this life. I love how the traits and personalities of each character stay with them even when they forget everything and are born again. Seriously, I 100% recommend this book, not only for the great storyline and characters, but for the thought process it will create long after you finish reading it. Love Kristin’s writing and can’t wait for Book 3!!
June 22, 2023
Must read! This book was absolutely amazing. It exceeded my expectation! The novel itself is beautifully written with each story playing out and connecting wonderfully throughout. The journey of the characters is cleverly presented to where you're completely engulfed in the progression and its almost as if youre feeling the same feelings they are. I absolutely loved it and would recommend! The ending has me begging for part 3!
June 18, 2024
OMG! This book kept me on my toes the entire time! I ate it up! I loved that it had major plots happening in both worlds at the same time and that it would come together quickly, but also leave you wondering about what’s coming next. It totally kept me engaged the entire time I was reading, and I didn’t want to put this book down! This book kept me reading way past my bedtime. Who needs sleep? Absolutely loved it! I’m super curious to see how the story comes to an end in the last book.
August 19, 2023
My in-laws visited for the very first time and I spent the entire time absolutely glued to my kindle. I bought this book the second I finished the first one.
Do you know what I did the second I finished this one? Immediately harassed the author about when the third one will be coming out because I NEED TO KNOW WHAT HAPPENS!
An absolute 5 star read and one of my favorite fantasy series ever.
Do you know what I did the second I finished this one? Immediately harassed the author about when the third one will be coming out because I NEED TO KNOW WHAT HAPPENS!
An absolute 5 star read and one of my favorite fantasy series ever.
March 3, 2023
Wow! I didn't want to put this down. I can't wait for book 3.
Magic
Underdog rises
Power of friendship
Magic
Underdog rises
Power of friendship
January 26, 2025
Couldn't put it down!
Omgosh so many twists and left me at the edge of my seat! This series is so freaking good I can't wait for book 3! I am officially obsessed!
Omgosh so many twists and left me at the edge of my seat! This series is so freaking good I can't wait for book 3! I am officially obsessed!
February 23, 2023
Rating: 5✨
Spice: 0🌶
Thank you to the author for this eARC opportunity! Like always, this review is voluntary and honest.
WOW, Kristin! This book to summarize it, was beautifully written. I fell in love with this just as much or even MORE than the first book. This book is one with betrayals, first loves, loves lost. There's loss of loved ones, loss of self & yet also finding one’s self. Kristin developed the plot tremendously well, even those you would consider side plots that get woven into the main story so perfectly! The emotional rollercoaster you embark once you start this book will be 100% worth it.
Also, the way "love" is such a big part of this story, this series as a whole, is just BEAUTIFUL. Seriously, it is not even the romantic kind of love that it focuses on, but a bigger type of love. A love that can withstand all hardships, pain, time, everything.
Faelyn, I adore her, my heart is HERS. Her story brought tears to my eyes so many times. She went through so much pain & moments that would tear one down completely, & yet she found strength to not only fight for what was hers, but for those she wants to protect. To lead. Her journey and her character development was emotional to see. I can't wait to see what is next for her.
Ardenis' journey is definitely not an easy one. His journey of learning the different types of emotions he is feeling for the first time, while also living through the pain of loving someone you cannot have, in a world where you aren't supposed to feel anything? And the LONGING of a forbidden love, where you cannot even be near the one you love and cherish most? So much angst and pain. Add on top of that all of the weight and responsibility of being the only fater in his world. My heart hurt.
This book and series are a MUST READ! 🤍
Spice: 0🌶
Thank you to the author for this eARC opportunity! Like always, this review is voluntary and honest.
WOW, Kristin! This book to summarize it, was beautifully written. I fell in love with this just as much or even MORE than the first book. This book is one with betrayals, first loves, loves lost. There's loss of loved ones, loss of self & yet also finding one’s self. Kristin developed the plot tremendously well, even those you would consider side plots that get woven into the main story so perfectly! The emotional rollercoaster you embark once you start this book will be 100% worth it.
Also, the way "love" is such a big part of this story, this series as a whole, is just BEAUTIFUL. Seriously, it is not even the romantic kind of love that it focuses on, but a bigger type of love. A love that can withstand all hardships, pain, time, everything.
Faelyn, I adore her, my heart is HERS. Her story brought tears to my eyes so many times. She went through so much pain & moments that would tear one down completely, & yet she found strength to not only fight for what was hers, but for those she wants to protect. To lead. Her journey and her character development was emotional to see. I can't wait to see what is next for her.
Ardenis' journey is definitely not an easy one. His journey of learning the different types of emotions he is feeling for the first time, while also living through the pain of loving someone you cannot have, in a world where you aren't supposed to feel anything? And the LONGING of a forbidden love, where you cannot even be near the one you love and cherish most? So much angst and pain. Add on top of that all of the weight and responsibility of being the only fater in his world. My heart hurt.
This book and series are a MUST READ! 🤍
August 23, 2023
BOOK REVIEW
Fated Reign by Kristin L. Hamblin
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/ 5
❕potential spoilers❕
While learning primarily about pre-mortal Acantha and Acanthan politics in the first book as opposed to Thera, I was dying to have more glimpses into the happenings in the mortal lands, and Kristin delivered. The first book set us up for Faelyn and her story, and in this second book we get to see Faelyn’s story progress. The storyline move RAPIDLY, but not so much in the way that I felt things were too rushed. There are twists and turns around every corner, which constantly kept me on my toes.
I loved seeing Faelyn grow into herself and her fate, wrangling her angry outbursts and mastering her powers. I also loved getting to know more secondary characters as the story progressed. I feel like I know both Acantha and Thera like they’re real places. The scene description in Kristin’s writing in phenomenal.
Y’ALL. Seeing Ardenis long for Faelyn all the way from Acantha was heartbreaking. Every time he mentioned his fate of being born farther into the future, I admit I do a little eye roll. I’m a hopeless romantic, so of course I wanted Ardenis and Faelyn to be together sooner rather than later.
What a cliffhanger!! So much anticipation up to this point. I cannot wait to see what happens.
Overall, both Fated Reign and Fated Born have set us up for the conclusion of the series, the last book in the Fated Born trilogy. Although I have an idea of what the third book will entail, I know I’m in for quite the ride.
Fated Reign by Kristin L. Hamblin
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/ 5
❕potential spoilers❕
While learning primarily about pre-mortal Acantha and Acanthan politics in the first book as opposed to Thera, I was dying to have more glimpses into the happenings in the mortal lands, and Kristin delivered. The first book set us up for Faelyn and her story, and in this second book we get to see Faelyn’s story progress. The storyline move RAPIDLY, but not so much in the way that I felt things were too rushed. There are twists and turns around every corner, which constantly kept me on my toes.
I loved seeing Faelyn grow into herself and her fate, wrangling her angry outbursts and mastering her powers. I also loved getting to know more secondary characters as the story progressed. I feel like I know both Acantha and Thera like they’re real places. The scene description in Kristin’s writing in phenomenal.
Y’ALL. Seeing Ardenis long for Faelyn all the way from Acantha was heartbreaking. Every time he mentioned his fate of being born farther into the future, I admit I do a little eye roll. I’m a hopeless romantic, so of course I wanted Ardenis and Faelyn to be together sooner rather than later.
What a cliffhanger!! So much anticipation up to this point. I cannot wait to see what happens.
Overall, both Fated Reign and Fated Born have set us up for the conclusion of the series, the last book in the Fated Born trilogy. Although I have an idea of what the third book will entail, I know I’m in for quite the ride.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 21, 2024
What a sequel! 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
There is a million different scenes I could write loads about but I’ll try to keep this as brief as possible.
First off I absolutely loved and appreciated the character progression following the first book.
Alongside this the author also managed to very successfully introduce some new characters, who fit into the story very nicely in my opinion.
And I look forward to seeing how they are incorporated into the next book.
Faylen is one of my favourites characters in the book.
She endures a lot of hardship but eventually bounces back stronger with a fire in her soul, ready to fight for justice and I love that about her.
The war/ battle scenes are intense but in an engrossing and gripping way that made me want to keep reading.
Trust me I’m not normally a fan of scenes like that but I think the balance in this book
is really good.
The scenes have enough detail to keep you engaged and wanting to know what happens next.
But in my opinion they are not gory enough to be off putting which I think can be a hard balance to strike sometimes so I am very impressed by the authors skill.
If you enjoyed the first book just as much as I did. (I left a review for the first one if you would like to read it.)
Then you should really read this one because I think you’d really enjoy it.
I’ve already downloaded the third book and it’s ready for me to dive into very soon. 😄
Congratulations on a fantastic sequel Kristen.
There is a million different scenes I could write loads about but I’ll try to keep this as brief as possible.
First off I absolutely loved and appreciated the character progression following the first book.
Alongside this the author also managed to very successfully introduce some new characters, who fit into the story very nicely in my opinion.
And I look forward to seeing how they are incorporated into the next book.
Faylen is one of my favourites characters in the book.
She endures a lot of hardship but eventually bounces back stronger with a fire in her soul, ready to fight for justice and I love that about her.
The war/ battle scenes are intense but in an engrossing and gripping way that made me want to keep reading.
Trust me I’m not normally a fan of scenes like that but I think the balance in this book
is really good.
The scenes have enough detail to keep you engaged and wanting to know what happens next.
But in my opinion they are not gory enough to be off putting which I think can be a hard balance to strike sometimes so I am very impressed by the authors skill.
If you enjoyed the first book just as much as I did. (I left a review for the first one if you would like to read it.)
Then you should really read this one because I think you’d really enjoy it.
I’ve already downloaded the third book and it’s ready for me to dive into very soon. 😄
Congratulations on a fantastic sequel Kristen.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 25, 2023
Wow, Fated Reign kept me on the edge of my seat the ENTIRE time I was reading it. About 30% of the way in I was losing sleep because I needed to know what would happen. Fated Reign picks up right where Fated Born ends - you will want to read the first book in the series first before picking up this book. Faelyn (Laida) continues her journey on earth as the rejected daughter of a king and the possesor of powerful magic, while Ardenis stays behind as a watcher. Both have to trust the Fates that they can complete their separate missions in their journey of existance. Another interesting character enters the series, and for the sake of spoilers I will not name him, but I will say I'm still not sure he can be trusted even after finishing the book. I can't wait for book 3 of the series!
Content considerations: mild language and an off camera sex scene.
Thank you to the author for the ARC. I was not required to leave a positive reivew.
Content considerations: mild language and an off camera sex scene.
Thank you to the author for the ARC. I was not required to leave a positive reivew.
March 18, 2025
Ardenis added nothing.
Frustrating that there has been no character growth or maturity for ardenis. He still can't control his emotions like a toddler, he still can't hold himself together around Hector. It's off putting and I won't be completing the series because of it.
I actually got to the point of enjoying faelyns story and not reading about ardenis, i speed read his parts to get back to her. I think, although an interesting concept, having ardenis as a watcher just doesn't work if the main focus is about faelyn and thera. If he would have developed with the story this might be a different matter, but it's so jarring that he is still so emotionally unintelligent and immature.
Its a real shame because Faelyns story is 5 star worthy, but the Ardenis story line isn't. I really don't understand why he wasn't given any arc or development.
Frustrating that there has been no character growth or maturity for ardenis. He still can't control his emotions like a toddler, he still can't hold himself together around Hector. It's off putting and I won't be completing the series because of it.
I actually got to the point of enjoying faelyns story and not reading about ardenis, i speed read his parts to get back to her. I think, although an interesting concept, having ardenis as a watcher just doesn't work if the main focus is about faelyn and thera. If he would have developed with the story this might be a different matter, but it's so jarring that he is still so emotionally unintelligent and immature.
Its a real shame because Faelyns story is 5 star worthy, but the Ardenis story line isn't. I really don't understand why he wasn't given any arc or development.
February 10, 2023
I thought the first one was wonderful.....but the 2nd one will take your breathe away!
I was lucky enough to be chosen as a Beta reader for Fated Reign, the 2nd book in the Fated Born series and have to say, it did NOT disappoint! The characters are vivid, the world building for the 2 separate worlds is fantastic, and the storyline grabs you and won't let go! The twists and turns are surprising and well thought out, and make the reader literally gasp. Absolutely fantastic read, with a very original story!
Don't walk, don't wait.....RUN and PREORDER this series as soon as possible!! You will NOT regret it!
I was lucky enough to be chosen as a Beta reader for Fated Reign, the 2nd book in the Fated Born series and have to say, it did NOT disappoint! The characters are vivid, the world building for the 2 separate worlds is fantastic, and the storyline grabs you and won't let go! The twists and turns are surprising and well thought out, and make the reader literally gasp. Absolutely fantastic read, with a very original story!
Don't walk, don't wait.....RUN and PREORDER this series as soon as possible!! You will NOT regret it!
February 27, 2023
Kristin does it again. This book was so well executed, I often forgot that there were essentially two stories happening at the same time. Ardenis and Faelyn are two of my favorites at this point. The romance was so beautifully orchestrated. The battles were so vivid. I loved getting to see the expanse of the world. I cannot wait for book three… please read this saga so you can endure this magical story with me. 👼
August 30, 2024
This was so good! With trilogies, I often worry about second book syndrome, but Fated Reign didn't suffer from that. It was even better than the first book! We follow Faelyn as she is shunned and denied her title as heir, and her eventual journey back. This is framed with Ardenis in Acantha watching everything that happens, and I love this element. I was genuinely surprised by what happened at the end, and I'm so excited to see how it all wraps up in the last book!
February 25, 2023
Enjoyed Fated Born, Kristen's first book, but this one is AMAZING! It picks up and just flies. I couldn't put it down! This book is so fun and there are several unexpected twists and turns. Fated Reign kept me continuing to turn the page all the way from the beginning. I would recommend the series to anyone looking for a great fantasy series. Can't wait for the end of this trilogy!
July 2, 2024
4.5 ⭐️ AMAZING!!!!!! Faelyn finally took back what is rightfully hers, Hector is absolutely selfish and unhinged for risking all of Acantha for some 🫢🤯 and Ardenis is going to be born before his fated time!! Whewwww, I need to read book 3 like yesterday!!
July 19, 2024
I have been enjoying this series so far. The concept has been unique enough to keep me going. Faelyn can be frustrating along with Ardenis but overall I find myself rooting for the characters and I want to know what happens next for them.
February 13, 2023
Fated Reign does not disappoint!! This book is fantastic bit of storytelling; beautifully interweaving original storylines with forbidden love, hold-your-breath battle scenes, and magic.
December 23, 2024
I just have to preface as much as I enjoyed the first book, this second was so much better IMO!! I definitely enjoyed the character development of Faelyn and her story. I am looking forward to book 3.
January 21, 2025
Love. Love. Love. The ending was perfect. Cannot wait to read the next
August 12, 2023
Ardenis
Faelyn
The synopsis sounded like this book would be from the perspective of Faelyn and like it left behind Ardenis and Acantha. I'm glad that wasn't the case. Faelyn is now 8. Since this is a romance I wonder if either we'll get a fast forward in time until she's able to find a love interest, or Ardenis and Amelia will find love. It might be weird, though inevitable, for Ardenis to watch Faelyn/Laida find love but I don't know which yet will be the story in this book.
There is a change in narration. I'm seeing Faelyn's POV and now Ardenis' POV, but maybe just while he isn't watching the story? May be interesting. Still has the same feeling though because book 1 also had two stories. It still feels like the same world.
The passage of time is interesting to read. This is how Ardenis sees things. This is how Faelyn is learning to see things. Characters that become important to her (and in a way to me) passing away is a weird feeling. She spent, what?, 50 years just meandering about. That has to be lonely. She's also in her 90's at this point and being wooed by a 20 year old man. Hmm.
This is a really good read, an interesting story.
I never understand this trope where she has to choose her "people" over him. Really? You can't love and fight at the same time? It doesn't make sense. Now, her not aging while he ages and wanting to prevent the pain of loss... that I understand. Even the difficulty of them not aging equally over time and people not understanding that she doesn't age. I kind of get that too because of the danger it could cause her. Even though he was willing to relocate with her every few years. But can't love and lead at the same time? Nope, bad reason.
Otherwise, their breakup was done well.
I dont really get how Donovan accepted training and protecting her so quickly. Like okay maybe he was convinced by what he saw but I feel like I wasn't shown enough to understand his reasoning.
Ardenis' story is really falling to the wayside until something seems to be breaking with the watching pool. Like the author just remembered he's in this story..
At 80% and getting into her taking her leadership role. I'm struggling a little to want to read now. The war build up and war planning is just not my thing, never my thing.
I don't know if there will be a third book but I can't imagine Ardenis' story wrapping up nicely in 10 chapters.
The breaking in Acantha should have been introduced much earlier. Book 2 is tying his emotions from book 1 to the breaking happening now. It feels like they are 2 completely disconnected plot lines. Not to mention the breaking wasn't introduced until maybe halfway into book 2.
I finished. Only 2 books. I'm at a loss.
First, Kian's almost death, then no death... tears, hard tears. I admit the sad scenes really get to me. It really hurts when these characters die. But he didn't die and that brought sad tears because he almost died.
Second, what, Ardenis? His fated vision of being amongst tall towering buildings and the woman reaching out to him? Him seeing Faelyn fated to die during Amarae's lifetime? What? Does Amarea have a long life or was his fating misleading in appearing like modern day? So, his response to feeling pain over her dying is to be born? Is the last book? If so, he was cheated out of this book even though he's the main character, his threads aren't resolved, and he just ends it? What?
Then Faelyn dying? Or she is going to die sooner than expected? Before Ardenis was fated to be with his love? All of this just built up to a battle at the end, and then the whole story is just over?
Ardenis deserves more.
I don't know if there will be a book 3. If there isn't, then this ending is very disappointing. Some comments suggest a book 3 but I don't see any actual indication of a 3rd book.
Okay, yes, her website confirms there will be a 3rd book. Not sure I'll be able to get back into the story in September, but we'll see.
4
Faelyn
The synopsis sounded like this book would be from the perspective of Faelyn and like it left behind Ardenis and Acantha. I'm glad that wasn't the case. Faelyn is now 8. Since this is a romance I wonder if either we'll get a fast forward in time until she's able to find a love interest, or Ardenis and Amelia will find love. It might be weird, though inevitable, for Ardenis to watch Faelyn/Laida find love but I don't know which yet will be the story in this book.
There is a change in narration. I'm seeing Faelyn's POV and now Ardenis' POV, but maybe just while he isn't watching the story? May be interesting. Still has the same feeling though because book 1 also had two stories. It still feels like the same world.
The passage of time is interesting to read. This is how Ardenis sees things. This is how Faelyn is learning to see things. Characters that become important to her (and in a way to me) passing away is a weird feeling. She spent, what?, 50 years just meandering about. That has to be lonely. She's also in her 90's at this point and being wooed by a 20 year old man. Hmm.
This is a really good read, an interesting story.
I never understand this trope where she has to choose her "people" over him. Really? You can't love and fight at the same time? It doesn't make sense. Now, her not aging while he ages and wanting to prevent the pain of loss... that I understand. Even the difficulty of them not aging equally over time and people not understanding that she doesn't age. I kind of get that too because of the danger it could cause her. Even though he was willing to relocate with her every few years. But can't love and lead at the same time? Nope, bad reason.
Otherwise, their breakup was done well.
I dont really get how Donovan accepted training and protecting her so quickly. Like okay maybe he was convinced by what he saw but I feel like I wasn't shown enough to understand his reasoning.
Ardenis' story is really falling to the wayside until something seems to be breaking with the watching pool. Like the author just remembered he's in this story..
At 80% and getting into her taking her leadership role. I'm struggling a little to want to read now. The war build up and war planning is just not my thing, never my thing.
I don't know if there will be a third book but I can't imagine Ardenis' story wrapping up nicely in 10 chapters.
The breaking in Acantha should have been introduced much earlier. Book 2 is tying his emotions from book 1 to the breaking happening now. It feels like they are 2 completely disconnected plot lines. Not to mention the breaking wasn't introduced until maybe halfway into book 2.
I finished. Only 2 books. I'm at a loss.
First, Kian's almost death, then no death... tears, hard tears. I admit the sad scenes really get to me. It really hurts when these characters die. But he didn't die and that brought sad tears because he almost died.
Second, what, Ardenis? His fated vision of being amongst tall towering buildings and the woman reaching out to him? Him seeing Faelyn fated to die during Amarae's lifetime? What? Does Amarea have a long life or was his fating misleading in appearing like modern day? So, his response to feeling pain over her dying is to be born? Is the last book? If so, he was cheated out of this book even though he's the main character, his threads aren't resolved, and he just ends it? What?
Then Faelyn dying? Or she is going to die sooner than expected? Before Ardenis was fated to be with his love? All of this just built up to a battle at the end, and then the whole story is just over?
Ardenis deserves more.
I don't know if there will be a book 3. If there isn't, then this ending is very disappointing. Some comments suggest a book 3 but I don't see any actual indication of a 3rd book.
Okay, yes, her website confirms there will be a 3rd book. Not sure I'll be able to get back into the story in September, but we'll see.
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