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Queen in Exile
Rumors of War hang over Princess Jeniah's peaceful country of Arden, a land that shuns both magic and warfare. Following a lifelong dream, Jeniah forms a telepathic bond with a revered creature called a chayim, who is prophesied to save her kingdom. But when a Darborian knight comes upon Jeniah with her chayim, he sees only a vicious monster about to devour a maiden, and he slays the beast.
Devastated by the loss of her chayim, and fearing that her own magic is evil, Jeniah doubts her destiny. When an enemy invades Arden City, they slaughter the people, storm the castle, and execute the entire royal family except the princess. Rescued by the knight who slew her chayim, Jeniah is now heir to the throne of Arden and the only hope for freeing her people from tyranny.
On the run and hunted by enemy soldiers, Jeniah must place her life and the fate of her kingdom in the hands of this trained killer. Torn between embracing her destiny as queen af Arden, and her love for a mere knight, she must ultimately rely on her magic to save herself and her people from death and tyranny.
Devastated by the loss of her chayim, and fearing that her own magic is evil, Jeniah doubts her destiny. When an enemy invades Arden City, they slaughter the people, storm the castle, and execute the entire royal family except the princess. Rescued by the knight who slew her chayim, Jeniah is now heir to the throne of Arden and the only hope for freeing her people from tyranny.
On the run and hunted by enemy soldiers, Jeniah must place her life and the fate of her kingdom in the hands of this trained killer. Torn between embracing her destiny as queen af Arden, and her love for a mere knight, she must ultimately rely on her magic to save herself and her people from death and tyranny.
373 pages, Paperback
First published March 23, 2010
15 people are currently reading
5494 people want to read
About the author
Donna Hatch
43 books1,039 followersMulti-award-winning author of more than twenty best-selling Regency Historical Romances, Donna Hatch is a hopeful romantic and an adventurer at heart. Each book she writes is filled with wit and heart and plenty of swoon-worthy romance. Donna sings, plays the harp, and loves to ballroom dance. Her family, including six children and two cats, recently left their native Arizona for the Pacific coast of the US. No matter where they live, she and her husband of over twenty years are proof that there truly is a happily ever after.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 180 reviews
November 5, 2012
Don't get me wrong, I enjoyed reading it, but only because I was in the mood for something totally cliche that didn't require much brain power. :] A big turn off for me for this book was that they were both impossibly beautiful. Why do authors think we want to read about two perfect people falling in love?! Completely unrelatable. It wasn't a problem that he was "radiating masculine beauty" until I found out she was also "ethereally beautiful".I was smiling while I read it, but in the same way that I try not to laugh during the scene in Twilight where Edward is trying to stop sucking Bella's blood, all while Emmett and Jasper are having a tribal fire dance in the background. If that made any sense... Fun, typical, easy read about a rather meaningless romance. :] Sorry to those who loved it.
April 29, 2012
I love romance and this was cute, but the creatures I couldn't "see" them in my mind. This book really should have been divided into three books to allow the princes to grow in character.. ( she has her Young all through the book and then suddenly grow up to get back her kingdom, this would take some time of learning and although it was supposed to happen with her chayim.Only the chayim didn't tell her how.. Thought it would happen with
the wise women in Darbor but that didn't happen either)
One book is the happening developing characters and the over throw of the kingdom and to get her Darbor.
The second to have the King of Darbor teach her about Protocol and affairs of running a kingdom ( because in the book her father never let her in the council room to learn this )and secretly under her disguise as Lady Illane she meets Aragaeth and his suspicion of her as the princess grows , (he would not know her at sight because she is young and being the adversary he would not have been invited to the kingdom of Arden.)
And the developing of the romance with Kai and Aragaeth taking her as prisoner her character continues to grow
The third book is the rescue and the alliance with Aragaeth and she shows her as Queen ( with wisdom and ready to fight to get her kingdom back with the alliance of the other kingdoms) to over throw the adversary and win back her kingdom and the heart of Kai ..
I felt that if the Author had time to grow this book it could have possibly become a great novel with movie rights...
the wise women in Darbor but that didn't happen either)
One book is the happening developing characters and the over throw of the kingdom and to get her Darbor.
The second to have the King of Darbor teach her about Protocol and affairs of running a kingdom ( because in the book her father never let her in the council room to learn this )and secretly under her disguise as Lady Illane she meets Aragaeth and his suspicion of her as the princess grows , (he would not know her at sight because she is young and being the adversary he would not have been invited to the kingdom of Arden.)
And the developing of the romance with Kai and Aragaeth taking her as prisoner her character continues to grow
The third book is the rescue and the alliance with Aragaeth and she shows her as Queen ( with wisdom and ready to fight to get her kingdom back with the alliance of the other kingdoms) to over throw the adversary and win back her kingdom and the heart of Kai ..
I felt that if the Author had time to grow this book it could have possibly become a great novel with movie rights...
February 10, 2018
This book is a favourite of mine because I am a sucker for a sweeping fantasy, an epic romance and a lead female that goes from strength to strength. Queen in Exile is a book I have re-read several times now because I class it as one of my 'comfort books'.
The plot flows effortlessly and the characters are engaging but beautifully complex. Jeniah is a beautiful person inside and out and I will forever be in love with Kai because I would love a knight in shining armour (Yes I know I'm meant to be a strong independent woman, so sue me!) to sweep me off my feet.
The battle is long and hard for both characters and the ending is hard fought for (literally) and even the romance has to be fought for. There's a message here that I like to hold on to, and that's that all the good stuff in life is worth fighting for and it won't be won easily.
A charming, romantic and fantastical novel that will entrance any reader :)
The plot flows effortlessly and the characters are engaging but beautifully complex. Jeniah is a beautiful person inside and out and I will forever be in love with Kai because I would love a knight in shining armour (Yes I know I'm meant to be a strong independent woman, so sue me!) to sweep me off my feet.
The battle is long and hard for both characters and the ending is hard fought for (literally) and even the romance has to be fought for. There's a message here that I like to hold on to, and that's that all the good stuff in life is worth fighting for and it won't be won easily.
A charming, romantic and fantastical novel that will entrance any reader :)
June 6, 2020
Second read (September 2011): Enjoyed it as much this time around. Donna's Fantasy novel is totally different than her Regency books. Both are enjoyable and full of awesome characters. I hope she write's more in both genres.
First read (May 2010): Donna Hatch is quickly becoming a favorite author of mine. I’ve read all her regencies and was excited to see what her fantasy world would be like. I wasn’t disappointed, it was clear that Hatch put a lot of thought into creating her world of Arden and the surrounding countries, as well as all the new and interesting creatures that roamed the land. Princess Jeniah was very believable and consistent. While her character did grow throughout the story, I still felt like she stayed true to herself, she was just given more opportunities to show her character throughout her trials. I liked that she was smart and could take care of herself, and was also still vulnerable and wasn’t afraid to get help. I am definitely a fan of Kai (Team Kai), he was a great hero and I loved watching him fall in love with Jeniah, they had great chemistry together. I really enjoyed their story. I’m pretty sure this is a stand-alone novel, which I liked. It was nice entering their world and having some satisfactory conclusions at the end. However, it also would have been nice if it had been a trilogy and some things dragged out a little more, either way it’s a great read and I recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good romantic fantasy.
Content Warning: There is a lot of war, battle scenes and some violence. Otherwise, it’s pretty clean.
Bookworm Rating: 4.5
Similar Books You May Enjoy...
First read (May 2010): Donna Hatch is quickly becoming a favorite author of mine. I’ve read all her regencies and was excited to see what her fantasy world would be like. I wasn’t disappointed, it was clear that Hatch put a lot of thought into creating her world of Arden and the surrounding countries, as well as all the new and interesting creatures that roamed the land. Princess Jeniah was very believable and consistent. While her character did grow throughout the story, I still felt like she stayed true to herself, she was just given more opportunities to show her character throughout her trials. I liked that she was smart and could take care of herself, and was also still vulnerable and wasn’t afraid to get help. I am definitely a fan of Kai (Team Kai), he was a great hero and I loved watching him fall in love with Jeniah, they had great chemistry together. I really enjoyed their story. I’m pretty sure this is a stand-alone novel, which I liked. It was nice entering their world and having some satisfactory conclusions at the end. However, it also would have been nice if it had been a trilogy and some things dragged out a little more, either way it’s a great read and I recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good romantic fantasy.
Content Warning: There is a lot of war, battle scenes and some violence. Otherwise, it’s pretty clean.
Bookworm Rating: 4.5
Similar Books You May Enjoy...
August 6, 2016
I think unless I pick up a romance novel, I really don't want very much romance in my book. If it is very, very secondary I don't mind, but if it's the main point of the story, I'm not interested. I think I've grown less tolerant in this area than I've been in the past. It seems like the romance here was a little too sickeningly sweet, and I don't want that in my fantasy novels.
The characters just didn't do it for me here. I might have been able to get past the romance if I had really liked the characters, but I didn't connect with them. Jeniah seemed like a typical YA heroine who chaffed at the roles she was given. There didn't seem to be anything particularly original about her. The chayim thing was different, but I didn't get into the book enough for me to care.
There was one point in the story, a couple of sentences, where I knew that I couldn't read any more. It was just too much:
As she gazed at him, she realized that her feelings for him had surpassed friendly affection. At that instant, she freely and willingly gave him her heart, even sensing that he still shielded his against her.
I think someone who enjoys fantasy romance might really like this one, but it just wasn't my style at all. I'm not sure that I'd read any more by this author, especially with my TBR pile being what it is. I gave this one over 100 pages, but at that point I still wasn't interested, and could easily put it down without caring what happened, so I took it back to the library.
The characters just didn't do it for me here. I might have been able to get past the romance if I had really liked the characters, but I didn't connect with them. Jeniah seemed like a typical YA heroine who chaffed at the roles she was given. There didn't seem to be anything particularly original about her. The chayim thing was different, but I didn't get into the book enough for me to care.
There was one point in the story, a couple of sentences, where I knew that I couldn't read any more. It was just too much:
As she gazed at him, she realized that her feelings for him had surpassed friendly affection. At that instant, she freely and willingly gave him her heart, even sensing that he still shielded his against her.
I think someone who enjoys fantasy romance might really like this one, but it just wasn't my style at all. I'm not sure that I'd read any more by this author, especially with my TBR pile being what it is. I gave this one over 100 pages, but at that point I still wasn't interested, and could easily put it down without caring what happened, so I took it back to the library.
March 31, 2012
I had a lot of problems with this story. Both characters were gorgeous, and they spent plenty of time mooning over the physical perfection of the other. Despite the action, most of it feels like a dramatic teen romance. The hero is wounded at heart and frequently says things like, he could not allow her to get close to his heart. The major impediment to their love is the fact that he is a commoner and she is royalty, so he is constantly pulling away from her and reminding himself that she is unattainable. I had a hard time describing what bothered me about the writing. The closest I could get was there is no depth to it. Everything is stated and accepted so easily. An example is he kills the animal she has just forged a telepathic bond with. After a few pages of anger at him, she says she understands and forgives him. It was just too simplistic. I kept thinking it would get better, but at about halfway through I had to give up.
October 28, 2012
Happy Birthday to me! This was a book that I just got from a spoiling friend for my Birthday. All I can ever say about Donna Hatch is that I LOVE HER!!! I wish she wrote books weekly and I wish I could read them over and over for the first time.
I loved this book. I can finally say it again...I LOVED A BOOK! It's felt like forever since I have wanted to endlessly read a book. The main hearthrob Kai is everything you ever want in your leading man. I even loved Jeniah. They were so great together and I really love it when an author actually lets them interact through the whole book. It makes the story so much more believable. They had amazing chemistry and the story just flowed.
I like the magic element even though I thought it was kept at a minimum. The beginning part was hard when Arden was falling but how it all ended was so good.
I truly will read this book over and over. I loved it!
I loved this book. I can finally say it again...I LOVED A BOOK! It's felt like forever since I have wanted to endlessly read a book. The main hearthrob Kai is everything you ever want in your leading man. I even loved Jeniah. They were so great together and I really love it when an author actually lets them interact through the whole book. It makes the story so much more believable. They had amazing chemistry and the story just flowed.
I like the magic element even though I thought it was kept at a minimum. The beginning part was hard when Arden was falling but how it all ended was so good.
I truly will read this book over and over. I loved it!
February 12, 2017
I really, really enjoyed this book. It was a beautifully written fantasy romance with a clean romance that I just loved. The touch of fantasy that was thrown in made it a great read for me. It's pure escapism so that made it perfect for the mood I was in. I'll be looking for more by this author.
October 20, 2010
There are few books that completely sweep me away into their worlds, and leave me thinking about them days after I've read them. In some cases I have to fight the urge to not pick it back up and read it immediately after I've finished it. Donna Hatch's Queen in Exile did just that, as it held me captive the moment I opened the book and entered it's beautiful world.
Queen in Exile has everything I love in a good fantasy book, lore, action, romance, forbidden love, a strong heroine who emulates everything I love in a main character, along with a dash of humor, wit and suspense. Donna weaved together the perfect blend of romance, forbidden love, and the right amount of action, that I couldn't put the book down and happily lost sleep over reading it.
Not only is the setting beautiful and vivid, but the characters are lively. Jeniah is the beautiful Princess of Arden. She has a hidden magic ability to "blur", which allows her to stay in her form and blend in or look different to those looking at her. Gifted with a very rare bond with a mythical creature called a chayim, who will be a source of guidance and strength for her, Jeniah is destined for great things. I really love her character. She has quickly become a favorite heroine of mine and she's a character I came to admire for her strength and wit.
Highly favored by his King and known for his strength, Kai Darkwood was sent to Jeniah's kingdom to help them in time of war. Upon arriving, this Knight in shining armer sees what he thought was Jeniah in distress, he kills the chayim not knowing it's rare ability. Now forced into exile as war hits her kingdom and consumes everything she's ever had, including her family, Jeniah now finds her life is in the hands of the dashing Knight Kai Darkwood. Jeniah discovers Kai isn't a ruthless killer, as she envisions all Knights to be and Kai, who's loyal and faithful to the customs of his land, finds the ability to love again, even though he knows a heir to the throne and a commoner can't marry. What I really love about Kai and Jeniah's relationship is how it developed. I felt it was real and not a forced or rushed one. They both learn to trust and rely on each other, and the end result is a breath taking love story that left me with a happy sigh at the end of their story.
I really liked the cast of characters that make up Kai and Jeniah's guards and friends. Kai's oldest friend Garhern brings the right amount of snark to the story, as he had me laughing out loud. I really liked the scenes with Garhern, Jeniah and Kia, as I felt that I was being let in on the secrets both Kia and Garhern have closely guarded for years. These two know how to dish it out to each other. The action, the characters, the twists and a possible secondary love interest made Queen in Exile come alive for me. If you're looking to get swept away in a unforgettable love story, full of adventure, suspense and sprinkled with a few hot boys with swords, I highly recommend picking up this book!
**Sophie, I hope you enjoyed the use of your tag line** lol
Queen in Exile has everything I love in a good fantasy book, lore, action, romance, forbidden love, a strong heroine who emulates everything I love in a main character, along with a dash of humor, wit and suspense. Donna weaved together the perfect blend of romance, forbidden love, and the right amount of action, that I couldn't put the book down and happily lost sleep over reading it.
Not only is the setting beautiful and vivid, but the characters are lively. Jeniah is the beautiful Princess of Arden. She has a hidden magic ability to "blur", which allows her to stay in her form and blend in or look different to those looking at her. Gifted with a very rare bond with a mythical creature called a chayim, who will be a source of guidance and strength for her, Jeniah is destined for great things. I really love her character. She has quickly become a favorite heroine of mine and she's a character I came to admire for her strength and wit.
Highly favored by his King and known for his strength, Kai Darkwood was sent to Jeniah's kingdom to help them in time of war. Upon arriving, this Knight in shining armer sees what he thought was Jeniah in distress, he kills the chayim not knowing it's rare ability. Now forced into exile as war hits her kingdom and consumes everything she's ever had, including her family, Jeniah now finds her life is in the hands of the dashing Knight Kai Darkwood. Jeniah discovers Kai isn't a ruthless killer, as she envisions all Knights to be and Kai, who's loyal and faithful to the customs of his land, finds the ability to love again, even though he knows a heir to the throne and a commoner can't marry. What I really love about Kai and Jeniah's relationship is how it developed. I felt it was real and not a forced or rushed one. They both learn to trust and rely on each other, and the end result is a breath taking love story that left me with a happy sigh at the end of their story.
I really liked the cast of characters that make up Kai and Jeniah's guards and friends. Kai's oldest friend Garhern brings the right amount of snark to the story, as he had me laughing out loud. I really liked the scenes with Garhern, Jeniah and Kia, as I felt that I was being let in on the secrets both Kia and Garhern have closely guarded for years. These two know how to dish it out to each other. The action, the characters, the twists and a possible secondary love interest made Queen in Exile come alive for me. If you're looking to get swept away in a unforgettable love story, full of adventure, suspense and sprinkled with a few hot boys with swords, I highly recommend picking up this book!
**Sophie, I hope you enjoyed the use of your tag line** lol
January 10, 2011
A well documented weakness of mine is a Hot Boy with Sword and what could possibly be better than a knight sent to help a neighboring kingdom prepare for a war? The answer is nothing, of course, because that premise alone has me hooked.
Donna Hatch pens an absolutely delicious fantasy, rich in setting and with a plot that will leave you wondering what's coming around the next corner. The journey that Kai and Jeniah take is one that removes Jeniah from the only land she's known into, literally, foreign territory. Her only companion is Kai, who is bound by duty and completely closed off. If you love romance as much as I do, you may have grinned right there because let me tell you, the reason the story kept me riveted is because of their developing relationship.
I do need to add that the mythology of the chayim created a nice plot element and enriched the fantasy aspect of the story. Plus, who doesn't love a terrifying beastie? My love for politics in fantasy stories is definitely satisfied as well because the intracacies of alliances torn apart and challenged is a main theme.
So when you're in the mood to read about a princess, a knight, a perilous journey and that once-in-a-lifetime romance, pick up Donna Hatch's Queen in Exile, you'll be lost in a fantasy world filled with adventure.
Donna Hatch pens an absolutely delicious fantasy, rich in setting and with a plot that will leave you wondering what's coming around the next corner. The journey that Kai and Jeniah take is one that removes Jeniah from the only land she's known into, literally, foreign territory. Her only companion is Kai, who is bound by duty and completely closed off. If you love romance as much as I do, you may have grinned right there because let me tell you, the reason the story kept me riveted is because of their developing relationship.
I do need to add that the mythology of the chayim created a nice plot element and enriched the fantasy aspect of the story. Plus, who doesn't love a terrifying beastie? My love for politics in fantasy stories is definitely satisfied as well because the intracacies of alliances torn apart and challenged is a main theme.
So when you're in the mood to read about a princess, a knight, a perilous journey and that once-in-a-lifetime romance, pick up Donna Hatch's Queen in Exile, you'll be lost in a fantasy world filled with adventure.
March 8, 2011
I'm not a big fantasy reader, but I really enjoyed this book! Especially once I got past the first 35 pages or so. Until then, the story is building and the fantasy/magic part really comes out.
Jeniah is a princess in a kingdom with two moons. Kai is a common man/turned knight, who is sent from another kingdom to train up warriors for a rumored war. They meet in the forest, before either one realizes who each other is. When her kingdom is suddenly taken by a surprise attack, she has to escape to save her life and Kai takes it upon himself to make sure she stays safe.
I really liked Jeniah. At first, she seemed a little spoiled, but she wasn't one to back down and give up. She went through so much, but made sure to discover her strengths and keep her courage. She really grew into a fair, strong woman.
Kai...what's not to like? He shows so much honor and loyalty. He's a real man. And I, personally, liked the fact that they were both so beautiful.
The ending was perfect!! This story has it all--fantasy, loyalties, knights, princesses, romance (clean), unique creatures, mystery, adventure, violence/battles, etc. I was pleasantly surprised that I could like a sci fi fantasy so much.
Jeniah is a princess in a kingdom with two moons. Kai is a common man/turned knight, who is sent from another kingdom to train up warriors for a rumored war. They meet in the forest, before either one realizes who each other is. When her kingdom is suddenly taken by a surprise attack, she has to escape to save her life and Kai takes it upon himself to make sure she stays safe.
I really liked Jeniah. At first, she seemed a little spoiled, but she wasn't one to back down and give up. She went through so much, but made sure to discover her strengths and keep her courage. She really grew into a fair, strong woman.
Kai...what's not to like? He shows so much honor and loyalty. He's a real man. And I, personally, liked the fact that they were both so beautiful.
The ending was perfect!! This story has it all--fantasy, loyalties, knights, princesses, romance (clean), unique creatures, mystery, adventure, violence/battles, etc. I was pleasantly surprised that I could like a sci fi fantasy so much.
June 10, 2011
I will admit that I was a little skeptical when I first picked up Queen in Exile by Donna Hatch. I wasn't sure if I was going to enjoy it - I'm strange when it comes to fantasy. I like most elements of it, and yet some just ... don't work for me. I don't really understand high fantasy, and when everything has strange names and I'm having to keep twelve thousand characters straight ... that's not my talent. I have to say, though, that I was very pleasantly entertained by this novel.
Kai, the Darborian knight, did cause a few heart flutters in this crusty old reviewer. I was very intrigued by the connection between Jeniah and her magical creature, the chayim - which reminded me of the tales of maidens and their ability to touch unicorns, but the chayim connection is a lot deeper and has more purpose. The plot moved forward at a really good pace and I read it in two or three sittings.
I liked the combination of action and romance, adventure and magic. All in all, it was a very enjoyable read - without twelve thousand strange names to remember. I was able to track everything just fine.
Kai, the Darborian knight, did cause a few heart flutters in this crusty old reviewer. I was very intrigued by the connection between Jeniah and her magical creature, the chayim - which reminded me of the tales of maidens and their ability to touch unicorns, but the chayim connection is a lot deeper and has more purpose. The plot moved forward at a really good pace and I read it in two or three sittings.
I liked the combination of action and romance, adventure and magic. All in all, it was a very enjoyable read - without twelve thousand strange names to remember. I was able to track everything just fine.
September 10, 2010
Tifferz Take:
I have entered every contest possible to get my hands on this book and it paid off! I was a lucky winner. I was not asked to review this book! I wanted to because you all may not know about it! I got the book and started reading and did not put the book down till it was done! This is such an enchanting tail that Donna has spun for all of us to enjoy. I was drawn into the tail so quickly and fell in love with Jeniah and Kai. Jeniah is such a strong character and I liked her thought process. Kai the hero you would have to be a dim wit not to love him. I felt the charcters really grew in this tail.
This tail will include but is not limited to the following: fantasy, heart pounding adventure, action, romance, fantastic kissing, (no more than kissing...so it is clean)honor, magic, satisfying ending!
Queen in Exile is a fantasy romance that lacked nothing! This is a must have book! Five stars all the way! I loved this tail. Thanks Donna for sharing with us! I am dying for your next book!
I have entered every contest possible to get my hands on this book and it paid off! I was a lucky winner. I was not asked to review this book! I wanted to because you all may not know about it! I got the book and started reading and did not put the book down till it was done! This is such an enchanting tail that Donna has spun for all of us to enjoy. I was drawn into the tail so quickly and fell in love with Jeniah and Kai. Jeniah is such a strong character and I liked her thought process. Kai the hero you would have to be a dim wit not to love him. I felt the charcters really grew in this tail.
This tail will include but is not limited to the following: fantasy, heart pounding adventure, action, romance, fantastic kissing, (no more than kissing...so it is clean)honor, magic, satisfying ending!
Queen in Exile is a fantasy romance that lacked nothing! This is a must have book! Five stars all the way! I loved this tail. Thanks Donna for sharing with us! I am dying for your next book!
March 21, 2012
This fantasy/historical romance was hard to put down. It is action packed from start to finish with both adventure and romance. There is never a dull moment, and I enjoyed the characters and the fact that it was a clean romance. Better written than many of the other romances I have read.
December 2, 2010
There are few books that completely sweep me away into their worlds, and leave me thinking about them days after I've read them. In some cases I have to fight the urge to not pick it back up and read it immediately after I've finished it. Donna Hatch's Queen in Exile did just that, as it held me captive the moment I opened the book and entered it's beautiful world.
Queen in Exile has everything I love in a good fantasy book, lore, action, romance, forbidden love, a strong heroine who emulates everything I love in a main character, along with a dash of humor, wit and suspense. Donna weaved together the perfect blend of romance, forbidden love, and the right amount of action, that I couldn't put the book down and happily lost sleep over reading it.
Not only is the setting beautiful and vivid, but the characters are lively. Jeniah is the beautiful Princess of Arden. She has a hidden magic ability to "blur", which allows her to stay in her form and blend in or look different to those looking at her. Gifted with a very rare bond with a mythical creature called a chayim, who will be a source of guidance and strength for her, Jeniah is destined for great things. I really love her character. She has quickly become a favorite heroine of mine and she's a character I came to admire for her strength and wit.
Highly favored by his King and known for his strength, Kai Darkwood was sent to Jeniah's kingdom to help them in time of war. Upon arriving, this Knight in shining armer sees what he thought was Jeniah in distress, he kills the chayim not knowing it's rare ability. Now forced into exile as war hits her kingdom and consumes everything she's ever had, including her family, Jeniah now finds her life is in the hands of the dashing Knight Kai Darkwood. Jeniah discovers Kai isn't a ruthless killer, as she envisions all Knights to be and Kai, who's loyal and faithful to the customs of his land, finds the ability to love again, even though he knows a heir to the throne and a commoner can't marry. What I really love about Kai and Jeniah's relationship is how it developed. I felt it was real and not a forced or rushed one. They both learn to trust and rely on each other, and the end result is a breath taking love story that left me with a happy sigh at the end of their story.
I really liked the cast of characters that make up Kai and Jeniah's guards and friends. Kai's oldest friend Garhern brings the right amount of snark to the story, as he had me laughing out loud. I really liked the scenes with Garhern, Jeniah and Kia, as I felt that I was being let in on the secrets both Kia and Garhern have closely guarded for years. These two know how to dish it out to each other. The action, the characters, the twists and a possible secondary love interest made Queen in Exile come alive for me. If you're looking to get swept away in a unforgettable love story, full of adventure, suspense and sprinkled with a few hot boys with swords, I highly recommend picking up this book!
**Sophie, I hope you enjoyed the use of your tag line** lol
Queen in Exile has everything I love in a good fantasy book, lore, action, romance, forbidden love, a strong heroine who emulates everything I love in a main character, along with a dash of humor, wit and suspense. Donna weaved together the perfect blend of romance, forbidden love, and the right amount of action, that I couldn't put the book down and happily lost sleep over reading it.
Not only is the setting beautiful and vivid, but the characters are lively. Jeniah is the beautiful Princess of Arden. She has a hidden magic ability to "blur", which allows her to stay in her form and blend in or look different to those looking at her. Gifted with a very rare bond with a mythical creature called a chayim, who will be a source of guidance and strength for her, Jeniah is destined for great things. I really love her character. She has quickly become a favorite heroine of mine and she's a character I came to admire for her strength and wit.
Highly favored by his King and known for his strength, Kai Darkwood was sent to Jeniah's kingdom to help them in time of war. Upon arriving, this Knight in shining armer sees what he thought was Jeniah in distress, he kills the chayim not knowing it's rare ability. Now forced into exile as war hits her kingdom and consumes everything she's ever had, including her family, Jeniah now finds her life is in the hands of the dashing Knight Kai Darkwood. Jeniah discovers Kai isn't a ruthless killer, as she envisions all Knights to be and Kai, who's loyal and faithful to the customs of his land, finds the ability to love again, even though he knows a heir to the throne and a commoner can't marry. What I really love about Kai and Jeniah's relationship is how it developed. I felt it was real and not a forced or rushed one. They both learn to trust and rely on each other, and the end result is a breath taking love story that left me with a happy sigh at the end of their story.
I really liked the cast of characters that make up Kai and Jeniah's guards and friends. Kai's oldest friend Garhern brings the right amount of snark to the story, as he had me laughing out loud. I really liked the scenes with Garhern, Jeniah and Kia, as I felt that I was being let in on the secrets both Kia and Garhern have closely guarded for years. These two know how to dish it out to each other. The action, the characters, the twists and a possible secondary love interest made Queen in Exile come alive for me. If you're looking to get swept away in a unforgettable love story, full of adventure, suspense and sprinkled with a few hot boys with swords, I highly recommend picking up this book!
**Sophie, I hope you enjoyed the use of your tag line** lol
May 11, 2010
Rumors of war hang over Princess Jeniah's peaceful country of Arden, a land that shuns both magic and warfare. Following a lifelong dream, Jeniah forms a telepathic bond with a revered creature called a chayim, who is prophesied to save her kingdom. But when a Darborian knight comes upon Jeniah with her chayim, he sees only a vicious monster about to devour a maiden, and he slays the beast.
Devastated by the loss of her chayim, and fearing that her own magic is evil, Jeniah doubts her destiny. When an enemy invades Arden City, they slaughter the people, storm the castle, and execute the entire royal family except the princess. Rescued by the knight who slew her chayim, Jeniah is now heir to the throne of Arden and the only hope for freeing her people from tyranny.
On the run and hunted by enemy soldiers, Jeniah must place her life and the fate of her kingdom in the hands of this trained killer. Torn between embracing her destiny as queen of Arden, and her love for a mere knight, she must ultimately rely on her magic to save herself and her people from death and tyranny.
A wonderful story!!! Read it in one day because I could not put it down... Jeniah and Kai were perfect!!! I absolutely loved Kai! He is a knight from another kingdom and sworn to protect her and her kingdom. She is a tender princess with a great sense of duty. Together they make an unlikely pair and the story unfolds beautifully.
Devastated by the loss of her chayim, and fearing that her own magic is evil, Jeniah doubts her destiny. When an enemy invades Arden City, they slaughter the people, storm the castle, and execute the entire royal family except the princess. Rescued by the knight who slew her chayim, Jeniah is now heir to the throne of Arden and the only hope for freeing her people from tyranny.
On the run and hunted by enemy soldiers, Jeniah must place her life and the fate of her kingdom in the hands of this trained killer. Torn between embracing her destiny as queen of Arden, and her love for a mere knight, she must ultimately rely on her magic to save herself and her people from death and tyranny.
A wonderful story!!! Read it in one day because I could not put it down... Jeniah and Kai were perfect!!! I absolutely loved Kai! He is a knight from another kingdom and sworn to protect her and her kingdom. She is a tender princess with a great sense of duty. Together they make an unlikely pair and the story unfolds beautifully.
April 28, 2012
I tried to like this book. I just couldn't do it. The story line was good but, Hatch would just go around in circles. The thing with Kai saying over and over again. It was the same with Jeniah. It made the book more agonizing to read than anything else.
Then, all through ought the book all I could think of is how naive her writing is, and also about history battle sequence. Also I tried so hard to like the characters,but that failed.
But like I said, the meat of the story is good. Hatch just need to get past the fluff and there was way more fluff then meat. The spelling of the names was way to confusing. Also the description of the animals were way too vague. Hatch used wolves,cats, and goats for discriptoin how would her characters know what a the goat, cats, bare, and wolves looked liked?
Jeniah was a child, her father willfully had her ignorant of the matters of state, and diplomatic affairs. So how would Jeniah know how to be a leader if she wasn't trained. I fully expected to have the king and the sorceress of Darbor teach Jeniah what she needed to know. Things like how to use her magic, and how to be a good leader. So in other words this book needed to be divided up. Jeniah need time to grow and learn. Not just all of the sudden know everything off the bat.
Thank heavens I am done with the book.
Then, all through ought the book all I could think of is how naive her writing is, and also about history battle sequence. Also I tried so hard to like the characters,but that failed.
But like I said, the meat of the story is good. Hatch just need to get past the fluff and there was way more fluff then meat. The spelling of the names was way to confusing. Also the description of the animals were way too vague. Hatch used wolves,cats, and goats for discriptoin how would her characters know what a the goat, cats, bare, and wolves looked liked?
Jeniah was a child, her father willfully had her ignorant of the matters of state, and diplomatic affairs. So how would Jeniah know how to be a leader if she wasn't trained. I fully expected to have the king and the sorceress of Darbor teach Jeniah what she needed to know. Things like how to use her magic, and how to be a good leader. So in other words this book needed to be divided up. Jeniah need time to grow and learn. Not just all of the sudden know everything off the bat.
Thank heavens I am done with the book.
May 11, 2012
This book is a new favorite! Writing this review makes me want to go back and read it again. It was so great! I'm gushing now.
This could be Young Adult or Adult. It's borderline. Jeniah was 18 at the start but nineteen for the majority of the book and twenty at the end. The boy interest was definitely not a little boy. Kai was twenty-six and a powerful warrior brought from an ally country to Jeniah's country to train their troops. One little detail of Kai's character I loved was the way he treated his young squire. His kindness made me think highly of him.
I wasn't sure I would like this book at the beginning. The chayim thing was weird to me at first, but I quickly grew to love the scenery, characters, plot . . . everything! I'm pretty sure I went through every emotion possible during this read. I laughed, sighed, and cried. I was terrified, relieved, and excited. It was as if I lived that year of Jeniah's life crammed into the two days it took me to read it. I love books that can take me on that journey of emotions.
I recommend Queen In Exile to everyone! It has action AND romance. It doesn't get better than that.
See my Content Ratings on my new book blog. Clean Adult Fiction
This could be Young Adult or Adult. It's borderline. Jeniah was 18 at the start but nineteen for the majority of the book and twenty at the end. The boy interest was definitely not a little boy. Kai was twenty-six and a powerful warrior brought from an ally country to Jeniah's country to train their troops. One little detail of Kai's character I loved was the way he treated his young squire. His kindness made me think highly of him.
I wasn't sure I would like this book at the beginning. The chayim thing was weird to me at first, but I quickly grew to love the scenery, characters, plot . . . everything! I'm pretty sure I went through every emotion possible during this read. I laughed, sighed, and cried. I was terrified, relieved, and excited. It was as if I lived that year of Jeniah's life crammed into the two days it took me to read it. I love books that can take me on that journey of emotions.
I recommend Queen In Exile to everyone! It has action AND romance. It doesn't get better than that.
See my Content Ratings on my new book blog. Clean Adult Fiction
February 17, 2013
4.5 rating.
I loved loved loved this book! Well written with completely swoon worthy main characters and a few good supporting characters. The heroine was just fantastic and I loved that she was smart, had a deep sense of integrity and morality, and a strength of character. The hero was much the same and I enjoyed reading about how these two came together and how they overcame physical and emotional hurdles. Their romance was believable and true. I appreciated that it was based on more than just surface.
I liked seeing the hero and heroine develop their romance through an engaging plot. The storyline was exciting and kept me anxious to read more.
My only reason for not giving this a full five stars, despite the fact that it is now one of my favorites, is that it was a tad long and there was so much stuffed between the pages it was a lot to absorb. I do like that it is a stand alone book, that being said however, I wouldn't mind seeing a sequel novel revolving around Garhren ... the roguish best friend. He was sarcastic and witty, yet loyal and I could sense a deeper character within him. I would love to see a story play out involving him.
I would definitely recommend this book if you love a sweet yet deep romance and an exciting adventure tied up in one. I may even find myself picking this one up again.
I loved loved loved this book! Well written with completely swoon worthy main characters and a few good supporting characters. The heroine was just fantastic and I loved that she was smart, had a deep sense of integrity and morality, and a strength of character. The hero was much the same and I enjoyed reading about how these two came together and how they overcame physical and emotional hurdles. Their romance was believable and true. I appreciated that it was based on more than just surface.
I liked seeing the hero and heroine develop their romance through an engaging plot. The storyline was exciting and kept me anxious to read more.
My only reason for not giving this a full five stars, despite the fact that it is now one of my favorites, is that it was a tad long and there was so much stuffed between the pages it was a lot to absorb. I do like that it is a stand alone book, that being said however, I wouldn't mind seeing a sequel novel revolving around Garhren ... the roguish best friend. He was sarcastic and witty, yet loyal and I could sense a deeper character within him. I would love to see a story play out involving him.
I would definitely recommend this book if you love a sweet yet deep romance and an exciting adventure tied up in one. I may even find myself picking this one up again.
November 1, 2010
Beautiful cover, beautifully written book.
I don't know what it is but this book felt good in my hands.
The first chapter was by far one of the best few pages I've read in some time !
It caught me whole and seized me till I finished the book.
I feel like it's safe to say that this book is mostly about second chance, and believing within yourself that you hold that chance on your own whenever you need it.
Which is why it's unlike most love stories you read on books these days.
It's about different kind of love.
Trusting someone with your whole heart and not really wanting to receive something in return but just wait with patience.
Knowing when to let go and move on with your life does not mean you are cruel or cold hearted, it's just another way to live and cope with your own life.
If you want something deep and bad, even the universe will line up just for you.
And mostly "a new beginning."
This book is not especially descriptive or violent or excruciatingly heart-breaking but it was so, so, so, beautiful.
I don't know what it is but this book felt good in my hands.
The first chapter was by far one of the best few pages I've read in some time !
It caught me whole and seized me till I finished the book.
I feel like it's safe to say that this book is mostly about second chance, and believing within yourself that you hold that chance on your own whenever you need it.
Which is why it's unlike most love stories you read on books these days.
It's about different kind of love.
Trusting someone with your whole heart and not really wanting to receive something in return but just wait with patience.
Knowing when to let go and move on with your life does not mean you are cruel or cold hearted, it's just another way to live and cope with your own life.
If you want something deep and bad, even the universe will line up just for you.
And mostly "a new beginning."
This book is not especially descriptive or violent or excruciatingly heart-breaking but it was so, so, so, beautiful.
July 22, 2010
I don't generally read fantasy, and when I do it's along the lines of Diana Wynne Jones and JK Rowling, i.e., YA non-romance. So this was a first to me, and because of that, I don't know how to judge it against others in this genre. I expected equal parts fantasy and romance, but felt the romance angle (which was very well done!) was stronger than the fantasy angle, although the fantasy element was definitely there. But since, as I said, I don't read much fantasy romance, I can't judge whether Queen in Exile had the normal balance of the two themes. In the fantasy realm, I particularly enjoyed the relationship between Jeniah and her chayim and the concept of blurring. As mentioned above, the romance was rich and satisfying. I expect this will be a fun read for lovers of fantasy romances!
January 9, 2013
Wow. What can I say? I really wanted to love this book. It had all the hallmarks of a great story. But it just fell flat. Maybe if the author didn't try to jam that much action into under 400 pages. But it seemed rushed and contrived. Everything was wrapped up too easily and nicely for my liking. I like a happy ending but I like for the characters to have to work at it a little. The characters were too shallow and not very interesting. Inhumanly beautiful people rarely are. The most interesting aspect of this book (bonding with a mythical creature) wasn't even explored beyond a brief explanation if the importance of it and how it was part of Jeniah's destiny.
I probably would have liked it better if I hadn't just read the nearly perfect book (Cinder).
I probably would have liked it better if I hadn't just read the nearly perfect book (Cinder).
February 22, 2012
After reading a book that was NOT character driven at all, this was a welcome addition. I loved the two main characters almost instantly. The romance aspect is sweet and their interactions/dialogue are NOT pathetic (which is hard to find in a romance). The storyline moved along quickly and it all shapes up in a happily ever after ending (which is exactly what I was after). I highly recommend this one if that's what you're looking for. I'm liking Donna Hatch quite a bit for a fun, romantic pick-me-up.
May 25, 2010
I heard about this book on the chatter for the clean reads group I am on here at goodreads. What a good book, Donna Hatch. I just loved it! I finished it yesterday and I'm still thinking about it today. I want to read more. That's how I KNOW it's a good book. What would I say made it a good book? I love a book with strong characters. Loyalty, romance...um, yum. I have also read The Stranger She Married and enjoyed that, but not as much as this book.
February 19, 2011
Wow an amazing Adult romance. I was a little shocked at some of the violence in this book. I just wasn't expecting it. There is a almost rape scene, human sacrifices and some nudity.For anyone who has a hard time with violence this is not a great book for you. And I would not recommend it to anyone who is not an adult.The love story was beautifully written and completely believable.The story line was great and I had a hard time putting the book down.
November 4, 2014
Actually surprised more people haven't heard of this because it was a very good story. Similar to Graceling, but not so much to where it takes away from the story and characters. I would definitely recommend this to anyone in need of a good middle grade/fantasy.
March 28, 2013
This book was sooooo good. I stayed up til 2:30 last night reading it and with two small kids at home, I try not to let anything get in the way of my sleep. It was worth it too! I'm so glad I decided to buy this one!
December 28, 2014
*sigh*
Oh how I loved Queen in Exile!! As always... Donna Hatch did an amazing job!! This is definitely one that I'll read over and over again and share it with everyone! I can't wait to read the next adventure that Donna has in store!
Oh how I loved Queen in Exile!! As always... Donna Hatch did an amazing job!! This is definitely one that I'll read over and over again and share it with everyone! I can't wait to read the next adventure that Donna has in store!
September 27, 2011
sloppy, messy, shallow but enjoyable pop fantasy
pg13 green green green
pg13 green green green
March 10, 2011
What a great book and a great author! No language and clean all the way through. I could read this book many times over.
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