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The Bargainer #2
Un himno extraño
Callypso Lillis ha sobrevivido a las garras de Karnon, el rey loco, y a su retorcida prisión. Pero lleva el recuerdo de su cautiverio en la piel y todo apunta a que el Ladrón de almas sigue ahí fuera.
Cuando una celebración fae empuja a Callie y a Desmond al Reino de Flora, se llevan su investigación con ellos. Pero no hay lugar más salvaje que los grandes salones de bailes fae, y ni siquiera el Negociador puede salvar a Callie de las intrigas reales.
Las hadas juegan a juegos peligrosos. Algunas quieren amor; otras, venganza, y otras quieren cosas demasiado indecibles para pronunciarlas. Una cosa es segura: nadie es quien parece ser. Ni siquiera Des, quien se vuelve más enigmático con cada secreto.
El Reino de Flora también tiene sus propios secretos, desde árboles que sangran hasta esclavos marcados y guardias desaparecidos.
Algo se está moviendo en la tierra donde todo crece, y si Callie no tiene cuidado, reclamará todo y a todos los que ama… incluida a ella.
Cuando una celebración fae empuja a Callie y a Desmond al Reino de Flora, se llevan su investigación con ellos. Pero no hay lugar más salvaje que los grandes salones de bailes fae, y ni siquiera el Negociador puede salvar a Callie de las intrigas reales.
Las hadas juegan a juegos peligrosos. Algunas quieren amor; otras, venganza, y otras quieren cosas demasiado indecibles para pronunciarlas. Una cosa es segura: nadie es quien parece ser. Ni siquiera Des, quien se vuelve más enigmático con cada secreto.
El Reino de Flora también tiene sus propios secretos, desde árboles que sangran hasta esclavos marcados y guardias desaparecidos.
Algo se está moviendo en la tierra donde todo crece, y si Callie no tiene cuidado, reclamará todo y a todos los que ama… incluida a ella.
416 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 27, 2017
10054 people are currently reading
57572 people want to read
About the author
Laura Thalassa
53 books25.4k followersFound in the forest when she was young, Laura Thalassa was raised by fairies, kidnapped by werewolves, and given over to vampires as repayment for a hundred year debt. She’s been brought back to life twice, and, with a single kiss, she woke her true love from eternal sleep. She now lives happily ever after with her undead prince in a castle in the woods.
… or something like that anyway.
When not writing, Laura can be found scarfing down guacamole, hoarding chocolate for the apocalypse, or curled up on the couch with a good book.
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… or something like that anyway.
When not writing, Laura can be found scarfing down guacamole, hoarding chocolate for the apocalypse, or curled up on the couch with a good book.
Never want to miss a release? Sign up for my newsletter HERE
Like to discuss my books? Join my Facebook fan page HERE
Official Site: http://www.laurathalassa.com/
Newsletter:
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 6,330 reviews
April 16, 2018
My reading experience of this was weighed down by a lot of little criticisms I have, which is a nice way of saying that this book needs a LOT of editing. From plot points to actual spelling mistakes, a lot of small issues nagged at me throughout the entire book, so the book didn’t flow at all and it could be difficult to slog through.
An overview of some prominent issues I had:
-The MC’s best friend in this book is black, and the author takes no liberties reminding the reader about it. I know that stereotypes are sometimes true, but the trope of the sassy black girl was really over the top. Every line out of this character’s mouth begins with the word “BITCH” or “GURL,” and every other word is a curse word. At one point, the MC tells this girl, “Jesus, I love you” and she responds, “Black Jesus loves you too, you crazy skank” and i’m just like…. why. It's like this throughout both books but gets really bad in this one.
-This was in book 1 and I ignored it, but I can’t be silent anymore. A MACAROON AND A MACARON ARE NOT THE SAME THING. STOP CALLING THEM MACAROONS IM GONNA SCREAM THEY’RE MACARONS
-the first half of this book was interesting with the character dynamics between callie and des and training and callie getting more comfortable with her new body, but the last half takes place at an international meeting of high lords (or whatever they’re called in this book lol), and I think it was poorly done, and therefore boring. I wanted a lot more out of the world building in this book, so getting everyone together with little explanation and imagery of the different courts was lackluster. I liked when Des took Callie to all the different cities in Night Court to show her around, but there was little done to explain Fauna Court and the other leaders, so it kinda went over my head and I skimread parts about the drama between the courts.
-There's a character named Green Man???? he literally introduces himself as Green Man. it just felt so awkward and lazy
-for a book about a rape survivor and someone who was kidnapped to be impregnated against her will, this book takes rape very lightly. at one point the couple is making a crude joke about anal and callie says something to the effect of 'it'll never happen' and des responds something like 'i think you're forgetting that you owe me favors and i can take it whether you want me to or not' which is kinda a recurring theme in the book but was especially problematic in that scene.
This isn't an editing problem, but I also just really hate the trope of characters keeping secrets from one another, and Des was such an ass in this book because he wouldn't tell Callie anything she wanted to hear. Furthermore, people would accuse him of some pretty heinous things and he'd just be like "Huh. Yup. I might've," really sarcastically, and it was so unnecessary. Just be transparent. Or, if you don't want to give away secrets, make it look a little less manipulative and shitty.
I really want to like Callie and Des. If this were a character study about their relationship with fantasy elements thrown in, I'd probably give it 4 stars. But there's so much division between them and they don't get a ton of alone time, and when they do, it's like 4 pages.
So again, I'm disappointed because these books have sooooo much potential, and I wish they could just be cleaned up so that they can read to their full potential. As is, it's really disappointing.
An overview of some prominent issues I had:
-The MC’s best friend in this book is black, and the author takes no liberties reminding the reader about it. I know that stereotypes are sometimes true, but the trope of the sassy black girl was really over the top. Every line out of this character’s mouth begins with the word “BITCH” or “GURL,” and every other word is a curse word. At one point, the MC tells this girl, “Jesus, I love you” and she responds, “Black Jesus loves you too, you crazy skank” and i’m just like…. why. It's like this throughout both books but gets really bad in this one.
-This was in book 1 and I ignored it, but I can’t be silent anymore. A MACAROON AND A MACARON ARE NOT THE SAME THING. STOP CALLING THEM MACAROONS IM GONNA SCREAM THEY’RE MACARONS
-the first half of this book was interesting with the character dynamics between callie and des and training and callie getting more comfortable with her new body, but the last half takes place at an international meeting of high lords (or whatever they’re called in this book lol), and I think it was poorly done, and therefore boring. I wanted a lot more out of the world building in this book, so getting everyone together with little explanation and imagery of the different courts was lackluster. I liked when Des took Callie to all the different cities in Night Court to show her around, but there was little done to explain Fauna Court and the other leaders, so it kinda went over my head and I skimread parts about the drama between the courts.
-There's a character named Green Man???? he literally introduces himself as Green Man. it just felt so awkward and lazy
-for a book about a rape survivor and someone who was kidnapped to be impregnated against her will, this book takes rape very lightly. at one point the couple is making a crude joke about anal and callie says something to the effect of 'it'll never happen' and des responds something like 'i think you're forgetting that you owe me favors and i can take it whether you want me to or not' which is kinda a recurring theme in the book but was especially problematic in that scene.
This isn't an editing problem, but I also just really hate the trope of characters keeping secrets from one another, and Des was such an ass in this book because he wouldn't tell Callie anything she wanted to hear. Furthermore, people would accuse him of some pretty heinous things and he'd just be like "Huh. Yup. I might've," really sarcastically, and it was so unnecessary. Just be transparent. Or, if you don't want to give away secrets, make it look a little less manipulative and shitty.
I really want to like Callie and Des. If this were a character study about their relationship with fantasy elements thrown in, I'd probably give it 4 stars. But there's so much division between them and they don't get a ton of alone time, and when they do, it's like 4 pages.
So again, I'm disappointed because these books have sooooo much potential, and I wish they could just be cleaned up so that they can read to their full potential. As is, it's really disappointing.
Read
May 27, 2017 A Strange Hymn is out now! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071PC3T8C
Happy reading!
Happy reading!
April 6, 2020
OKAY. GUYS. GALS. GUYS. GALS. JUST LISTEN.
WOW. WOWOWOWOWOWOW.
I didn’t initially pick up this series for the plot. I was here for the sexual tension and slow burn romance.
BUT GUYS. THE EXCELLENCE OF THIS SERIES SNUCK UP ON ME.
In this book, Callie IS SASSY AF. SO SASSY I CANNOT TURN OFF THE CAPS LOCK BECAUSE I AM SO PROUD AND WOULD SHOUT IT FROM THE ROOFTOPS IF I COULD.
One of my favorite quotes of the entire book:
“The three fae rulers, me, and the Green Man all are seated around a table, enjoying an awkward-as-fuck breakfast.”
To that I say,
Des = A+ book boyfriend
Temper = A+ book bff
Me = dead
Have to go to Barnes and Noble now. Bye.
WOW. WOWOWOWOWOWOW.
I didn’t initially pick up this series for the plot. I was here for the sexual tension and slow burn romance.
BUT GUYS. THE EXCELLENCE OF THIS SERIES SNUCK UP ON ME.
In this book, Callie IS SASSY AF. SO SASSY I CANNOT TURN OFF THE CAPS LOCK BECAUSE I AM SO PROUD AND WOULD SHOUT IT FROM THE ROOFTOPS IF I COULD.
One of my favorite quotes of the entire book:
“The three fae rulers, me, and the Green Man all are seated around a table, enjoying an awkward-as-fuck breakfast.”
To that I say,
Des = A+ book boyfriend
Temper = A+ book bff
Me = dead
Have to go to Barnes and Noble now. Bye.
June 7, 2025
“Solstice expectations: everyone shall set aside their quarrels for this week, hold hands, and sing kumbaya.
Solstice reality: everyone shall come within an inch of death at least once.”
Callie. You had ONE goddamn job.
Quite simple, this is a captivating series. And the sequel was pretty great to be reunited with my favorite characters while progressing the plot.. despite some shortcomings...
I absolutely adore this series for its morally grey characters, fiercely savage duo dynamic, and the magic woven throughout it
In other words, its another book I read just for the main-squeeze *no regrets*
Desmond Flynn the Bargainer. He fully embraces his monster that combines iconic fey predator *rhysand vibes* with sarcastic manipulative thief trope *kaz vibes*
“Our relationship was forged on bloodshed and solidified through deception. I am the dark creature that craves sex and destruction, and he is the king of it.”
Our morally grey character who is sinister, ruthless, cruel and arrogant with carefully calculated plans that are suddenly thrown in a wretch when he meets another beautiful monster
Callie, the siren within craves blood lust and wants to be feared
Together, these two were the perfect combination — Their constant clashing but drawn to each other, the sass, the moral dilemmas, the fucking insanity of it all just made me want to read more!
“If youre is going to break the law at least invite me along,” he says, pushing away from the tree.
His face changes seconds later, when he takes in the scene.
“What happened?” Des asks, all humor gone from his voice.
I wipe my bloodied hands off on my dress. “I think I found the missing soldiers.”
It was enjoyable seeing these two deal with regular relationship shit that all just elevated because of their chaotic possessive nature... and the whole war thing going on.
꧁Secondary Characters꧂worked to give insight into the past of our MCs and figure out everyone's role in the fight to come
Phaedron an old gang friend
Aetherial the captured day court soldier makes a reappearance
Malaki, lord of the dreams
“Controlling dreams is a Night Kingdom trait. It’s possible that someone’s targeting you while you sleep, perhaps the same someone who’s taking soldiers.”
He’s coming for me.
“The Thief of Souls,” I whisper.”
side note: Why the actual fuck was this guy not consulted with Callie constantly having the nightmares prophetic threatening trees. she keeps making this stupid mistake of not working with the people around her*sighhhh*
and now my favorite, the obligatory book best friend Temper !!
After the first book, I was quite disappointed from her limited role of info-dumping in the first book. BUT NO MORE!
I was CaCkLiNg on the floor at how goddamn funny these two were, as they supported each other with Callie joining the fey world and Temper just wanting some fey wine
“So,” Temper says when I re-enter my rooms, “I propose we blow some shit up, then leave.”
Des doesn’t look completely opposed.”
Absolutely relished in her devious addition to the group, she shared Callie's best qualities as brash, capable, and vivacious with her uncontrollable magic background added devilishly good fun to read
꧁Writing Style꧂
The elements that I loved about the first book was how the flashbacks PERFECTLY set up the world and left us, readers, begging to know what changed over time that displaced Des from savior to a stranger
And I enjoyed how this sequel continued to address that dynamic of time loss while working to establish the couple dynamic
But here's where this book kinda failed for me...
This book is bad at differentiating. It was bad at saying there are two bad guys. It was bad at differing the cultures of the varying kingdoms. It was bad at differing Callie from her Siren. It was bad at differing present Callie with Callie before the kidnapping.
I mean seriously, the whole beginning is just Callie being some passive asshole complaining about getting access to knowledge *wtf*.
“Would you like to join me?”
After what I saw yesterday in his throne room?
I shake my head. “Have fun.”
I can't believe she seriously walked away from being a power player after demanding to be part of the decision-making
This was such a whiny teenager attitude that made no sense. The denial on her part just made everything all the more annoying. It was like pulling teeth trying to get her to progress in her own story.
Even with these critiques and all the things that are clearly WRONG about this series starting with the messed-up shit that is our main characters. I love it.
Overall, Callie's siren has a wicked and violent point of view that gives hilarious inner dialogue about the ongoing events. The epic setup of this dark violent world is entertaining and I kept wanting to know more. Des is a mean motherfucka. And together these insane characters have such a unique chemistry with secondary characters having more importance and the world-building still developing.
I definitely recommend checking out if you enjoy a great blend of fey and fantasy – sexy, dark, romantic, witty, action filled plot, filled with fantastic characters.
November 19, 2022
We are all like the bright moon, we still have our darker side.” —Kahlil Gibran
What a fabulously awesome tale!!!! This is book two from The Bargainer series. Des has come to save callie from the mad king and the price of kidnapping his mate is death. But before his death he breathed into callie his magic and now she has wings and scales! As callie tries to adjust to her new apperance her bond with des continues to grow and she's learning theirs more to learn about her mate. But with the death of karnon the mad king the disappearance 's haven't stopped more warriors are going missing,so he couldn't be the thief of souls. As des shows callie his world and she meets those close to him,their are enemies hiding in the shadows plotting not only his death,but his mates as well ! So many fabulous characters!!! From des right hand Malaki Lord of dreams to Janus king of day. And the bad guys are interesting too,like the green man king and mate to mara queen of fauna. But one of my fave characters is callie's bestie temprance( temper )she's one bad ass bitch!! And her one liners and humor is friggin hilarious!!! She's a very powerful sorcerous who doesn't take shit!!! When she comes looking for callie she blows a hole thur the night kingdom and takes a fairy hostage and all hell breaks lose!! If she isn't threatening to gut or mame someone she's f##king! Love her!!! Awesome twists and turns and it isn't over yet, it's only begun as one by one A crack forms along one of the glass coffins, spider-webbing across the transparent surface. Wood splinters down the center of an oak. A devilish child smiles. And then, as one, a thousand upon a thousand eyes snap open. The time has come.
Next and final book in this series Dark Harmony!💋💖
What a fabulously awesome tale!!!! This is book two from The Bargainer series. Des has come to save callie from the mad king and the price of kidnapping his mate is death. But before his death he breathed into callie his magic and now she has wings and scales! As callie tries to adjust to her new apperance her bond with des continues to grow and she's learning theirs more to learn about her mate. But with the death of karnon the mad king the disappearance 's haven't stopped more warriors are going missing,so he couldn't be the thief of souls. As des shows callie his world and she meets those close to him,their are enemies hiding in the shadows plotting not only his death,but his mates as well ! So many fabulous characters!!! From des right hand Malaki Lord of dreams to Janus king of day. And the bad guys are interesting too,like the green man king and mate to mara queen of fauna. But one of my fave characters is callie's bestie temprance( temper )she's one bad ass bitch!! And her one liners and humor is friggin hilarious!!! She's a very powerful sorcerous who doesn't take shit!!! When she comes looking for callie she blows a hole thur the night kingdom and takes a fairy hostage and all hell breaks lose!! If she isn't threatening to gut or mame someone she's f##king! Love her!!! Awesome twists and turns and it isn't over yet, it's only begun as one by one A crack forms along one of the glass coffins, spider-webbing across the transparent surface. Wood splinters down the center of an oak. A devilish child smiles. And then, as one, a thousand upon a thousand eyes snap open. The time has come.
Next and final book in this series Dark Harmony!💋💖
January 6, 2020
This installment finally felt less like fanfiction and more like its own story. I’d be lying, though, if I said the fact that Des reads like Rhysand’s inappropriate little cousin wasn’t the main reason why I’m enjoying this series. 🤷♀️
dnf
April 16, 2018●DNF●
Another bad-ass turned special snowflake. sigh
Callypso was an awesome siren PI and now I spent half the book with her just being clueless and worrying that she's not pretty anymore. And of course, let's not forget the whole lot of nothing that's happening.
I liked the first book. I found the story and characters really interesting and I picked this one up right after I finished, but the more I read the more "meh" I felt.
Sad.
Once again, I blame my expectations. maybe I'll give it another shot in the future.
Another bad-ass turned special snowflake. sigh
Callypso was an awesome siren PI and now I spent half the book with her just being clueless and worrying that she's not pretty anymore. And of course, let's not forget the whole lot of nothing that's happening.
I liked the first book. I found the story and characters really interesting and I picked this one up right after I finished, but the more I read the more "meh" I felt.
Sad.
Once again, I blame my expectations. maybe I'll give it another shot in the future.
June 11, 2017
HOLY SHIT THAT WAS INTENSE. I feel like if you haven't latched on to the characters it might be abit slow paced (I kind of felt like it was aswell but I didn't mind since I love the characters, the world and all the lore that comes with it!
But damn the second half of the story went from 0 to 100! I love the whole Thief of Souls plot twist, he's such an interesting and elusive character ❤️ and the Des/Temper violent-threateningtokillanyonewhohurts Callie was the best. I really hope there is a book on Temper/Malaki!!!!! They are different to Des and Callie but have all the traits I love in a ship :)
But omg y'all thief of souls is so cunning!
He is practically the King of Hybern of this series AHHH and the sleeping women soldiers and creepy kids??? Please let there be a war in the next book and all the kindgoms unite against him!
---
OHMMMYGOD ITS FINALLY OUT!
*shoves everyone out of the way*
Btw, great series for people who enjoyed A Court of Thorns and Roses (DES IS THE CLOSEST THING TO RHYS FOR ME RIGHT NOW HONESTLY PRAISE ALL NIGHT COURT/KINGDOM RULERS) by Sarah J. Maas - DEFINITELY FOR MATURE READERS THOUGH! Since it is well, more graphic than ACOTAR book's sex scenes
Cannot wait to get my hands on this and delve into it :D
But damn the second half of the story went from 0 to 100! I love the whole Thief of Souls plot twist, he's such an interesting and elusive character ❤️ and the Des/Temper violent-threateningtokillanyonewhohurts Callie was the best. I really hope there is a book on Temper/Malaki!!!!! They are different to Des and Callie but have all the traits I love in a ship :)
But omg y'all thief of souls is so cunning!
He is practically the King of Hybern of this series AHHH and the sleeping women soldiers and creepy kids??? Please let there be a war in the next book and all the kindgoms unite against him!
---
OHMMMYGOD ITS FINALLY OUT!
*shoves everyone out of the way*
Btw, great series for people who enjoyed A Court of Thorns and Roses (DES IS THE CLOSEST THING TO RHYS FOR ME RIGHT NOW HONESTLY PRAISE ALL NIGHT COURT/KINGDOM RULERS) by Sarah J. Maas - DEFINITELY FOR MATURE READERS THOUGH! Since it is well, more graphic than ACOTAR book's sex scenes
Cannot wait to get my hands on this and delve into it :D
May 2, 2022
So A Strange Hymn is the second book in this fantastic series.
We are back in the Fae world with Desmond Flynn AKA The Bargainer and King of the night and Callypso Lillis the human siren and Desmond's love.
We begin this story right where we left things previously.
You can find my review of book 1 Rhapsodic here
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Here we have the aftermath of Callies kidnapping and subsequent escape and also her reaction to her new body wings, claws and scales which was an addition I also loved.
Callie finds herself now a permanent resident of Otherworld residing with her fae mate Des as her new body accessories make it difficult for her to return back to the human world.
now In the fae lands and here to stay as his mate and queen.
This second book in the bargainer series is much more focused on the relationship between Callie and Des and I loved this aspect completely.
It's also very apparent throughout this of the depth of feeling between these two lovers.
I take his face in my hands and silence him with a kiss. This love between us is bigger than him, bigger than me. “From flame to ashes, dawn to dusk, for the rest of our lives, be mine always, Desmond Flynn,” I whisper against his lips, reciting the same words that first took him away from me. They still hold the same wonderful, fearful power they did when I first spoke them, even after paying my tithe for them. Des draws me closer, pulls me in tighter. I keep forgetting that beyond his cockiness and power, there’s a part of him that’s vulnerable, unsure. I said those words to him seven years ago, but seven years is a long time to go without hearing them—an eternity for two soulmates. I feel him shudder against me as he responds, “Till darkness dies.”
“When I close my eyes, all I see is the shape of your face and the brightness of your smile. You are the stars in my dark sky, cherub.” That isn’t at all what I expected to come out of his mouth. My heart, I’m finding, is simply not big enough to hold everything I feel for this man.
So this instalment is set in the world of the fae and also more heavily features Callies best-friend Temper, her dramatic arrival further throws things into disarray.
Then there's the summer solstice held in the Flora court that Desmond and Callie have been invited to.
So it's off to Solstice for the whole Night Court where it's apparent that Callie has a target on her back not just because of her humanity.
The mystery of the sleeping warrior woman and those creepy-ass kids is still prevalent throughout all the Fae kingdoms and suspicion is rife, with each faction believing and suspecting each other of secrets and lies.
There is also male Fae disappearing and there are fingers pointing directly at her mate.
We get a bit more of an insight into The Bargainers past, as he finally opens up to Callie, we get to realise just what has shaped this Fae king into the man or Fairy he is today.
it also becomes apparent why fairy and supernatural alike fear this Dark Fae king as we are given true demonstrations of the strength of Des's Power as he struggles with his need to shield and protect his mate from those who would do her harm.
Solstice expectations: everyone shall set aside their quarrels for this week, hold hands, and sing kumbaya. Solstice reality: everyone shall come within an inch of death at least once. Fairies everywhere in the room begin to panic as darkness cloaks our surroundings. I feel the breath of a hundred different types of magic trying to illuminate the room only to be snuffed out by Des’s power. Along the walls, I hear the sound of plants rustling. It takes several seconds for me to realize that they’re withering, dying. “Before there were plants before there were animals before there was even light, there was darkness,” Des says, his voice silky smooth. “From that darkness, all of our deepest desires and most secret fears were born. And I know all of yours. Perhaps I should share them
Des is a total babe, He is badass to the bone, totally fairy fangirling here.
So as events finally convene we are at last given some answers only for other questions to rise in their place.
And as we are given closure we are also left anticipating the next instalment of this addictive series,
I for one can't wait to sink my teeth into it.
Give this a go, this is such a fabulous series that I highly recommend.
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
www.beckiebookworm.com.
September 8, 2021
Sale Alert: Kindle Daily Deal 8Sep21 $3.99
Darker, Dirtier and even more Delicious.
In Rhapsodic we had flashbacks to a teenage Callie and how she and the Bargainer built a bond together. But A Strange Hymm is all set in the present and since there are no children about anymore it gives the author free ranges to delve into some more sinfully delightful debauchery with the adult all the time Callie.
Desmond, “He tastes like fairy wine and dirty thoughts.” Flynn is in fantastic form. He might be mostly sweet to Callie unless he is being delightfully wicked but he is King of Night and enemies beware he can and will be brutal.
Callie is dealing with the changes forced on her by Karnon in Rhapsodic. While some would be so happy to have wings and wouldn’t mind so much the beautiful scales on her forarms that lead to some talons she is struggling a bit with it.
There was a very small period of time in the story where I wanted to slap her and tell her to get over it. I mean WINGS…Hello embrace the change. Des loves them so her insecurities don’t last long.
Temperance who we only got a little taste of in the last book really shines in this one. Every girl should have such a devoted friend that they would blast their way into Faery to get you. I really loved seeing Callie with her bestie especially since we follow them to the Solstice celebration in the land of Flora and with a Queen who has never met a woman she didn’t want to try to demean and subjugate. Plus, in the land of Flora humans are still treated as slaves and since both Callie and Temperance are human it is going to be a bumpy ride.
Don’t forget though we still have sleeping women, creepy children and missing male soldiers and this plot line is going to get us a little closer to the Thief of Souls and what his end game might be.
A Strange Hymm was darker than the first book of the series just because the Fae are a bit cruel in nature and get them all together that is bound to come out in spades. I loved the progress we made on the main plot of the series and it is creepy indeed.
Callie, once she got over her initial pity party is fantastic and Des…well Des I want to sweep away to be my own Nightmare. I get so caught up in them as a couple, I love the way they trade secrets for beads and play truth or dare. The growth of their relationship is captivating and I love being in a world where Desmond can make a bargain with the stars so they spend an evening in Callie’s hair. Sure it is a love story first and a mystery second but it is the best of both worlds.
This was a fantastic follow-up to Rhapsodic.
Darker, Dirtier and even more Delicious.
Our relationship was forged on bloodshed and solidified through deception. I am the dark creature that craves sex and destruction, and he is the king of it.
In Rhapsodic we had flashbacks to a teenage Callie and how she and the Bargainer built a bond together. But A Strange Hymm is all set in the present and since there are no children about anymore it gives the author free ranges to delve into some more sinfully delightful debauchery with the adult all the time Callie.
Desmond, “He tastes like fairy wine and dirty thoughts.” Flynn is in fantastic form. He might be mostly sweet to Callie unless he is being delightfully wicked but he is King of Night and enemies beware he can and will be brutal.
Callie is dealing with the changes forced on her by Karnon in Rhapsodic. While some would be so happy to have wings and wouldn’t mind so much the beautiful scales on her forarms that lead to some talons she is struggling a bit with it.
“Rather than making lemonade out of lemons, I’m pretty much cutting open those lemons and squeezing them into my eyes.”
There was a very small period of time in the story where I wanted to slap her and tell her to get over it. I mean WINGS…Hello embrace the change. Des loves them so her insecurities don’t last long.
Temperance who we only got a little taste of in the last book really shines in this one. Every girl should have such a devoted friend that they would blast their way into Faery to get you. I really loved seeing Callie with her bestie especially since we follow them to the Solstice celebration in the land of Flora and with a Queen who has never met a woman she didn’t want to try to demean and subjugate. Plus, in the land of Flora humans are still treated as slaves and since both Callie and Temperance are human it is going to be a bumpy ride.
Don’t forget though we still have sleeping women, creepy children and missing male soldiers and this plot line is going to get us a little closer to the Thief of Souls and what his end game might be.
A Strange Hymm was darker than the first book of the series just because the Fae are a bit cruel in nature and get them all together that is bound to come out in spades. I loved the progress we made on the main plot of the series and it is creepy indeed.
Callie, once she got over her initial pity party is fantastic and Des…well Des I want to sweep away to be my own Nightmare. I get so caught up in them as a couple, I love the way they trade secrets for beads and play truth or dare. The growth of their relationship is captivating and I love being in a world where Desmond can make a bargain with the stars so they spend an evening in Callie’s hair. Sure it is a love story first and a mystery second but it is the best of both worlds.
“You were everything I never knew I wanted. You were chaos. You were desperation. You were the most mysterious secret I’d ever come across. Everything about you drew me in—your innocence, your vulnerability, hell, even your tragic life. You were the most captivating creature I’d ever come across.”
This was a fantastic follow-up to Rhapsodic.
April 3, 2025
The second book was a disappointment for the first half of it. It was plotless. You can see Callie and Desmon been doing almost nothing except maybe going to few places here there and god knows doing what. This book could have been cut up short and go straight to the point but the author was stalling to the point that I almost DNF this.
But the story (finally) decided to pick up afterwards and it was much better that I decided, I could finish the series. At least they already knew who the Thief of Soul isbecause if they still prolong the plot, I swear I'm ready to throw hands.
The part with the Green Man, the Sacred Oak and the Flora Queen were eerily good and I'm glad that I find myself enjoying the third half of it. Really hope the last book would be more engaging and this book is just part of the middle book syndrome.
But the story (finally) decided to pick up afterwards and it was much better that I decided, I could finish the series. At least they already knew who the Thief of Soul is
The part with the Green Man, the Sacred Oak and the Flora Queen were eerily good and I'm glad that I find myself enjoying the third half of it. Really hope the last book would be more engaging and this book is just part of the middle book syndrome.
January 25, 2022
3.5 Stars
This review might contain some spoilers from the first book.
I enjoyed reading this but it didn't meet my expectations and first I'll get over what I didn't like so I can save the best for the last 😌
-In the last book I liked Callie a lot. I could resonate with her at some places and if not, I could understand where she was coming from. In this book however, I was really irritated by her for the first 75% of the book (at least). There were a few moments here and there, where I glimpsed the Callie from the first book but...few. However in the last 20% or so, I started liking her a little more, even if it's not as much as I did at the end of the first one.
-The first one had more romance than the suspense and I thought that since they're together now, this would be more focused on the mystery of it but sadly, it was pushed to the background amidst the descriptions of fae kingdoms, their romance and it only gained the spotlight at the end. The end is mostly why this book didn't drop any lower in my ratings and I'll come to it later 🙈
-I liked the descriptions and information on various kingdoms, fairies and their laws but some of those things felt half formed and vague to me. It's rare that I ever say this but I wanted the book to be longer so as to accommodate all the aspects: the romance, mystery, informations and give them a concrete foundation. I feel that there was potential and it wasn't fully utilised.
-Callie's behavior was really stupid, immature and cowardly for all she represented and also considering the fact that she was a PI. I told you that I didn't like her in the least in more than half of the book. She just jumped to conclusions, plus the way she posed her questions to Des was not how she should've approached them. She is trying to pry out personal information from the Lord of Secrets, so she should at least try to find it in such a way that gives her the most information!
And if people say that Desmond should be more forthcoming, it is important to realize that it is against his base nature to be open to someone because one way or the other, his magic is more powerful and controlling than him, so I expected her to be a little more persuasive and clever but I will take what I can, I suppose.
-The plot was absolutely Predictable ™. I mean, I saw it coming from miles and miles away. The things that were 'revealed' regrading the Thief Of Souls in the last few chapters were so obvious that I had guessed them at the end of the last book itself! Other factors based on the newer additions in this book were not that difficult to observe either.
Now on to the best parts:
- Desmond Flynn. The King of the Night can have me, body and soul, no doubt about it 😌. He was so supportive, so sweet and THE scandal among scandals, he is a romantic. He empowered Callie all throughout and never let her feel like she was beneath anyone because she was human and not a fairy. Au contraire, he treated her like his Queen (which ofc she's going to be, eventually). Aaand, he loves Indian food, like fairy dude, you're so deep into my heart because one hidden way to it goes through my stomach and you did it.
- Temperance 'Temper' Darling. This sorceress right here can put every best friend to shame and she's so damn funny lmao. I loved her more than Callie in this one, but she deserved every single bit of it. I'll quote one of her analogies-
“I’ll say this for the Bargainer,” Temper says, “he throws a mean right hook. That pretty-boy king went down like a boner in church.”
-The last few chapters. If I didn't rate this book any lower, it's just because it picked pace and gave us something concrete and substantial after all that bitching about fairies. I loved Callie during this part and the turns that came here were solid, albeit predictable, but not vague or half cooked like some things in the middle.
- The was niiice, since we get to know more about Des's past through it.
So, it was not as much as I expected but I did end up a happy reader at the end, with a hell lot of temptation to just jump onto the third one but I ain't gonna miss our Bargainger's novella just like that.
And then , as one, a thousand upon a thousand eyes snap open. The time has come.
This review might contain some spoilers from the first book.
I enjoyed reading this but it didn't meet my expectations and first I'll get over what I didn't like so I can save the best for the last 😌
-In the last book I liked Callie a lot. I could resonate with her at some places and if not, I could understand where she was coming from. In this book however, I was really irritated by her for the first 75% of the book (at least). There were a few moments here and there, where I glimpsed the Callie from the first book but...few. However in the last 20% or so, I started liking her a little more, even if it's not as much as I did at the end of the first one.
-The first one had more romance than the suspense and I thought that since they're together now, this would be more focused on the mystery of it but sadly, it was pushed to the background amidst the descriptions of fae kingdoms, their romance and it only gained the spotlight at the end. The end is mostly why this book didn't drop any lower in my ratings and I'll come to it later 🙈
-I liked the descriptions and information on various kingdoms, fairies and their laws but some of those things felt half formed and vague to me. It's rare that I ever say this but I wanted the book to be longer so as to accommodate all the aspects: the romance, mystery, informations and give them a concrete foundation. I feel that there was potential and it wasn't fully utilised.
-Callie's behavior was really stupid, immature and cowardly for all she represented and also considering the fact that she was a PI. I told you that I didn't like her in the least in more than half of the book. She just jumped to conclusions, plus the way she posed her questions to Des was not how she should've approached them. She is trying to pry out personal information from the Lord of Secrets, so she should at least try to find it in such a way that gives her the most information!
And if people say that Desmond should be more forthcoming, it is important to realize that it is against his base nature to be open to someone because one way or the other, his magic is more powerful and controlling than him, so I expected her to be a little more persuasive and clever but I will take what I can, I suppose.
-The plot was absolutely Predictable ™. I mean, I saw it coming from miles and miles away. The things that were 'revealed' regrading the Thief Of Souls in the last few chapters were so obvious that I had guessed them at the end of the last book itself! Other factors based on the newer additions in this book were not that difficult to observe either.
Now on to the best parts:
- Desmond Flynn. The King of the Night can have me, body and soul, no doubt about it 😌. He was so supportive, so sweet and THE scandal among scandals, he is a romantic. He empowered Callie all throughout and never let her feel like she was beneath anyone because she was human and not a fairy. Au contraire, he treated her like his Queen (which ofc she's going to be, eventually). Aaand, he loves Indian food, like fairy dude, you're so deep into my heart because one hidden way to it goes through my stomach and you did it.
- Temperance 'Temper' Darling. This sorceress right here can put every best friend to shame and she's so damn funny lmao. I loved her more than Callie in this one, but she deserved every single bit of it. I'll quote one of her analogies-
“I’ll say this for the Bargainer,” Temper says, “he throws a mean right hook. That pretty-boy king went down like a boner in church.”
-The last few chapters. If I didn't rate this book any lower, it's just because it picked pace and gave us something concrete and substantial after all that bitching about fairies. I loved Callie during this part and the turns that came here were solid, albeit predictable, but not vague or half cooked like some things in the middle.
- The was niiice, since we get to know more about Des's past through it.
So, it was not as much as I expected but I did end up a happy reader at the end, with a hell lot of temptation to just jump onto the third one but I ain't gonna miss our Bargainger's novella just like that.
And then , as one, a thousand upon a thousand eyes snap open. The time has come.
June 3, 2017
I'm not impressed... I got bored, a lot... Even though it started out strong from a certain point it lost its magic and I felt like it was dragging... The only thing that I can clearly remember is sex and how hot Desmond is.... I expected to get some answers but not only the questions I had from the first book weren't answered but I have new questions to add... Some somehow interesting things happened a few chapters before the end and that's because something had to happen in a whole book, I guess.... Let's hope the final book will pay off the disappointment of this one (not that I'm holding my breath)...
October 13, 2024
im so glad this didnt suffer from the middle book syndrome!! Im so far loving it
June 6, 2017
There is a whole lot of nothing happening in this book. Barely any page time is dedicated to the mystery we haven't solved and far to much page time is dedicated to fashion and Callies repetitive fawning over Des. I'm over halfway through it but I just can't go on, it's too bad because this series had so much potential.
April 10, 2022
Rated 3.5/5 stars
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June 7, 2017I am putting this on pause at 56%
I may come back to this, not sure yet. It's very different from the first book, and what's not clicking with me is the first book was character driven, about Callie and Des. This one is just A LOT of world building and exploring and I'm not very interested in what's happening. Could just be me.
I may come back to this, not sure yet. It's very different from the first book, and what's not clicking with me is the first book was character driven, about Callie and Des. This one is just A LOT of world building and exploring and I'm not very interested in what's happening. Could just be me.
August 22, 2018
I was so looking forward to this...
After the crazy cliffhanger from book 1, I was salivating for book 2, excited to see what was to become of Callie and her relationship with the Bargainer, not to mention all the sleeping warrior women. Not only do we have no real new answers, we have a bunch of new questions.
From the first book, I learned that Thalassa likes to drop little mystery bombs and then make you wait for the answers. They're little but enough to pique your curiosity like why fairies show their wings--it was a big deal in the first book, and she made us wait forever before the reason was revealed. I was prepared for her to do this again, even if I don't like it. The problem? She dropped the mystery bombs and left us hanging! That's unacceptable.
Time and time again, it's brought up how Desmond has been waiting centuries for Callie. Another character even says, "You haven't told her--?" But we're never told! And then there's the wings. There was a huge deal, as I mentioned, made in the first book about the fairy wings. They only flashed their wings to their betrothed (we finally found out at the end). But in the second book, because Callie can't put hers away, other fairies are keeping theirs out as a fashion statement, negating all the importance placed on it in book 1. Ugh!
On top of all this frustration, a lot of super secret conversations take place that we're never told about and other than Callie growing comfortable in her new form, the plot really doesn't move forward all that much. I'm extremely disappointed. This book is more about fashion than the incredible PNR that was book 1.
After the crazy cliffhanger from book 1, I was salivating for book 2, excited to see what was to become of Callie and her relationship with the Bargainer, not to mention all the sleeping warrior women. Not only do we have no real new answers, we have a bunch of new questions.
From the first book, I learned that Thalassa likes to drop little mystery bombs and then make you wait for the answers. They're little but enough to pique your curiosity like why fairies show their wings--it was a big deal in the first book, and she made us wait forever before the reason was revealed. I was prepared for her to do this again, even if I don't like it. The problem? She dropped the mystery bombs and left us hanging! That's unacceptable.
Time and time again, it's brought up how Desmond has been waiting centuries for Callie. Another character even says, "You haven't told her--?" But we're never told! And then there's the wings. There was a huge deal, as I mentioned, made in the first book about the fairy wings. They only flashed their wings to their betrothed (we finally found out at the end). But in the second book, because Callie can't put hers away, other fairies are keeping theirs out as a fashion statement, negating all the importance placed on it in book 1. Ugh!
On top of all this frustration, a lot of super secret conversations take place that we're never told about and other than Callie growing comfortable in her new form, the plot really doesn't move forward all that much. I'm extremely disappointed. This book is more about fashion than the incredible PNR that was book 1.
February 10, 2025
4.75
Kolejna książka i kolejne zakończenie które autorka może sobie wsadzić wiecie gdzie. NO JAK TAK MOŻNA ROBIĆ BIEDNYM CZYTNIKOM?!?!?!?!?
Kolejna książka i kolejne zakończenie które autorka może sobie wsadzić wiecie gdzie. NO JAK TAK MOŻNA ROBIĆ BIEDNYM CZYTNIKOM?!?!?!?!?
June 24, 2017
Meh, no fue tan bueno como el primero. El romance dominó por completo los aspectos interesantes de la novela, lo cual fue un gran fallo para mi. A lo mejor leo el siguiente, pero no va a ser una prioridad.
August 30, 2024
✅ Characters
✅ Plot
✅🆗 Intrigue / Politics
✅🆗 Romance
🆗 World-building
3.5 stars
The first one was better...
The first part of the book is interesting. Callie is getting more comfortable with her new body, she is trying to build back her confidence while navigating the politics of ruling a kingdom and the responsibilities coming along with being mated to a king.
Desmond is under a lot of pressure. He wants to protect his mate, but he also needs to rule his kingdom and to try and keep peace with the other kingdoms, especially after he destroyed the Fauna king... This brings us to the second half of the book...
There is a kind of political gathering/week of festivities where the rulers from every court meet to talk about politics and whatever else they need to talk about regarding the upcoming year. This is where it got harder for me to really enjoy this book. The world-building was poor, I expected more... More details, more about each court's history, and more profound characters. I was getting a little tired of Temper being rude and swearing at every two words, of Malaki being kind of mysterious, but not that much, of Callie running around in circles, trying to figure out what's happening while doubting herself...
There is also the fact that everyone is keeping secrets. I do like a good intrigue, but between Callie and Desmond..? What is happening? They keep so many secrets, Desmond does not tell her anything and he tries to act casual and be sarcastic when being accused of doing horrible things... I just don't get it. It's not like he has anyone to impress here, just be honest with each other and try to work together!
Anyways, it is not bad, it is just not what I was expecting after reading the first book.
1. Rhapsodic ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
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✅ Plot
✅🆗 Intrigue / Politics
✅🆗 Romance
🆗 World-building
3.5 stars
The first one was better...
The first part of the book is interesting. Callie is getting more comfortable with her new body, she is trying to build back her confidence while navigating the politics of ruling a kingdom and the responsibilities coming along with being mated to a king.
Desmond is under a lot of pressure. He wants to protect his mate, but he also needs to rule his kingdom and to try and keep peace with the other kingdoms, especially after he destroyed the Fauna king... This brings us to the second half of the book...
There is a kind of political gathering/week of festivities where the rulers from every court meet to talk about politics and whatever else they need to talk about regarding the upcoming year. This is where it got harder for me to really enjoy this book. The world-building was poor, I expected more... More details, more about each court's history, and more profound characters. I was getting a little tired of Temper being rude and swearing at every two words, of Malaki being kind of mysterious, but not that much, of Callie running around in circles, trying to figure out what's happening while doubting herself...
There is also the fact that everyone is keeping secrets. I do like a good intrigue, but between Callie and Desmond..? What is happening? They keep so many secrets, Desmond does not tell her anything and he tries to act casual and be sarcastic when being accused of doing horrible things... I just don't get it. It's not like he has anyone to impress here, just be honest with each other and try to work together!
“It feels like I’ve just conceded a little bit of my soul. But Des has been collecting pieces of my soul since the night I took my father’s life. As far as I’m concerned, he can have it; I know he’ll take good care of it. Des’s”
Anyways, it is not bad, it is just not what I was expecting after reading the first book.
1. Rhapsodic ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
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April 22, 2019We are all like the bright moon, we still have our darker side.” —Kahlil Gibran
What a fabulously awesome tale!!!! This is book two from The Barnginer series. Des has come to save callie from the mad king and the price of kidnapping his mate is death. But before his death he breathed into callie his magic and now she has wings and scales! As callie tries to adjust to her new apperance her bond with des continues to grow and she's learning theirs more to learn about her mate. But with the death of karnon the mad king the disappearance 's haven't stopped more warriors are going missing,so he couldn't be the thief of souls. As des shows callie his world and she meets those close to him,their are enemies hiding in the shadows plotting not only his death,but his mates as well ! So many fabulous characters!!! From des right hand Malaki Lord of dreams to Janus king of day. And the bad guys are interesting too,like the green man king and mate to mara queen of fauna. But one of my fave characters is callie's bestie temprance( temper )she's one bad ass bitch!! And her one liners and humor is friggin hilarious!!! She's a very powerful sorcerous who doesn't take shit!!! When she comes looking for callie she blows a hole thur the night kingdom and takes a fairy hostage and all hell breaks lose!! If she isn't threatening to gut or mame someone she's f##king! Love her!!! Awesome twists and turns and it isn't over yet, it's only begun as one by one A crack forms along one of the glass coffins, spider-webbing across the transparent surface. Wood splinters down the center of an oak. A devilish child smiles. And then, as one, a thousand upon a thousand eyes snap open. The time has come.
Next and final book in this series Dark Harmony!💋💖
What a fabulously awesome tale!!!! This is book two from The Barnginer series. Des has come to save callie from the mad king and the price of kidnapping his mate is death. But before his death he breathed into callie his magic and now she has wings and scales! As callie tries to adjust to her new apperance her bond with des continues to grow and she's learning theirs more to learn about her mate. But with the death of karnon the mad king the disappearance 's haven't stopped more warriors are going missing,so he couldn't be the thief of souls. As des shows callie his world and she meets those close to him,their are enemies hiding in the shadows plotting not only his death,but his mates as well ! So many fabulous characters!!! From des right hand Malaki Lord of dreams to Janus king of day. And the bad guys are interesting too,like the green man king and mate to mara queen of fauna. But one of my fave characters is callie's bestie temprance( temper )she's one bad ass bitch!! And her one liners and humor is friggin hilarious!!! She's a very powerful sorcerous who doesn't take shit!!! When she comes looking for callie she blows a hole thur the night kingdom and takes a fairy hostage and all hell breaks lose!! If she isn't threatening to gut or mame someone she's f##king! Love her!!! Awesome twists and turns and it isn't over yet, it's only begun as one by one A crack forms along one of the glass coffins, spider-webbing across the transparent surface. Wood splinters down the center of an oak. A devilish child smiles. And then, as one, a thousand upon a thousand eyes snap open. The time has come.
Next and final book in this series Dark Harmony!💋💖
May 26, 2018
I want my own Bargainer...
I couldn't stay away from The Bargainer series. Of course, once I started I couldn't stop and I finished this audio way too fast. I had to come back and see how things were going and whether or not Callie and Des could beat the baddies. Saying that, we get to know Des a little better and find out he's quite the baddie himself...is it bad that I find him even more intriguing because of it?
I loved getting to see their bond grow stronger and for Des to share all of his feelings that he had to keep hidden for so long. I think these two together is why I love reading romance so much. It's knowing that the past battles faced were worth it when there are love and support waiting for you at the end. Being able to experience their exhilaration as they touch and connect in a way that shows their love and friendship. Talking about their feelings openly without shame or nervousness. It just makes me sigh...in an "ain't love grand" kind of way.
The narration was fantastic again, but at times I had to replay a few scenes where Des is "talking" because it was just a little too low/deep. You're going to laugh, but I've been trying out my Siren voice. Seriously, I want to be a Siren when I grow up. ;-)
Loved it, can't wait for more. This series is becoming a favourite and I love that I'm desperate for the next adventure Callie and Des will face.
I couldn't stay away from The Bargainer series. Of course, once I started I couldn't stop and I finished this audio way too fast. I had to come back and see how things were going and whether or not Callie and Des could beat the baddies. Saying that, we get to know Des a little better and find out he's quite the baddie himself...is it bad that I find him even more intriguing because of it?
I loved getting to see their bond grow stronger and for Des to share all of his feelings that he had to keep hidden for so long. I think these two together is why I love reading romance so much. It's knowing that the past battles faced were worth it when there are love and support waiting for you at the end. Being able to experience their exhilaration as they touch and connect in a way that shows their love and friendship. Talking about their feelings openly without shame or nervousness. It just makes me sigh...in an "ain't love grand" kind of way.
The narration was fantastic again, but at times I had to replay a few scenes where Des is "talking" because it was just a little too low/deep. You're going to laugh, but I've been trying out my Siren voice. Seriously, I want to be a Siren when I grow up. ;-)
Loved it, can't wait for more. This series is becoming a favourite and I love that I'm desperate for the next adventure Callie and Des will face.
June 19, 2023
Never has darkness been so appealing. 🌌✨
I have no words, and yet I want to say everything.
“Till darkness die, love”.
This book was deliciously powerful and incredible stunning.
Callie is in Fairy. In Desmond’s kingdom. Training, and learning to accept her new self.
As the Night Kings mate she is required to attend the Solstice.
An event that gathers all the Fairy kingdoms, and let’s just say for an event that’s supposed to be free of danger, this is so NOT. #shithappens
The sizzling chemistry between Des & Callie was on fire. Their pain, hopes and love was phenomenal.
Their story heartbroken and yet uplifting.
Their love just RIGHT.
I was not bored for a second. I was sitting in my seat craving the next mystery.
Honestly I CRAVED it.
Needed it.
🖤 I WANT MORE! 🖤
Read: 16/06/2019
1st rating: 5 “Till darkness die”- stars
Genre/sub-genres: Dark Fantasy/Fey/Siren/romance
Cover: 5 stars- it’s so simple, and yet so stunning. Plus the paperback feels amazing #yesIjustsaidthat
POV: 1st person - Single (Callie- however 1 chapter with Des)!
Will I recommend: For all the black beads in the world, YES! I just read my two favorite book from 2019 after each other and I am SO HIGH on this book.
I have no words, and yet I want to say everything.
“Till darkness die, love”.
This book was deliciously powerful and incredible stunning.
Callie is in Fairy. In Desmond’s kingdom. Training, and learning to accept her new self.
As the Night Kings mate she is required to attend the Solstice.
An event that gathers all the Fairy kingdoms, and let’s just say for an event that’s supposed to be free of danger, this is so NOT. #shithappens
The sizzling chemistry between Des & Callie was on fire. Their pain, hopes and love was phenomenal.
Their story heartbroken and yet uplifting.
Their love just RIGHT.
I was not bored for a second. I was sitting in my seat craving the next mystery.
Honestly I CRAVED it.
Needed it.
🖤 I WANT MORE! 🖤
Read: 16/06/2019
1st rating: 5 “Till darkness die”- stars
Genre/sub-genres: Dark Fantasy/Fey/Siren/romance
Cover: 5 stars- it’s so simple, and yet so stunning. Plus the paperback feels amazing #yesIjustsaidthat
POV: 1st person - Single (Callie- however 1 chapter with Des)!
Will I recommend: For all the black beads in the world, YES! I just read my two favorite book from 2019 after each other and I am SO HIGH on this book.
February 14, 2019
Buddy Read with my sis Irina!
November 9, 2020
Woohoo, another re-read knocked down!
So, for some reasons I never actually finished this series and I'm hoping to redeem myself in 2020. Mostly because the only good news I've gotten this year is finishing series I've started years ago. Oh, and working from home.
While enjoying A Strange Hymn, I started to notice how dumb these characters can be at times. I also noticed how much tension and jealousy was flying between them as well. Back to being dumb though, not sure what was going on in Callie's head throughout this book but when you realize that someone is basically hunting you like prey - YOU DON'T SUGGEST YOU GO BACK HOME. ALONE. EVER.
That being said, these two were a headache at some points in this book. Eventually they redeemed themselves.. because how could they not? I still somehow love Callie and Des and I'm freaking out about the next book. Mostly because of how this one ended. Ahhhh I hope it's amazing!
______________________________
Callie and Des are my life goals right now. I have so many feelings and emotions.
A Strange Hymn WAS AMAZING GUYS! I didn't think this book would be better than the first one.. but I need to eat my words now. It was so freaking good! I'm amazed, in awe, and I'm shook to the core.
Especially after the cliffhanger kind of ending I got in the first book, I've been dying to get my hands on this one! I don't know why it took me so long to do it.. but I'm going to fully blame work. So diving into the second book of this series, we know that Callie grew her wings (FIIINALLLYY!) and she has now figured out that Des is her mate. Now we also know that Des really cares for her as well.
I still am dying to know why all these women mysteriously disappeared in the first book and how they haven't even woken up yet. I need to know who is doing this to these poor woman.. so I can kill them. Or plot their death. OKAY, I mean wish for someone to plot their death.
Other stuff happens in this book, like Des and Callie travelling to a different kingdom. A lot of shit goes down in the Fauna Kingdom. I was so happy when Des stood up for Callie.. but I wanted more from them. Maybe I'm being weird. Maybe I'm exhausted. WHO KNOWS?!
Overall, I need the next book. Like, right now. Not this summer. Not in a couple of months. It's April people.. can we put the book out now?!?! PLEASE?!?!
I have so many questions that I need answers to! I also need more Des and Callie STAT!
So, for some reasons I never actually finished this series and I'm hoping to redeem myself in 2020. Mostly because the only good news I've gotten this year is finishing series I've started years ago. Oh, and working from home.
While enjoying A Strange Hymn, I started to notice how dumb these characters can be at times. I also noticed how much tension and jealousy was flying between them as well. Back to being dumb though, not sure what was going on in Callie's head throughout this book but when you realize that someone is basically hunting you like prey - YOU DON'T SUGGEST YOU GO BACK HOME. ALONE. EVER.
That being said, these two were a headache at some points in this book. Eventually they redeemed themselves.. because how could they not? I still somehow love Callie and Des and I'm freaking out about the next book. Mostly because of how this one ended. Ahhhh I hope it's amazing!
______________________________
Callie and Des are my life goals right now. I have so many feelings and emotions.
A Strange Hymn WAS AMAZING GUYS! I didn't think this book would be better than the first one.. but I need to eat my words now. It was so freaking good! I'm amazed, in awe, and I'm shook to the core.
Especially after the cliffhanger kind of ending I got in the first book, I've been dying to get my hands on this one! I don't know why it took me so long to do it.. but I'm going to fully blame work. So diving into the second book of this series, we know that Callie grew her wings (FIIINALLLYY!) and she has now figured out that Des is her mate. Now we also know that Des really cares for her as well.
I still am dying to know why all these women mysteriously disappeared in the first book and how they haven't even woken up yet. I need to know who is doing this to these poor woman.. so I can kill them. Or plot their death. OKAY, I mean wish for someone to plot their death.
Other stuff happens in this book, like Des and Callie travelling to a different kingdom. A lot of shit goes down in the Fauna Kingdom. I was so happy when Des stood up for Callie.. but I wanted more from them. Maybe I'm being weird. Maybe I'm exhausted. WHO KNOWS?!
Overall, I need the next book. Like, right now. Not this summer. Not in a couple of months. It's April people.. can we put the book out now?!?! PLEASE?!?!
I have so many questions that I need answers to! I also need more Des and Callie STAT!
March 23, 2020
UPDATE MARCH 23
The Bargainer series Back to regular price but still free for the Kindle Unlimited Elite.
BTW My post appeared in the review page a day after I complained GR was hiding it, but it should be higher in the review page. My advice remains, if you need to see censored reviews all you have to do is use the filter "text only".
UPDATE MARCH 20 2020
STILL FREE GUYS!!! AND AUDIOBOOK LOVERS, I JUST DOWNLOADED RHAPSODIC AUDIOBOOK FOR FREE!!! The narrator is great!! I wish there was a male actor for Des but other than AUDIOBOOK IS really good.
https://www.amazon.com/Rhapsodic-The-...
give it a chance
side note: GOODREADS staff as per usual took an issue with my fangirling over an author outside of their pre-approved list of fantasy writers. Yep they have their favorites who, by the way, never write original stuff. Never! Not the way Laura Thalassa, Annette Marie and Amy Harmon do. The pre-aproved list of Goodreads staff favorites are the ones who forced me to search for cooler more affordable alternatives in the Kindle Unlimited elite of authors. So many cool authors are part of the KU elite.
I'm telling you weird things had happened before. My review of Dark Harmony was merged for no reason and that deprived it of its votes. So rude. And what happened now? They're hiding my review.
If you look at the review page my review should be higher cuz it has more votes, but here's a tip: USE THE FILTERS TO FIND CENSORED REVIEWS. You use the filter that says text-only and the censored reviews will magically reappear.
ORIGINAL POST MARCH 17 2020
OMG!!! The entire Bargainer series has been free for 2 days!!! Hurry up you might still catch this AWESOMETACULAR FREEBIE PROMOTION!!!
RHAPSODY
STRANGE HYMN
DARK HARMONY
Dowload ASAP!! Guys this is a must read!!!
The Bargainer series Back to regular price but still free for the Kindle Unlimited Elite.
BTW My post appeared in the review page a day after I complained GR was hiding it, but it should be higher in the review page. My advice remains, if you need to see censored reviews all you have to do is use the filter "text only".
UPDATE MARCH 20 2020
STILL FREE GUYS!!! AND AUDIOBOOK LOVERS, I JUST DOWNLOADED RHAPSODIC AUDIOBOOK FOR FREE!!! The narrator is great!! I wish there was a male actor for Des but other than AUDIOBOOK IS really good.
https://www.amazon.com/Rhapsodic-The-...
give it a chance
side note: GOODREADS staff as per usual took an issue with my fangirling over an author outside of their pre-approved list of fantasy writers. Yep they have their favorites who, by the way, never write original stuff. Never! Not the way Laura Thalassa, Annette Marie and Amy Harmon do. The pre-aproved list of Goodreads staff favorites are the ones who forced me to search for cooler more affordable alternatives in the Kindle Unlimited elite of authors. So many cool authors are part of the KU elite.
I'm telling you weird things had happened before. My review of Dark Harmony was merged for no reason and that deprived it of its votes. So rude. And what happened now? They're hiding my review.
If you look at the review page my review should be higher cuz it has more votes, but here's a tip: USE THE FILTERS TO FIND CENSORED REVIEWS. You use the filter that says text-only and the censored reviews will magically reappear.
ORIGINAL POST MARCH 17 2020
OMG!!! The entire Bargainer series has been free for 2 days!!! Hurry up you might still catch this AWESOMETACULAR FREEBIE PROMOTION!!!
RHAPSODY
STRANGE HYMN
DARK HARMONY
Dowload ASAP!! Guys this is a must read!!!
June 5, 2019
i swear, this series is destroying my sleep cycle. but here we are. another late night/early morning reading, another 5 star. i regret nothing.
this book has a different feel than ‘rhapsodic,’ but not in a bad way. this is very much focused on exploring the world-building aspect of the story. considering it wasnt present in the first book, i dont mind, even though the pacing is a bit slow. i mean, the actual plot doesnt continue until the second half of the book. but again, i dont mind because im just really enjoying this story as a whole! cant wait to start the next book!
↠ 4.5 stars
this book has a different feel than ‘rhapsodic,’ but not in a bad way. this is very much focused on exploring the world-building aspect of the story. considering it wasnt present in the first book, i dont mind, even though the pacing is a bit slow. i mean, the actual plot doesnt continue until the second half of the book. but again, i dont mind because im just really enjoying this story as a whole! cant wait to start the next book!
↠ 4.5 stars
March 24, 2021
Still find Callie meh. Still love Des, though I do think he's a lot of talk for not that much show. Everyone goes on about how he rules the dark but dude is like just cutting it for morally gray. His personality is a lot of fun and he's still swoony af so if they didn't constantly hype him up as 'wicked' I would just love him and not say anything about it but let's not oversell okay 🤷🏽♀️ The plot needed to come harder and the parties/political intrigue weren't doing it for me but I still rly like the Thief of Souls mystery and will read on to get to the bottom of his character.
September 10, 2017
4.5 Stars. Loved it! Mystical, intriguing and totally riveting.
After reading the first book Rhapsodic last month, I couldn’t wait to dive into A Strange Hymn. Des takes Callie to the Otherworld and Callie learns about Des’s past and his life as King of Night, as well as the Fae world.
Callie is finally learning Des’s secrets – some good and other not so good. Their relationship is going strong, but how well does she really know him? Is he the same man that she came to know and love? The romance was smoking hot and yet so sweet, and they make a great couple.
This was very different to the first book, which was more about Callie & Des’s friendship developing, whereas this is more about the Fae world and Des’s other life as King of Night. I thoroughly enjoyed both books and both kept me engrossed throughout. But it was the characters and the Fae world that really gripped my interest in this book. I was fascinated by the different kingdoms and their customs, and found Des to be mysterious & intriguing. Malakai and Temper are fascinating characters and I hope that we will see more of them in the next book.
And what an ending! I did not see that coming! I can’t wait for the next instalment.
After reading the first book Rhapsodic last month, I couldn’t wait to dive into A Strange Hymn. Des takes Callie to the Otherworld and Callie learns about Des’s past and his life as King of Night, as well as the Fae world.
Callie is finally learning Des’s secrets – some good and other not so good. Their relationship is going strong, but how well does she really know him? Is he the same man that she came to know and love? The romance was smoking hot and yet so sweet, and they make a great couple.
This was very different to the first book, which was more about Callie & Des’s friendship developing, whereas this is more about the Fae world and Des’s other life as King of Night. I thoroughly enjoyed both books and both kept me engrossed throughout. But it was the characters and the Fae world that really gripped my interest in this book. I was fascinated by the different kingdoms and their customs, and found Des to be mysterious & intriguing. Malakai and Temper are fascinating characters and I hope that we will see more of them in the next book.
And what an ending! I did not see that coming! I can’t wait for the next instalment.
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