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The Zheninghai Chronicles #4
Captive of Twilight and Treachery
An enslaved princess. A desperate warrior. And the traitor hungry for revenge.
Imprisoned in an enemy fortress, Meiling finds herself at the mercy of a ruthless captor. Having spent the last decade preparing his forces, Fang Zedong is determined to make Meiling use her magic to betray her empire.
And he will use whatever means necessary to make her bend to his will.
Alone without aid except for the quirky healer Li Feiyan, Meiling must figure out Fang’s plans and escape if she wants any hope of survival. But how can she escape a heavily armed fortress with no training in magic and no experience in combat?
She cannot help the quiet question that plagues her. Will Shang come for her?
Or is he already dead?
Imprisoned in an enemy fortress, Meiling finds herself at the mercy of a ruthless captor. Having spent the last decade preparing his forces, Fang Zedong is determined to make Meiling use her magic to betray her empire.
And he will use whatever means necessary to make her bend to his will.
Alone without aid except for the quirky healer Li Feiyan, Meiling must figure out Fang’s plans and escape if she wants any hope of survival. But how can she escape a heavily armed fortress with no training in magic and no experience in combat?
She cannot help the quiet question that plagues her. Will Shang come for her?
Or is he already dead?
416 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 13, 2023
30 people are currently reading
333 people want to read
About the author
Anastasis Blythe
15 books533 followersAnastasis Blythe makes her home in central Texas with her husband. When she’s not writing, she gardens, accompanies local bands and choirs on piano, rescues feral cats, and tries to keep up with the laundry. She loves exploring the world through reading, walks in nature, and thoughtful conversations. You can find her on Instagram at @anastasisblythe and on her website at AnastasisBlythe.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
June 16, 2023
I LOVED this book. The mutual pining between Shang and Meiling, her journey to discover her place in the world, the side characters, the swoony kisses...did I mention the swoony kissing??? I wish there were more books about wallflowers: Meiling is one of my favorite heroines. Can't wait for the next book.
July 2, 2025
1.5 stars.
Plot- Oof. The plot was not gripping at all. She was imprisoned the entire time, so we were in her head a lot. That entailed lots of feeling pathetic and lots of worrying. And a whole boatload of her navigating other peoples’ minds. And that aspect of the novel was super weird and abstract. Did not enjoy.
However, I plan to listen to the next one because I am still interested in how the romance will finally come together.
Writing - I usually enjoy this author’s writing, but this is not her best work.
I felt like the plot, pacing, and characterization were all below her abilities. Sometimes the sequence of events or the way certain scenes played out didn’t even make sense.
Characters- The FMC went full-blown damsel in distress. I actually don’t mind a bit of that in a romance, but this was next level, and it disappointed me. Sometimes she was so clueless and helpless. She couldn’t even use common sense. (Just one example: she didn’t even attempt to mask her feelings for the love interest when he was brought into the interrogation room.)
The FMC was overly concerned with whether the love interest liked her or not during tense scenes when they are being interrogated or in the middle of an escape. The book was silly like that.
The FMC’s female best friend, who is healer, was super annoying. She was being irritating on purpose in the middle of their escape (she was trying to get a rise out of the MMC) and it was just ridiculous and misplaced.
Romance- The FMC is totally smitten by this guy but he has given her little to no indication that he even likes her. Apparently he does, tho, because she read his mind. But I don’t feel much chemistry between them. She is the only pursuer of the relationship.
Content-
Language- no swearing.
Spice- clean; no sex or talk of sex. This includes a scene where she reads his mind that he has imagined giving her a kiss, but it doesn’t actually happen. .
Substance abuse- None.
Violence- men punch female prisoners. There is some fighting and stabbing and blood during battle and escape attempts.
Cover- i like it!
POV- dual POV, third person I think?
Cliffhanger- yes
Format- audiobook via author’s free YouTube channel
Narration- good audio performance!
How I rated the series-
#1) Guardian of Talons and Snares - 4 stars
#2) Warrior of Blade and Dusk - 4 stars
*end of duology, beginning of trilogy*
#3) Princess of Shadows and Starlight - 3 stars
#4) Captive of Twilight and Treachery - 1.5 stars
#5) Daughter of Darkness and Dreams - 1.5 stars
Plot- Oof. The plot was not gripping at all. She was imprisoned the entire time, so we were in her head a lot. That entailed lots of feeling pathetic and lots of worrying. And a whole boatload of her navigating other peoples’ minds. And that aspect of the novel was super weird and abstract. Did not enjoy.
However, I plan to listen to the next one because I am still interested in how the romance will finally come together.
Writing - I usually enjoy this author’s writing, but this is not her best work.
I felt like the plot, pacing, and characterization were all below her abilities. Sometimes the sequence of events or the way certain scenes played out didn’t even make sense.
Characters- The FMC went full-blown damsel in distress. I actually don’t mind a bit of that in a romance, but this was next level, and it disappointed me. Sometimes she was so clueless and helpless. She couldn’t even use common sense. (Just one example: she didn’t even attempt to mask her feelings for the love interest when he was brought into the interrogation room.)
The FMC was overly concerned with whether the love interest liked her or not during tense scenes when they are being interrogated or in the middle of an escape. The book was silly like that.
The FMC’s female best friend, who is healer, was super annoying. She was being irritating on purpose in the middle of their escape (she was trying to get a rise out of the MMC) and it was just ridiculous and misplaced.
Romance- The FMC is totally smitten by this guy but he has given her little to no indication that he even likes her. Apparently he does, tho, because she read his mind. But I don’t feel much chemistry between them. She is the only pursuer of the relationship.
Content-
Language- no swearing.
Spice- clean; no sex or talk of sex. This includes a scene where she reads his mind that he has imagined giving her a kiss, but it doesn’t actually happen. .
Substance abuse- None.
Violence- men punch female prisoners. There is some fighting and stabbing and blood during battle and escape attempts.
Cover- i like it!
POV- dual POV, third person I think?
Cliffhanger- yes
Format- audiobook via author’s free YouTube channel
Narration- good audio performance!
How I rated the series-
#1) Guardian of Talons and Snares - 4 stars
#2) Warrior of Blade and Dusk - 4 stars
*end of duology, beginning of trilogy*
#3) Princess of Shadows and Starlight - 3 stars
#4) Captive of Twilight and Treachery - 1.5 stars
#5) Daughter of Darkness and Dreams - 1.5 stars
October 13, 2023
I adored this one!
FRTC
FRTC
May 19, 2025
I don’t know how Blythe keeps doing this, but each new Zheninghai book becomes my favourite as soon as I read it.
This was magnificent! I feel like I barely breathed as I read! I was on the edge of my seat! My anxiety after the ending of Princess of Shadows and Starlight has been eased, but now I have a whole new level of anxiety for these precious characters. So much is happening and so much is yet to happen. Yet again and I cannot wait for the rest of the books!
I love this series and the characters. I love watching the larger story unfold while following along with the smaller stories - Nianzu/Liena, Kai/Aranya, Shang/Meiling.
(I received a free eARC in exchange for my honest review - all opinions are my own :) )
This was magnificent! I feel like I barely breathed as I read! I was on the edge of my seat! My anxiety after the ending of Princess of Shadows and Starlight has been eased, but now I have a whole new level of anxiety for these precious characters. So much is happening and so much is yet to happen. Yet again and I cannot wait for the rest of the books!
I love this series and the characters. I love watching the larger story unfold while following along with the smaller stories - Nianzu/Liena, Kai/Aranya, Shang/Meiling.
(I received a free eARC in exchange for my honest review - all opinions are my own :) )
March 7, 2023
Every book gets better. Every couple is amazing, I LOVE anastasis’ work. If you like Elise Kova and Robin D Mahle and Elle Madison you’ll love these ones!
This book was excellently written and I was hooked the whole time. My slow burn loving soul ATE THIS UP. I am now pining for the next one and I went back to reread Princess of of Shadows and Starlight afterwards
This book was excellently written and I was hooked the whole time. My slow burn loving soul ATE THIS UP. I am now pining for the next one and I went back to reread Princess of of Shadows and Starlight afterwards
January 1, 2026
The way that trauma is handled and executed in this book is breathtaking (I'm taking notes at this point). Meling is becoming so much stronger, I can't wait to see what the final instalment has in store. Also, I love Feiyan so much <3 She's hilarious.
March 7, 2023
Note: I received this book early in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed below are truthful and entirely my own.
Warning, have a box of tissues on hand: this book will tug at your heartstrings and make you cry. We could sort of tell where this series was going since Meiling got captured at the end of the last book, but you still need to know that this installment is dark and depressing. Meiling is in prison for most of this book, and while a lot goes down while she's there, it's still...you know...prison. Cue damp walls, squishy floors, and a lot of going hungry. Poor Meiling is an absolute trooper in this book as she faces threats, physical ailments, stress, and fear on top of trying to figure out how to fight back. There's a whole lot of planning this installment.
Although the plot definitely doesn't stop while she's locked up, there's a lot of amazing character development here. Meiling has to face her fears, acknowledge some hard truths, and realize that she might have to be her own savior. My heart breaks every time I read about her clinging to hope that some day she'd be free again. Meiling is way stronger than most give her credit for, and she might be my favorite Zheninghai heroine yet. (Sorry, Liena and Aranya.)
And of course, I couldn't forget Shang! He goes through growth too, although not nearly as much as Meiling, and bonus: we get some chapters from his POV! Also, the swoony moments here are so utterly perfect, I couldn't stop smiling (don't worry, everything's clean). These two are simultaneously frustrating and so cute.
Also, Feiyan is a treasure. An absolute treasure. How Shang can dislike her so much is beyond me, because she's practically what I want to be when I grow up. She and Meiling are an unstoppable (if a bit silly) duo, and I love how they gather strength from each other. Besties for the win!
As you can probably tell, this book is pretty depressing because of the plot development, character struggles, and overall surroundings, but as you can hopefully discern from my review, there's still hope and lightness here. Yes, it's much darker than the other Zheninghai books, but it needed to get worse before it got better. Here's hoping the next one is more hopeful because I'm still recovering from this one.
Overall, despite the horrid circumstances Meiling goes through, I adored this book. Meiling's strength and resolve is matched only by her kindness and determination, and Shang's softening towards her is heart-melting to watch. If you're anything like me, you will smile, you will cry, you will cheer, and you'll be dying for the next book after you've read this one. 10/10 would recommend!
Warning, have a box of tissues on hand: this book will tug at your heartstrings and make you cry. We could sort of tell where this series was going since Meiling got captured at the end of the last book, but you still need to know that this installment is dark and depressing. Meiling is in prison for most of this book, and while a lot goes down while she's there, it's still...you know...prison. Cue damp walls, squishy floors, and a lot of going hungry. Poor Meiling is an absolute trooper in this book as she faces threats, physical ailments, stress, and fear on top of trying to figure out how to fight back. There's a whole lot of planning this installment.
Although the plot definitely doesn't stop while she's locked up, there's a lot of amazing character development here. Meiling has to face her fears, acknowledge some hard truths, and realize that she might have to be her own savior. My heart breaks every time I read about her clinging to hope that some day she'd be free again. Meiling is way stronger than most give her credit for, and she might be my favorite Zheninghai heroine yet. (Sorry, Liena and Aranya.)
And of course, I couldn't forget Shang! He goes through growth too, although not nearly as much as Meiling, and bonus: we get some chapters from his POV! Also, the swoony moments here are so utterly perfect, I couldn't stop smiling (don't worry, everything's clean). These two are simultaneously frustrating and so cute.
Also, Feiyan is a treasure. An absolute treasure. How Shang can dislike her so much is beyond me, because she's practically what I want to be when I grow up. She and Meiling are an unstoppable (if a bit silly) duo, and I love how they gather strength from each other. Besties for the win!
As you can probably tell, this book is pretty depressing because of the plot development, character struggles, and overall surroundings, but as you can hopefully discern from my review, there's still hope and lightness here. Yes, it's much darker than the other Zheninghai books, but it needed to get worse before it got better. Here's hoping the next one is more hopeful because I'm still recovering from this one.
Overall, despite the horrid circumstances Meiling goes through, I adored this book. Meiling's strength and resolve is matched only by her kindness and determination, and Shang's softening towards her is heart-melting to watch. If you're anything like me, you will smile, you will cry, you will cheer, and you'll be dying for the next book after you've read this one. 10/10 would recommend!
November 11, 2023
Ugh this book…it was so hard to read, yet so beautiful. 😭 For the majority of the book Meiling was captive and separated from Shang, yet there was never a dull moment. I LOVED seeing her explore her magic more and seeing what all she could do, even if the circumstances weren’t that great 😳😆. Captive of Treachery and Twilight was truly amazing and made my heart break more than once, but also made me laugh or swoon at different parts too. I can’t get enough of this series or author!! 🤩
My one and only complaint is that I heard we’d be getting Shang’s POV in this book, but he only got 2 chapters. I’d thought his POV would be more prominent, so I was disappointed in that, but maybe we’ll get more in the next book!
Anyways, if you haven’t read this series yet, PLEASE DO!!!!
My one and only complaint is that I heard we’d be getting Shang’s POV in this book, but he only got 2 chapters. I’d thought his POV would be more prominent, so I was disappointed in that, but maybe we’ll get more in the next book!
Anyways, if you haven’t read this series yet, PLEASE DO!!!!
October 15, 2023
Much better than book 3! Still follows the storyline from books 1-2 and ends at the same point as book 2, so i was right in my timeline guess, so I’m excited for book 5 to continue the plot!!!! Also I love Feiyan so much, best character i think. <3
April 13, 2023
Meiling’s journey continues her harrowing tale in the clutches of Zedong’s fortress. We follow her journey and fight for freedom is this epic novel. Anastasis paints a beautiful picture with her writing and at time we feel the pain and troubles of the characters. I can’t wait to see what the future has in store for our princess and the empire.
April 7, 2024
Maybe I'm used to stronger heroines but this one just kept getting dumber.
Let me give an example :
'She flung her arms around his neck, despite how he jerked back, startled. And then she pressed her face into his neck, trembling like a leaf swept up in an autumn gale. “Shang, Shang, oh Shang you’re alive,” she gasped, tears streaming down her cheeks as she pressed against him. “I thought you were dead!”“You’re giving him leverage,” he hissed into her ear, deep and dark. “Stop clinging to me.” Meiling froze, the tiniest of gasps escaping her mouth. Oh, what a fool she was! When would she stop revealing her weaknesses to Zedong? When would she stop making herself an idiot in front of Shang?'
-----------------------------------------------------
Girl, the villain is right next to you and you both have been captured! Why would you show all your cards like this 😒 😐
She did get stronger but mostly just wanted for her knights to save her. Be it Shang or Feiyan. Now the latter 2 were amazing!! Feiyan is a gem and I wish we had a book on her 🔥
Not sure if I'll keep reading but disappointed how the FMC turned out 🥲 The story was great though! There was so much happening despite it being a middle book! 🤯
3.5 stars 💕
Let me give an example :
'She flung her arms around his neck, despite how he jerked back, startled. And then she pressed her face into his neck, trembling like a leaf swept up in an autumn gale. “Shang, Shang, oh Shang you’re alive,” she gasped, tears streaming down her cheeks as she pressed against him. “I thought you were dead!”“You’re giving him leverage,” he hissed into her ear, deep and dark. “Stop clinging to me.” Meiling froze, the tiniest of gasps escaping her mouth. Oh, what a fool she was! When would she stop revealing her weaknesses to Zedong? When would she stop making herself an idiot in front of Shang?'
-----------------------------------------------------
Girl, the villain is right next to you and you both have been captured! Why would you show all your cards like this 😒 😐
She did get stronger but mostly just wanted for her knights to save her. Be it Shang or Feiyan. Now the latter 2 were amazing!! Feiyan is a gem and I wish we had a book on her 🔥
Not sure if I'll keep reading but disappointed how the FMC turned out 🥲 The story was great though! There was so much happening despite it being a middle book! 🤯
3.5 stars 💕
March 8, 2023
Okay so wow…that was so good—emotionally and everything else.
So it starts with Shang making good on his feelings and vowing to save Meiling no matter what after her capture or surrender to save him in the last book.
Meiling is now in the hands of Zedong Fang and gosh I loved her growth. Yes, her growth in the first book was good but in this—she was still very naive and in denial but as this book went forward, so did she. She came to some harsh but true realisations about her empire, her family, her friends and relationships and even her enemies. But the most harsh ones were about herself. We see her start to come out of her safety bubble or this illusion she had about her self to be in denial and she then starts to see more about herself, how she starts to see her flaws and how she now takes accountability and how her love and compassion doesn’t go away simply because of her own self discovery. I loved that💕💕.
Moreover, she is so strong— Princess Meiling, having to believe all her life to be weak simply because she thought having magic defined that—and in this book learning and coming to discover and almost accepting that it wasn’t the case and that she was strong—it was wholesome and sweet and understanding. Understanding because when we all feel so shadowed all our life because it’s demanded even though not voiced—it’s so important to note that when the opportunity comes to discard that is very much so appealing and Anna handled that so perfectly. I’m so glad she added that to Meilings character and how she started to feel guilty but also how desperately she wanted what Zedong was manipulating her desires and presenting them. I absolutely loved that, truly💕💕🤍🤍. She grew so much in this book—but she still has a lot of growing left to do and I’m here rooting for her in the next book🤍🤍🤍❤️🩹.
Now Shang—I liked him more in this book—understandably. But I really appreciated how he didn’t immediately get irritated with Meiling easily and how he showed concern and understanding. I loved the scenes between them—much more romantic and the mind scene—gosh I adored it💕💕. I would’ve preferred if I’d been given two more chapters from his POV, but the ones didn’t disappoint.
Feiyan—I adored her💕. I loved her fierce personality and fire especially since acting stupid. Her resilience is something to learn from. Her confused and hurt feelings and her family situation—I personally understood that and all here for her and her book. Her emotions with Meiling were so endearing and so touching—she’s so good🤍. I also have a guess about her love interest.
That’s all I’m going to say. If you haven’t started this series, what’s stopping you?? Go read it now and by the time you reach here, it’ll be released already.
Love this Anastasis❤️🩹❤️🩹.
Thank you for the ARC.
So it starts with Shang making good on his feelings and vowing to save Meiling no matter what after her capture or surrender to save him in the last book.
Meiling is now in the hands of Zedong Fang and gosh I loved her growth. Yes, her growth in the first book was good but in this—she was still very naive and in denial but as this book went forward, so did she. She came to some harsh but true realisations about her empire, her family, her friends and relationships and even her enemies. But the most harsh ones were about herself. We see her start to come out of her safety bubble or this illusion she had about her self to be in denial and she then starts to see more about herself, how she starts to see her flaws and how she now takes accountability and how her love and compassion doesn’t go away simply because of her own self discovery. I loved that💕💕.
Moreover, she is so strong— Princess Meiling, having to believe all her life to be weak simply because she thought having magic defined that—and in this book learning and coming to discover and almost accepting that it wasn’t the case and that she was strong—it was wholesome and sweet and understanding. Understanding because when we all feel so shadowed all our life because it’s demanded even though not voiced—it’s so important to note that when the opportunity comes to discard that is very much so appealing and Anna handled that so perfectly. I’m so glad she added that to Meilings character and how she started to feel guilty but also how desperately she wanted what Zedong was manipulating her desires and presenting them. I absolutely loved that, truly💕💕🤍🤍. She grew so much in this book—but she still has a lot of growing left to do and I’m here rooting for her in the next book🤍🤍🤍❤️🩹.
Now Shang—I liked him more in this book—understandably. But I really appreciated how he didn’t immediately get irritated with Meiling easily and how he showed concern and understanding. I loved the scenes between them—much more romantic and the mind scene—gosh I adored it💕💕. I would’ve preferred if I’d been given two more chapters from his POV, but the ones didn’t disappoint.
Feiyan—I adored her💕. I loved her fierce personality and fire especially since acting stupid. Her resilience is something to learn from. Her confused and hurt feelings and her family situation—I personally understood that and all here for her and her book. Her emotions with Meiling were so endearing and so touching—she’s so good🤍. I also have a guess about her love interest.
That’s all I’m going to say. If you haven’t started this series, what’s stopping you?? Go read it now and by the time you reach here, it’ll be released already.
Love this Anastasis❤️🩹❤️🩹.
Thank you for the ARC.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 10, 2023
Anastasis continues to delight me with her work, as book 4 in the Zheninghai Chronicles is another exciting look into this Eastern fantasy world where romance is key to the plot. We continue to follow the progression of Princess Meiling and Shang, learning more about them and seeing how they will face the obstacles ahead of them and thwart the bad guys.
I continue to love the interactions and differences in our two main characters. Shang is calculating and efficient, Meiling is compassionate, lacking self confidence, but also full of life. Of course this means these two engage with the world in different ways, and it's enjoyable to see the story unfold.
Much of this story takes place in a dungeon, and not just the physical kind but mental as well. This is certainly a challenge to Meiling, and her issues with self-confidence are central to much of this time, giving it a bit of a darker spin compared to the previous books, more introspective and at times making it a bit challenging to read. In addition to these two main characters, we also see a lot more of Feiyan, who is a sort of comic relief in a way, a strong willed "fool" with a unique magical ability.
The unfolding plot continues to enrapture, the character development entices, and the romance is swoony and still clean. The romance is certainly my favorite part of these stories, and Anastasis does a wonderful job at immersing me and making me excited to see more. I'm absolutely looking forward to the next books in the series!
I continue to love the interactions and differences in our two main characters. Shang is calculating and efficient, Meiling is compassionate, lacking self confidence, but also full of life. Of course this means these two engage with the world in different ways, and it's enjoyable to see the story unfold.
Much of this story takes place in a dungeon, and not just the physical kind but mental as well. This is certainly a challenge to Meiling, and her issues with self-confidence are central to much of this time, giving it a bit of a darker spin compared to the previous books, more introspective and at times making it a bit challenging to read. In addition to these two main characters, we also see a lot more of Feiyan, who is a sort of comic relief in a way, a strong willed "fool" with a unique magical ability.
The unfolding plot continues to enrapture, the character development entices, and the romance is swoony and still clean. The romance is certainly my favorite part of these stories, and Anastasis does a wonderful job at immersing me and making me excited to see more. I'm absolutely looking forward to the next books in the series!
March 12, 2023
This series is just 😚🤌
This was probably my favourite so far, though Warrior of Blade and Dusk is a close second/maybe tied.
Firstly, let's take a moment to appreciate the IMAGINATION of the author to come up with some of these magical abilities and mindscapes. I absolutely loved getting to see how Meiling's abilities worked more in depth in this book, and seeing into certain minds, knowing major parts of the other characters... Being imperfect in her searching. Any human would be tempted to take a peek 👀
Feiyan! She is the friend we all need. I loved her so much, and loved that we got a chapter from her POV. I can't wait for the book that features her as the MC. She deserves her own series!
Shang! He's so cool and serious and we only get little glimpses of his gentlemanliness, because he is so focused on SURVIVAL and RESCUE. I loved the nod to Sleeping Beauty for a hot minute, and I loved that he is Meiling's calm and steady.
Zedong! I'm so glad I read Maiden of Candlelight and Lotuses. His character is so well established, but even if I hadn't read it, he is such a good villain! It's been a long while since I've read a villain so perfectly horrifying.
I could go on and on about this book/series but I'll stop here.
Thank you to the author for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
I'm really looking forward to (and also dreading coming to the end of) the final two books!
This was probably my favourite so far, though Warrior of Blade and Dusk is a close second/maybe tied.
Firstly, let's take a moment to appreciate the IMAGINATION of the author to come up with some of these magical abilities and mindscapes. I absolutely loved getting to see how Meiling's abilities worked more in depth in this book, and seeing into certain minds, knowing major parts of the other characters... Being imperfect in her searching. Any human would be tempted to take a peek 👀
Feiyan! She is the friend we all need. I loved her so much, and loved that we got a chapter from her POV. I can't wait for the book that features her as the MC. She deserves her own series!
Shang! He's so cool and serious and we only get little glimpses of his gentlemanliness, because he is so focused on SURVIVAL and RESCUE. I loved the nod to Sleeping Beauty for a hot minute, and I loved that he is Meiling's calm and steady.
Zedong! I'm so glad I read Maiden of Candlelight and Lotuses. His character is so well established, but even if I hadn't read it, he is such a good villain! It's been a long while since I've read a villain so perfectly horrifying.
I could go on and on about this book/series but I'll stop here.
Thank you to the author for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
I'm really looking forward to (and also dreading coming to the end of) the final two books!
March 20, 2023
It's really hard to put into words how much you love a book...I've never loved one so much as this series though.
I was immediately invested in this story, especially since I already knew the characters from the previous book, Princess of Shadows and Starlight. It picks up right where the last book left off.
Each book in this series leaves you wanting more and each book is better than the last.
I absolutely LOVE a good side character and Li Feiyan was the perfect sidekick! She made me laugh out loud and adds a bit of humor to this book. (She gets her own book at the end of this series.)
I am not looking forward to this epic series to come to an end but unfortunately, after the next book which finishes Shang and Meiling's story, there will be only one more book 😔💔
But I know that the author has plans for more books and let me tell you, if she writes it, I'm gonna read it!
If you haven't checked out the rest of this series, definitely do so!
I for one am already impatient to get the next copy on my hands.
If you love:
Just Kisses
Enemies to Lovers
Magic Systems
Dragons and Monsters
Hilarious Side Kicks
Wholesome Relationships
Thrilling Suspense
Soft Female Lead
Stoic but Sweet Heroes...
Then go binge this series right now! It's worth the hype.
August 1, 2024
I liked this book better than the previous one! Meiling is growing a lot here and has a very much needed epiphany about herself. When she's not with Shang, she becomes a strong(er) person in her own unique and relatable way. She's starting to grow a backbone -which I appreciate very much!- and befriends the female healer, who helped her significantly in her growth- personally and socially.
I liked Shang's POV, it was essential to understand him better. But even though I did understand him better now, I also understand why Meiling is so insecure around him. He sends mixed signals and as soon as he is around her, she's starting to get clingy and he's starting to get cold and distant again. I don't really understand, how they could fall for each other with her being so shy and needy and him being so patronising towards her... This love-development-thing is not written very well, neither in this book, nor in the previous one.
Zedong is a pretty good villain.
Shuren is intriguing.
Feiyan isn't merely a healer for the sick and wounded, but for the soul.
And even though it's not my favourite book, I couldn't quite lay it down. That's a good sign. I loved the interaction with the phoenixes and hope to see more of sth like that in the next book. 3,5 stars, rounded up.
I liked Shang's POV, it was essential to understand him better. But even though I did understand him better now, I also understand why Meiling is so insecure around him. He sends mixed signals and as soon as he is around her, she's starting to get clingy and he's starting to get cold and distant again. I don't really understand, how they could fall for each other with her being so shy and needy and him being so patronising towards her... This love-development-thing is not written very well, neither in this book, nor in the previous one.
Zedong is a pretty good villain.
Shuren is intriguing.
Feiyan isn't merely a healer for the sick and wounded, but for the soul.
And even though it's not my favourite book, I couldn't quite lay it down. That's a good sign. I loved the interaction with the phoenixes and hope to see more of sth like that in the next book. 3,5 stars, rounded up.
January 23, 2025
Rated PG-13
The only reason I rated these books PG-13 and not PG is because of the amount of violence. It isn't graphic or gory, but it is constantly through the whole book. It is war, so it's needed and not overdone, but there is mild torture and a lot of violence.
There was almost zero romance in this book, which made me sad. I was hoping that the MMC would be camped out nearby so she could "fly" to him at night, but alas, it never happened. I still loved the story and was on the edge of my seat to see what happened next.
I do love how consistent the characters are. I hate it, but I love it. The FMC is not a warrior at all, and even though you want her to throw a punch or fight or something, she never does because that is not who she is. She grew, but she grew into a stronger version of herself and not someone else. I wish the MMC would be a tad bit nicer because I'm having a hard time liking him, but the small glimpses into his mind also explain why he is that way.
*This book is rated PG-13. There is no swearing or sp9ce. There is one mild kiss. There is mild torture and a lot of mild violence.
The only reason I rated these books PG-13 and not PG is because of the amount of violence. It isn't graphic or gory, but it is constantly through the whole book. It is war, so it's needed and not overdone, but there is mild torture and a lot of violence.
There was almost zero romance in this book, which made me sad. I was hoping that the MMC would be camped out nearby so she could "fly" to him at night, but alas, it never happened. I still loved the story and was on the edge of my seat to see what happened next.
I do love how consistent the characters are. I hate it, but I love it. The FMC is not a warrior at all, and even though you want her to throw a punch or fight or something, she never does because that is not who she is. She grew, but she grew into a stronger version of herself and not someone else. I wish the MMC would be a tad bit nicer because I'm having a hard time liking him, but the small glimpses into his mind also explain why he is that way.
*This book is rated PG-13. There is no swearing or sp9ce. There is one mild kiss. There is mild torture and a lot of mild violence.
January 18, 2024
My rating: 4 stars
Wow! What a rollercoaster this one is. This stakes were so high for Meiling and the people she cares about!
I was on the edge of my seat throughout most of this book. Even though I knew we would get a happy ending, I kept wondering how we would get there.
What I ended up really enjoying about this book was seeing Meiling grow. She became more confident in her abilities, since she didn't have to hide them anymore. I also really liked that she made a friend in Feiyan (who is hilariously wonderful by the way. New favorite side character unlocked).
While I did enjoy the budding romance between Meiling and Shang in this one, I don't like how they kept fighting over misunderstandings. Their problems could have been easily resolved if they just asked each other questions and answered them honestly.
The author is definitely playing up the "will they, won't they" part of their romance.
I can't wait to read the next book and see what happens next in the Zheninghai Universe!
Wow! What a rollercoaster this one is. This stakes were so high for Meiling and the people she cares about!
I was on the edge of my seat throughout most of this book. Even though I knew we would get a happy ending, I kept wondering how we would get there.
What I ended up really enjoying about this book was seeing Meiling grow. She became more confident in her abilities, since she didn't have to hide them anymore. I also really liked that she made a friend in Feiyan (who is hilariously wonderful by the way. New favorite side character unlocked).
While I did enjoy the budding romance between Meiling and Shang in this one, I don't like how they kept fighting over misunderstandings. Their problems could have been easily resolved if they just asked each other questions and answered them honestly.
The author is definitely playing up the "will they, won't they" part of their romance.
I can't wait to read the next book and see what happens next in the Zheninghai Universe!
March 17, 2023
I will always fall in love with each of Anastasis' characters. With each book in this series, I am hooked even more.
This is the next part to Meiling and Shang's story. It starts off right where the previous book ended. We get to see a dual POV to get insight on how each of our beloved characters are fairing in the horrible situation they ended up in.
My heart hurts throughout the book, seeing each event and trial they must go through to hopefully return to each other and gain their freedom.
The scenes in this book are intense and mind blowing. This book does have some of the action like in previous books, but a lot of it is tricks and games. I was really hooked to this story once again to the depth of each character and the relationship between each. We get to see more of our villian in this chapter of the series. I can't wait to find out more. My heart hurts but is also happy after this cliffhanger. A horrible way to put that, I know. I can't wait to see the next part of their story!
This is the next part to Meiling and Shang's story. It starts off right where the previous book ended. We get to see a dual POV to get insight on how each of our beloved characters are fairing in the horrible situation they ended up in.
My heart hurts throughout the book, seeing each event and trial they must go through to hopefully return to each other and gain their freedom.
The scenes in this book are intense and mind blowing. This book does have some of the action like in previous books, but a lot of it is tricks and games. I was really hooked to this story once again to the depth of each character and the relationship between each. We get to see more of our villian in this chapter of the series. I can't wait to find out more. My heart hurts but is also happy after this cliffhanger. A horrible way to put that, I know. I can't wait to see the next part of their story!
December 17, 2024
I have officially read every book that Anastasis Blythe has published…and I am really sad about that. I love everything she has written, but ‘The Zheninghai Chronicles’ is definitely my favorite. Usually with a series there is a book that I didn’t like in it, but that is not the case with this series. All the books were fantastic, but if I had to choose my favorites, it would be ‘Maiden of Candlelight and Lotuses’ and ‘Daughter of Darkness and Dreams’.
This series is beautifully written with vivid descriptions that made it so easy to completely lose myself in this story.
The characters were well developed and I had no trouble connecting with them and rooting for them to succeed. You’ll definitely love this series if you love fantasy full of swoony romance, found family, political intrigue, magic, and non-stop adventure. Once you pick this series up, you won’t want to put it down again. I will definitely be reading ‘The Zheninghai Chronicles’ over and over!
This series is beautifully written with vivid descriptions that made it so easy to completely lose myself in this story.
The characters were well developed and I had no trouble connecting with them and rooting for them to succeed. You’ll definitely love this series if you love fantasy full of swoony romance, found family, political intrigue, magic, and non-stop adventure. Once you pick this series up, you won’t want to put it down again. I will definitely be reading ‘The Zheninghai Chronicles’ over and over!
January 5, 2025
The story begins with Meiling trapped in the fortress at the edge of the Empire, the same fortress where the other magic-wielders have been imprisoned. Shang risks everything to find his way back to her, but meanwhile, the archvillain begins to break her will so that he can use her magic as he wishes.
Most books (like Aranya’s story earlier in the series) show the heroine or hero resisting torture to stand up for what is right . . . this book is interesting in that the heroine is extremely susceptible to external pressure because of her empathy for others. It is displayed as both a weakness and a strength and adds a complexity to the story.
As the second book of the “Meiling trilogy” inside of this series, I will admit that the plot of this one dragged a little bit (torture, escape attempt, torture, escape attempt, torture . . . you get the picture), but that didn’t stop me from reading on for the grand finale in the next installment . . .
Most books (like Aranya’s story earlier in the series) show the heroine or hero resisting torture to stand up for what is right . . . this book is interesting in that the heroine is extremely susceptible to external pressure because of her empathy for others. It is displayed as both a weakness and a strength and adds a complexity to the story.
As the second book of the “Meiling trilogy” inside of this series, I will admit that the plot of this one dragged a little bit (torture, escape attempt, torture, escape attempt, torture . . . you get the picture), but that didn’t stop me from reading on for the grand finale in the next installment . . .
May 6, 2023
Even better than the last
Somehow this author has managed to write a book that takes all of the best elements of the last book- the high stakes and risks, the tensions, romance (all clean), and make it even better! The soul searching (literally) Meiling does in this installment leads to beautiful growth and development of her character. Her unexpected friendship with a fellow prisoner adds to the story in a great way too. For those who read the Vella versions, you'll be happy to find some Shang PoV which brings lovely depth to his character and makes him feel a little more real and understandable. The ending left more questions than answers and unexpected twists left me pretty shocked; yet, the ending still resolved things well enough to feel both satisfying, while making me eager for the next book. Seriously, Meiling, Shang, and friends (and some not-friends) combined with an exciting world of magic and wild beauty and beasts, made for a great story that kept me on my toes and on the edge of my seat.
Somehow this author has managed to write a book that takes all of the best elements of the last book- the high stakes and risks, the tensions, romance (all clean), and make it even better! The soul searching (literally) Meiling does in this installment leads to beautiful growth and development of her character. Her unexpected friendship with a fellow prisoner adds to the story in a great way too. For those who read the Vella versions, you'll be happy to find some Shang PoV which brings lovely depth to his character and makes him feel a little more real and understandable. The ending left more questions than answers and unexpected twists left me pretty shocked; yet, the ending still resolved things well enough to feel both satisfying, while making me eager for the next book. Seriously, Meiling, Shang, and friends (and some not-friends) combined with an exciting world of magic and wild beauty and beasts, made for a great story that kept me on my toes and on the edge of my seat.
April 14, 2023
I am obsessed with The Zheninghai Chronicles. I love the richness of the culture and the uniqueness of the magic system. Captive of Twilight and Treachery ups the ante on this already captivating series. The slow burn romance had me silently screaming in frustration at the characters that they should just kiss already!! But it's a good kind of frustration...the kind of anticipation that has one reading way too late in the night and feeding the kids chicken nuggets for dinner because anything more would take you from the book for too long. I am on pins and needles waiting for the next book in the series. I am now firmly in the Anastasis Blythe fangirl club and will be binging everything she writes.
July 8, 2023
How do these books keep getting better?!? This book was a rollercoaster of emotions. I think I even went through every emotion known to man while reading this book. Zedong made me infuriated. Meiling broke my heart. Shang made me swoon. Feiyan had me laughing and wanting to jump into this book and join the fighting. There were so many hard parts to this book, but also so many lighthearted and swoony parts as well. The way that Shang would go feral to protect Meiling is so adorable and ughhhhh why can't men be like that in real life? 😉😂
I think it is illegal to leave us all hanging on like Blythe did with this book. I just need Meiling and Shang to get together and live happily ever after and for Zedong to be gone (sorry to all of you who want him redeemed, he hurt Meiling and now Shang and I want him gone). I need book 5 NOW!
I think it is illegal to leave us all hanging on like Blythe did with this book. I just need Meiling and Shang to get together and live happily ever after and for Zedong to be gone (sorry to all of you who want him redeemed, he hurt Meiling and now Shang and I want him gone). I need book 5 NOW!
May 3, 2025
In my opinion, this series just gets better and better with each book! This is a perfect sequel to Princess of Shadows and Starlight, and I love how Meiling's character develops! I love how resilient she is and how she tries to mske the best of her circumstances. She's a perfect strong but still soft and gentle female character.
Also, there's a few chapters from Shang's POV! I was so immersed and engrossed in the story that I could hardly put it down! The pacing, the plot, the swoony kisses and slowburn romance, everything was perfect.
And what a plot twist! I never would have predicted that he would use his magic, much less like that! If you don't already absolutely loathe Fang Zedong, you will by the end! Trust me!
Also, there's a few chapters from Shang's POV! I was so immersed and engrossed in the story that I could hardly put it down! The pacing, the plot, the swoony kisses and slowburn romance, everything was perfect.
And what a plot twist! I never would have predicted that he would use his magic, much less like that! If you don't already absolutely loathe Fang Zedong, you will by the end! Trust me!
April 15, 2023
This author continues to make me feel every emotion and I love it.
I especially loved how strong and determined all the character's were, even the new side characters. The complicated relationships between all the characters also me love the story because no characters were black and white. I love seeing the two main leads and how there relationship is progressing.
The plot easily pulled me in and made me forget about the real world. I found myself needing to know what happens next every second of reading the book.
The world building was amazing too because I got to see more of the world and how it is far more complex than I thought before.
All on all, I loved it and suggest it to anyone who wants to escape the world for a fictional fantasy one instead.
I especially loved how strong and determined all the character's were, even the new side characters. The complicated relationships between all the characters also me love the story because no characters were black and white. I love seeing the two main leads and how there relationship is progressing.
The plot easily pulled me in and made me forget about the real world. I found myself needing to know what happens next every second of reading the book.
The world building was amazing too because I got to see more of the world and how it is far more complex than I thought before.
All on all, I loved it and suggest it to anyone who wants to escape the world for a fictional fantasy one instead.
April 23, 2023
I stayed up until 2am reading this book after finishing the previous one before remembering that sleep was probably a good idea. Zedong highkey gives Darkling vibes, which was absolutely terrifying (note - I'm a scardey cat and it was LATE! Or early, depending on how you look at it lol). But overall I thought this was a really interesting take on a villain character. That, and the mind games on both sides made for a slightly trippy yet thought provoking narrative rarely seen in romantasy.
I especially enjoyed the last 25%-ish of the book and I'm excited to see what happens next. Especially after that epilogue!
I especially enjoyed the last 25%-ish of the book and I'm excited to see what happens next. Especially after that epilogue!
April 14, 2023
Each book just keeps getting better and better! After the ending of Princess, I was dying to see how Shang and Meiling’s story continued. I could not put this book down! Anna is incredibly talented. Her creativity and imagination are astounding! The intricacies of the plot development and character depth keeps her readers deeply invested in her books. While I was originally partial to Kai / Arnaya, Shang has entirely won me over! I loved that this story pulled in details from Warrior to show a different point of view. I am DYING to know how the story continues!
April 21, 2023
4.5 ⭐️
Well… !
For starters, Meiling & Shang still have my heart. Feiyan is hilarious & I loved her comedic relief.
This book was great, no mistake. My issue was my own fault. 🙈
I have a series commitment & rarely read a series that isn’t finished, especially if it ends on a cliffhanger. (There are a few exceptions). I *thought* this book was the last one… nope. There’s 2 more, and they’re months away from releasing. 😭 I’m not sure how I’m supposed to come back from this… 😅
Anyways, like I said, the book was utterly fantastic!
And the intensity of this story… I’m a mess & my heart took a beating. So, so good!!
Well… !
For starters, Meiling & Shang still have my heart. Feiyan is hilarious & I loved her comedic relief.
This book was great, no mistake. My issue was my own fault. 🙈
I have a series commitment & rarely read a series that isn’t finished, especially if it ends on a cliffhanger. (There are a few exceptions). I *thought* this book was the last one… nope. There’s 2 more, and they’re months away from releasing. 😭 I’m not sure how I’m supposed to come back from this… 😅
Anyways, like I said, the book was utterly fantastic!
And the intensity of this story… I’m a mess & my heart took a beating. So, so good!!
September 1, 2023
This fourth book in the series continues the Meiling/Shang story arc which started in book three. In all of the previous books the characters spent much of the time travelling, but this book takes place largely in the enemy fortress where Meiling is imprisoned. Much of the focus is on Meiling's struggles to master her own insecurities and find a way to stand up to her captor as well as learning much more about her magic. There is still plenty of action and swoony romance between Meiling and Shang. The logisitical planning that must have gone into writing two separate but entwined story/character arcs (Aranya/Kai in books 1 & 2 and now Meiling/Shang in 3, 4 & soon 5) that happen at the same time and touch without every really joining is impressive.
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