Kingdom of Chains

Kingdom of Chains #1

by Tanya Bird

She was trained to please. He was trained to kill.

Isabel Maddock is living a lie. She is betrothed to a man she loathes, living in a place she does not belong. But the home she craves no longer exists, and the people from her youth are gone. Or are they? The wastelands are calling, but they are not for the faint of heart. Luckily a certain defender is close by to keep her safe. Very close. Too close. Into the wastelands they go, equally unprepared for what they will discover…

Ryder Blackmane is a defender for life. His comrades are his family, and keeping them safe is all he has to offer the world. So when they are sent over the wall to investigate happenings in the east, he goes willingly, immune to everything outside of his orders. That is until he meets Lady Isabel. She is a caged bird whose scars call to his. Best to ignore the calls and follow orders. Follow orders. Follow orders. Loyalty is everything, but the lines are blurring…

Kingdom of Chains is a standalone medieval dystopian romance. If you like a dark setting, heart-pounding action, and witty dialogue, then this epic love story is for you.

Trigger warning: Domestic violence (not between hero and heroine).

Genres: Fantasy, Romance, Historical Romance, Dystopia, Historical, New Adult, Fiction

370 pages, Paperback

First published November 28, 2022

About the author

Tanya Bird is a RUBY award-winning author who lives in Brisbane with her hubby, three lively boys, a quirky greyhound, and a lazy whippet. Amid the chaos, she writes across a range romance sub-genres including historical, contemporary, and speculative. She is best known for her dark worldbuilding and high-emotion storytelling. A lover of horses, pancakes, and satire, Tanya dreams of one day attacking her rather long bucket list.

You can find her on Facebook @TanyaBirdAuthor, Instagram @tanyabirdauthor, TikTok @tanyabirdauthor or hiding in the pantry with her stash of chocolate.

Exclusive free reads available at tanyabird.com

Reviews

[⊹ Gabriela | Asternyx ⊹ · Rating 2 out of 5]

| DNF 20%

It's dissapointing when books have such an interesting premise, but falls short in execution.
I didn't want to DNF but I honestly don't think I'll enjoy it in the end, so I won't force myself to continue.

⇢ What to expect:
∘ New Adult
∘ Fantasy Romance
∘ Damsel in distress trope
∘ Arranged Marriage
∘ Forbidden Love
∘ Bodyguard trope
∘ Forced Proximity

[❁ lilyreadsromance ❁ · Rating 3 out of 5]

We're back to the Defenders world baby!

I missed this world terribly and so glad that the author decided to do a spinoff book (and hopefully another series?)

In this one, we have a new setting, a different kingdom aside from the Kingdom of the Walls. Introducing 4 new defenders and this time, they were assigned to the troubled Hereford earldom where one of our defenders fell for the future countess.

As for the trope goes, there are the bodyguards trope, closed proximity, perhaps a little forbidden relationship going on there. It was a fade-to-black fantasy romance first of all if that is something you want to know. For me, the absence of graphic sexy times didn't matter much since the plot and the characters always won me over.

With that said, I didn't quite enjoy this one like I did with the original series. Kingdom of Chains wasn't as dark and bleak as Chadora descriptively. I wanted more of the settings actually, the conflicts, the rebellions and the worldbuilding. Next, the characters also didn't shine out that much for me. They were not dull per say, but reading about them, it felt as if they were always on the periphery of the story rather than the sole focus of them, although there were moments where they shone. Aside from that, the romance was also left a lot to be desired. Our hero was a little too skittish for my liking while the girl did most of the chasing here.

I still like this spinoff though, despite the weaknesses it possessed. It read so easily and the world of the Defenders is as stellar as ever. I'm just excited to see what story she'll write down next!

[Nessa]

DNF.

This wasn't bad but once you're used to well edited and best-seller written stories, this one read like an amateur and it wasn't a page turner. For me the entire plot lacked excitement. I didn't feel the MCs chemistry, or their connection and the characters were flat. If this was a manga it would have maybe been acceptable thanks to the pretty art, but otherwise I was conned by the blurb and expected something Laura Thalassa-ish or similar but I got...this. Needless to say, the characters were all predictable and I usually like angst and attraction to go hand in hand. Sadly, this was a clean romance.

[Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

Huge thanks to Tanya Byrd for this e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.

First can we have a moment of silence to admire this cover... Wow, still stuns every time. Onto the review.

This story follows our heroine Isabel Maddock as she prepares herself to marry the arrogant and abusive Lord Hodge. In the meantime, our hero, Defender Ryder Blackmane has been assigned to escort and guard Lord Hodge to his "work farm" in another city. When he sees what is going on between the future newly weds, his need to save is too strong to handle. Is it love at first sight or is it the need to defend others?

I really love Tanya Byrds writing and this book didn't disappoint. This story reintroduced some old characters that I didn't realize I missed until I was entering their lives again. We were also introduced to some new character that I immediately fell in love with. There's talk of these characters having their own story and I really hope they do. The heroine very much plays the damsel in distress in this one which complimented our hero well. On the flip side, I do have to say Mr. Ryder Blackmane has stolen my heart both on and off the battlefield. Give me a fictitious man who dominates with a sword and I'm all in. We are introduced to the rebel groups as well which was exciting and this made for an exciting plot. The world building was whole and kept me interested in the outcome of the story. Overall this was a solid story which did not disappoint.

I gave this story 4.5 stars. I had some issues with the main heroine in this one (this is completely a personal preference) but it didn't turn me off enough to keep me from reading or wanting to recommend this book. Pick it up, you won't be disappointed.

[Jaclyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an emotional journey! I was very invested in the main character and felt the ups and downs with her. Tanya Bird is a favorite of mine and her ability to create amazing stories of romance in the midst of really vivid medieval times is unique and well…amazing.

[Lacie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kingdom of Chains is a story of hate, love, suffering, and hope. A young women trapped in a cage, wanting to fly. Just trying to do what is best for everyone around her, even if it hurts her in the process. Every time it seemed like Isabel's story was going to wrap itself up in a pretty bow with a happily ever after, she would be knocked down again and worse off from before. So, if you are one of those people who enjoy being in emotional turmoil while reading, this is the book for you.

[NotTheTea · Rating 2 out of 5]

🏰🦅Their romance is not balanced on both sides. Ryder was reluctant despite falling for Isabel. Like everyone knows how crazy he's for her but the minute she comes to him the switch just turns off only protection remains. I think even Isabel mentioned how he acted like it was too easy to leave her. He has his love here and his suddenly not dead brother. It doesn't make sense that he still left. I know his friends there are his family but it wasn't the reason. I don't understand his freaking loyalty. And Isabel was too eager imo. She was literally on guard and kept glancing at him so that he didn't run away. Always initiate the kiss and you know what. Waiting and moping after him. He only comes to save her(until at the end obviously) and boy did she need saving....I lost count. "sigh" it's just pathetic. I might have liked the book if they shaved some of Isabel's pining.🦅🏰

[Carol · Rating 5 out of 5]

I do not know how Tanya Bird does it, but each book she writes is magic! Kingdom of Chains centers on the enigmatic Blackmane from Kingdom of Walls, and the ethereal seeming Isabel, whose outward nature belies a core of steel. She is trapped in a betrothal with a man who believes he owns her. But how can you own a woman who shares a spirit with an eagle? You can't, and in one delicately crafted scene that joins them, Isabel lets Blackmane see her as she really is, scars included. This beautiful scene is pure Tanya Bird! A short encounter with no words exchanged, is the beginning of their battle to be together. Tanya Bird breaths life through words. Her worlds and people are 3 dimensional, and always welcome us in!

[Keri · Rating 5 out of 5]

I always love reading a new Tanya Bird story! Kingdom of Chains take place in the same world as the Kingdom of Walls series this time following Defender Blackmane. He was a favorite of mine from Defender of Crowns. While I still love Blackmane I loved Isabel even more. She is the perfect combination of vulnerability and strength. I really love that she is not great at the bow or knife throwing, yet she is very strong in other ways and very loyal to those she loves. She has been beaten down by her betrothed, Lord Lunatic as Blackmane calls him, but as soon as she learns just how truly devious he is she begins to fight back. There is heartbreak, laughter and a really great ending. Basically, everything I have come to expect from a Tanya Bird novel.

[Victoria · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tanya can’t write a bad story. She is an amazing author and I love her humor. This story is no different. It delivers on all the feels. This story does feel a bit rushed in comparison to her other stories but still an enjoyable read.

[tema · Rating 5 out of 5]

OH. MY. GOD.

All I can say is i need me a RYDER. 😭

[Jennifer Delport · Rating 3 out of 5]

Well written and a good read but nothing to get excited about. Good clean romance.

[AARR · Rating 5 out of 5]

The song Ivy by Taylor Swift is so fitting for this book, especially the line: "he's gonna burn this house to the ground" The romance between Blackmane and Isabel was perfect, I'm starting to feel like Tanya Bird can do no wrong...

I absolutely loved the Kingdom Of Walls series and I was so excited to see a continuation of that world. I hope Tanya Bird is planning on turning this into a spin off series. I would really love to see a book featuring Tatum at some point, I remember liking him all the way back in the Defender Of Crowns and him having an even bigger role in Kingdom of Chains made me like him even more. Can't wait to see what's next!

[Anila · Rating 3 out of 5]

I didn’t realize this was a spin-off until I started reading and while I enjoyed being back in this universe, I think the book was a bit bland compared to the original series. In my opinion, Ryder and Isabel were lacklustre and boring. Their romance wasn’t filled with as much angst and longing, which is what TB is usually known for. Their forbidden romance just fell flat for me.

The plot was also repetitive. Isabel would get saved by Ryder, only to keep being forced back to Hodge. It got annoying after the third time it happened. I did like how Isabel stood up for herself more in the second half, but she was still basically a damsel in distress.

I don’t expect to love every book an author puts out, so this is just a miss for me. However, I do still plan on reading Tatum’s book as Ryder’s friendship with the other three defenders was one of the highlights of the book for me.

[Fran · Rating 5 out of 5]

Although this story can be read as a standalone, it would be a shame to do it that way. In my opinion nothing can substitute for the world building and background we got in the precursor series Kingdom Of Walls.

As that series began Chadora was a dystopia suffering from constant rain, famine and evil leadership. It spawned 'Defenders', the enforcer class trained to be ruthless and robotic—their purpose being continual oppression of the lower classes through the harshest of means. In this follow-up (Kingdom of Chains) five years has passed and the rain and famine have subsided and Chadora now has honorable leadership, but outside its walls corrupt factions still exist, one of which is enslaving members of weakened clans all for one man's personal gain. Defenders now function as an army for Chadora's security. They're still trained to be superior fighting machines, but now retain a bit more of their humanity, putting them in ethically dubious positions.

In the midst of this setting we find Blackmane, a particularly staunch Defender now tasked with guarding the safety of Hodge, The Earl of Hereford. Hodge is merciless and obsessed with Isabelle, a lovely unselfish woman willing to give herself up to Hodge for the sake of her family's comfort and security. Isabelle has a cosmic connection to a golden eagle named Margery who serves as eyes and ears for Isabelle when needed. Isabelle and the slaves need saving (more than once) and so we see Blackmane at the heart of multiple nail-biting scenes of daring rescue. He's every bit the Hero that historical romances are known for—fearless, unfailing, indestructible—so no wonder Isabelle falls for him.

There are truly wonderful side characters in this story that would make excellent main characters should future stories be written for them—Ita and Tolly in particular, since their rebel status holds a lot of potential. Margery serves as a brilliant plot device for moving the story forward. And the villain is especially villainous. The story is pretty black and white—good vs. evil—touching on themes of obligation, obsession, exploitation, and defending the defenseless—some even parallel to present day situations. Ms. Bird's stories are easy to read and expertly plotted, making her one of my favorites in this genre. Don't cheat yourself out of the excitement of reading the Kingdom Of Walls series, as well as this follow-up Kingdom Of Chains.

[Meghan · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked it. I didn't love it.

I didn't realise it was a spin off from another series until the end which might not have helped. The world building wasn't enough for me, I felt like I was getting half the story but assume if you've read the other books it makes sense.

The plot was good. The characters were OK, if a little unrealistic. They were a little too good and too selfless.

The daughter that traded herself for the mother who ignored her bruises and was basically forcing her to marry someone abusive. The hero who abandoned everything friends/ career for a girl he barely knows.

Also he finds his long lost bother. The brother he blames himself for his death and he barely seems to care. He's apparently been tortured by his death but theres barely a reunion and he's happy to leave him again in a very dangerous position in a rebel gang. ( though he does go back to help train eventually)

I hate the common trope authors seem to love doing, of the heroine being smart and logical but then sleeping with the hero even though he's made it clear he's planning to leave and having no concern about pregnancy or how it might effect her future prospects.

I liked the relationship between the defenders it was funny and quite adorable, I loved the loyalty they had to each other.

I don't agree with the other reviews wanting more "spice". I feel like a strong book doesn't need to resort to random "spicy" scene to keep readers entertained.

Overall, the book was well written and enjoyable but not very memorable. I didn't get immersed in the story.

[Kimberly · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75/5

The Good:

Likeable characters — I honestly didn’t have a favorite character but all of them were pretty well rounded. The banter was actually funny at times between the main male character and his squad. I found myself cackling at their remarks and friendly insults. The plot was well done — but I do feel like more background was needed.

The Bad:

Not a lot of world building and it took me awhile to figure out what century they were in, and where this was taking place. Tbh I thought it was more of a fantasy book but it was a little of it and a bit of more modern world mixed into it. I wish there had been more explanation as to the background of this book.

The Ugly:

Tbh it was the narrator, but, personally I just don’t like male audio narrators doing female voices. And the fact that it seemed repetitive towards the last 10-15 chapters — the same decisions, mistakes and cycle was continued on until about 4 chapters left. The ending was anticlimactic… like all of that just to be wrapped up.

[Kassie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely riveting! This is the perfect continuation and spin-off to the Kingdom of Walls series. I truly enjoyed getting into the mind of the stoic and slightly mysterious defender Ryder Blackmane. Tanya Bird really found the right woman to capture his attention. I don't think he could have settled for anyone other than the damsel in distress Isabel. Be that as it may, Isabel is truly a fighter, and wasn't going to give up. Both show they will fight against all odds for their rights and freedoms. But sometimes, the fight just might leave anyway and there is literally no way to escape the injustices of the world. I was appalled by many of the grievances the people were being put through, but I also celebrated the victories of our champions. Just when you think all is well, Tanya Bird throws a wrench and you continue the roller-coaster ride. It was eye opening and so very realistic. I absolutely adored it!

[Lindsey✨ · Rating 1 out of 5]

1.5⭐️This had potential but it was disappointing. This story wasn’t a romance story like I was hoping. It was a story about how a young girl grows up under the watchful eye of an obsessed man who runs her life by using her family, while waiting for her to grow older for marriage.
I wanted more of a relationship between her and Ryder, the defender. When there was a chance of us receiving some kind of happy romance scene, it was a very fade to black spice scene 😐👎🏼
This story was also very slow paced and reflecting back, there was no real plot beyond the crazed obsessed Lord. There was no working towards anything really.

**Warning: murder, concentration camps, grooming vibes**

Worth the read?: NO
Reread?: NO

Read if you like:
-arraigned marriage
-rebels
-warrior solider MMC
-kept lady FMC
-forced proximity
-slow burn

[Claire Greco · Rating 3 out of 5]

To be honest, this book felt like it was written on Wattpad. It had the premise for a really good book, but was really repetitive and had little to no character development or growth. There were lots of points in the story I hoped that the writing would turn around, but it didn’t. I didn’t feel connected to the characters, the world, or the plot. I can see where others would like it as a quick read though and did not have poor grammar… so I’m rating this book a 3 ⭐️

I’d recommend this book to middle to high schoolers if they don’t mind gore.

It’s supposed to be new adult, but there isn’t any sexy time… which IMO kinda is what makes a story for adults. It is hinted that they did the deed but that’s it.

Tropes:
• damsel in distress
• arranged marriage ( sorta , she is engaged to someone she doesn’t want to get married to )
• body guard
• forbidden love
•

[Jericho McKraven · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love Tanya Bird! I adore this series and was super excited to dig into Blackmane's story.

I am obsessed with the sense of melancholy Bird weaves through her tales. I love the fact that she's able to make so many diverse personalities within a single world. And I love that everyone gets their happily ever after despite the odds.

Kingdom of Chains had a distinct Beauty and the Beast vibe - it also had a little less entertainment value than some of Bird's other books, but honestly, I think that's just personal preference. I loved the first book in this series the most, and don't think anything can top it. 🤭 But they're all really good.

I highly recommend ALL of Tanya's books and demand everyone go out and become fans, instantly.

Please and thank you. 😊

[Jacqui Walton · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is another excellent book written by Tanya Bird.
As with all her books once you start reading it is so hard to put it down till you have finished. They draw you in and you feel all the emotions as if you are there part of the story.
Isabel is betrothed to a man she hates and Ryder Blackmane is a defender for life.
The first time he sees Isabel is one of my favourite moments in their story.
There is plenty of action to get your hearts pumping fast but also lots of funny and heart wrenching moments too.
This is one book I will definitely be re reading.
It is a spin off from the Kingdom of walls trilogy, which is well worth reading but is not a necessity to enjoy this book.

[Sierra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely fantastic! Page turner. Stayed up all night reading it. I love Blackheart ;) Tanya has a way of creating the perfect man, every single time! I really like being in the defender world again. I wanted to throat punch Hodge & her Mom for being such cowards…but the swoony way Ryder puts them in their place is perfection. I know I say this with every book but I ABSOLUTELY love ANYTHING Tanya Bird writes. Definitely check this one out & read all her other because they’re fantastic. She has a way of giving you ALL the feels without the descriptions, if ya know what I mean. Can’t recommend her enough!

[Courtney · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book wasn't perfect, but it was an enjoyable and fast read. The plot was interesting and the characters were likeable (despite a few uncomfortable comments made by some of the other defenders). The biggest issue with the book was the lack of emotion in it. I do appreciate that it was fast-paced, but I would have been more invested if the author had taken the time to let more of the MC's emotions shine through. Most books end up having way too many inner monologs and they become repetitive, but this novel could have used a little more descriptions of each character's inner turmoil and passion.

[Jess Lammers · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have yet to read a Tanya Bird story I didn’t enjoy, but I think I love each new one more than the last. Bird seems to follow a bit of plot pattern in her books (someone is always imprisoned), which I’ve never minded, but this book broke with her tradition a bit. I could roughly guess the ending, but there were plenty of great plot twists that made it enjoyable along the way. I especially appreciate that she writes her characters in a way that makes it feel like you could be friends with them, and I love how her series keep developing the existing characters. I can’t wait to read the second book in this series!

[Katie S · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tanya always writes the most amazing books! This was a can't put down kind of read which led to a very late but enjoyable night of reading. I loved every second of Isabel and Blackmane's story and she does such a great job of building worlds and relationships.

Tanya is the one author I recommend time and time again because she has never disappointed and this one fully delivers from laughs, to stolen moments it has it all!

[Iris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another one of Tanya Birds books, another week with only the story on my mind, I found it hard to concentrate on other things than reading. The characters take you along in the story, their minds and their feelings. Margery might be my favourite sidekick ever, and I decided I might give up on dating and want to marry a character instead...
Absolutely recommend!

[Lucia · Rating 2 out of 5]

"Kingdom of Chains" presents an interesting medieval dystopian romance but ultimately fell flat for me. Isabel's struggle against her egotistical captor is compelling, but the lengthy and repetitive back-and-forth made it frustrating. I found it difficult to connect with the characters, and I don't feel inclined to continue with the saga. Overall, it was just an okay read.

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another fabulous book thats can be either a stand alone or a follow up to other series. Tanya dose a great job of transporting you into the situation as well as giving you a deep sense of connection to the characters. I couldn’t put it down- very enjoyable read.

[Reign Galovin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved reading about Isabel, Blackmane, and Margery. Tanya has a vivid imagination that she portrays through her writing so well. Her books don't disappoint, and she lives up to that with this book (and all of her books!).