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Sons of Destiny #8.5
Finding Destiny
Four brand-new novellas, from the national bestselling author of the Sons of Destiny series.
The slave...Chanson, a privileged Arbran dyara, discovers an unexpected connection with the excitingly different Eduor, a bracingly sexy war-slave who desires his freedom.
The knight...The Arbran diplomat Sir Zeilas must turn the Guildaran people from former enemies into allies. But in the case of their intriguingly beautiful leader, perhaps something more intimate is in order.
The mage...Gabria never expected to become a Guildaran envoy to Aurul. But the most stunning surprise was what waited for her in His Majesty's winter palace-and why.
The pirate...Captain Ellett would do anything for his king-even hunt down the pirates plaguing the Jenodan Isles. But he never counted on the seductive powers of the pirate's captain-beautiful, tempestuous, and impossible to resist.
The slave...Chanson, a privileged Arbran dyara, discovers an unexpected connection with the excitingly different Eduor, a bracingly sexy war-slave who desires his freedom.
The knight...The Arbran diplomat Sir Zeilas must turn the Guildaran people from former enemies into allies. But in the case of their intriguingly beautiful leader, perhaps something more intimate is in order.
The mage...Gabria never expected to become a Guildaran envoy to Aurul. But the most stunning surprise was what waited for her in His Majesty's winter palace-and why.
The pirate...Captain Ellett would do anything for his king-even hunt down the pirates plaguing the Jenodan Isles. But he never counted on the seductive powers of the pirate's captain-beautiful, tempestuous, and impossible to resist.
352 pages, Paperback
First published November 11, 2010
37 people are currently reading
629 people want to read
About the author
Jean Johnson
51 books820 followersBerkley/Jove Authors Bio
Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name.
(1)romance author, science fiction author
Jean Johnson currently lives in the Pacific Northwest, has played in the SCA for 25 years, sings a lot, and argues with her cat about territorial rights to her office chair. She loves hearing from her readers, and has a distinct sense of humor. Right now she's living in a home with zone heating & decent plumbing, but hopes to some day put turrets and ramparts on it so that it looks like a castle.
Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name.
(1)romance author, science fiction author
Jean Johnson currently lives in the Pacific Northwest, has played in the SCA for 25 years, sings a lot, and argues with her cat about territorial rights to her office chair. She loves hearing from her readers, and has a distinct sense of humor. Right now she's living in a home with zone heating & decent plumbing, but hopes to some day put turrets and ramparts on it so that it looks like a castle.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
January 2, 2011
Finding Destiny by Jean Johnson
Paranormal Romance –Jan 4th, 2011
4 stars
Finding Destiny is a collection of 4 short novellas set in a magical world that’s made up of various nations which focus on stories set in: Sundara (the desert), Guildara (the hi-tech), Aurul (the most prosperous), and Jenodan Isles (the seafaring).
Sundara - In the first novel, a Mandarite nobleman turned slave, Eduor has arrived at Sundara, ready to begin a new life as freed man. When he meets the graceful priestess/dyara, Chanson, Eduor realizes that he will do anything to stay free to woo her.
Guildara - Recently freed from their oppressors and fake god, the Guildarans are rebuilding their war-torn country, relying heavily on technology and their engineers’ skills. To further strengthen the fragile truce between Aurul and Guildara, the King of Aurul has sent a trusted Knight and diplomat, Sir Zeilas to aid the Guildarans. After meeting the intelligent and beautiful leader of the Guildarans, Sir Zeilas is more than smitten...
Aurul - The Guildaran mage, Gabria, goes westward to Aurul to forge peace with the King of Aurul. Unbeknownst to her, she’s not arriving as a diplomat but as the prophesied bride of the King. With the fate of two nations hanging on balance, can she learn to love the King?
Jenodan Isles - the merchant ships of Aurul are being harassed by the pirates from the Jenodan Isles. The Mage-Captain Ellet is send by the King to investigate the matter. When he clashes with the sexy and brave Pirate’s Captain, Mita, he realizes that his heart may be in danger as well...
In the first novella, although Sundara is a fascinating place, the two main characters’ story is not that exciting. The lack of a meatier conflict is a disappointment, which causes the ending to be a bit flat.
In the 2nd novella, I really liked the romance between the knight and the Guildarans’ leader. I enjoyed the fact that there’s a villain and obstacles to overcome. Overall, this is my favorite story.
The 3rd novella is pure romance. The love story between the King and Gabria flows very smoothly and naturally.
In the last story, the story between Mita and Ellet is passionate and provides a contrast to the slower paced romance between the King and his bride.
Jean Johnson has a gift for world-building. I simply love each countries’ distinctive culture and ‘personality.’ My only complaint is that I wish she had a written a full-length book on each story instead of a short novella, I would have liked to spend more time with each of her characters. This world is too rich and exciting to be condensed into 4 short novellas. More please!
Reviewed by Pauline from Bookaholics Romance Club
Paranormal Romance –Jan 4th, 2011
4 stars
Finding Destiny is a collection of 4 short novellas set in a magical world that’s made up of various nations which focus on stories set in: Sundara (the desert), Guildara (the hi-tech), Aurul (the most prosperous), and Jenodan Isles (the seafaring).
Sundara - In the first novel, a Mandarite nobleman turned slave, Eduor has arrived at Sundara, ready to begin a new life as freed man. When he meets the graceful priestess/dyara, Chanson, Eduor realizes that he will do anything to stay free to woo her.
Guildara - Recently freed from their oppressors and fake god, the Guildarans are rebuilding their war-torn country, relying heavily on technology and their engineers’ skills. To further strengthen the fragile truce between Aurul and Guildara, the King of Aurul has sent a trusted Knight and diplomat, Sir Zeilas to aid the Guildarans. After meeting the intelligent and beautiful leader of the Guildarans, Sir Zeilas is more than smitten...
Aurul - The Guildaran mage, Gabria, goes westward to Aurul to forge peace with the King of Aurul. Unbeknownst to her, she’s not arriving as a diplomat but as the prophesied bride of the King. With the fate of two nations hanging on balance, can she learn to love the King?
Jenodan Isles - the merchant ships of Aurul are being harassed by the pirates from the Jenodan Isles. The Mage-Captain Ellet is send by the King to investigate the matter. When he clashes with the sexy and brave Pirate’s Captain, Mita, he realizes that his heart may be in danger as well...
In the first novella, although Sundara is a fascinating place, the two main characters’ story is not that exciting. The lack of a meatier conflict is a disappointment, which causes the ending to be a bit flat.
In the 2nd novella, I really liked the romance between the knight and the Guildarans’ leader. I enjoyed the fact that there’s a villain and obstacles to overcome. Overall, this is my favorite story.
The 3rd novella is pure romance. The love story between the King and Gabria flows very smoothly and naturally.
In the last story, the story between Mita and Ellet is passionate and provides a contrast to the slower paced romance between the King and his bride.
Jean Johnson has a gift for world-building. I simply love each countries’ distinctive culture and ‘personality.’ My only complaint is that I wish she had a written a full-length book on each story instead of a short novella, I would have liked to spend more time with each of her characters. This world is too rich and exciting to be condensed into 4 short novellas. More please!
Reviewed by Pauline from Bookaholics Romance Club
September 25, 2015
This has NOTHING on the rest of the Sons of Destiny. As it is, I resented the first three stories at a point I didn't not read the last one. so, technically it's a DNF but I will rate it anyway, sadly with just the one star.
I devoured Sons of Destiny #1-8 and I loved each and every one of them, so I had really high expectations. Those expectations weren't met. At all.
I thought these novellas to be weird and I was very disappointed.
I devoured Sons of Destiny #1-8 and I loved each and every one of them, so I had really high expectations. Those expectations weren't met. At all.
I thought these novellas to be weird and I was very disappointed.
July 30, 2011
I very much have enjoyed reading the series that originated this anthology so was very excited to hear about this book. I read a good clip about the stories on her website:
It holds four stories, all set in the Sons of Destiny universe, each one a different flavor: village life, steampunk, palace life, and pirates. Each tale leads to the next, with each one set in a new kingdom, so you'll get the chance to explore new corners of their world with familiar faces...starting with the tale of what happened to Eduor, son of the Earl of the Western Marches from my very first novel, THE SWORD.
So even though it is an anthology that takes place all in the same world you get very different stories with the various settings. I was very surprised to be put in a steampunk setting, but it was a nice surprise. I loved how all these stories built upon one another. You would meet the character(s) for each story in the preceding story, that was fun. I liked that they were all connected, if loosely, to one another. A lot of fantasy anthologies will give you four separate stories that just happen to possibly take place on the same world.
The slave…Chanson, a privileged Arbran dyara, discovers an unexpected connection with the excitingly different Eduor, a bracingly sexy war-slave who desires his freedom. But what binds them together could also destroy them.
The first story was "The Slave" and it took place in a village. Eduor is a newly freed slave who finds himself in a small village trying to make a place for himself. He takes over the farm of a man who has gone off to fight a battle an in doing so has left his farm to be unproductive. Now their law states that if a man can make himself productive on land that remains unclaimed for a year, they can keep that land. So Eduor goes to work. One of the village leaders is a woman named Chanson, she is a weather witch for the village and her position is very highly regarded. As he shows his work ethic and integrity it draws her in and they fall in love.
Sweet story, I enjoyed it, though honestly when I started it I did not recognize Eduor as a character from the previous book though his name was slightly familiar. I realized later that he was mentioned in The Sword. It did take me a little bit to get into this story, not exactly sure why so I have to give this one a 3.75.
The knight…The Arbran diplomat Sir Zeilas must turn the Guildaran people—with their strange machines and weaponry—from former enemies into allies. But in the case of their intriguingly beautiful leader, perhaps something more intimate is in order.
The second story was "The Knight". This story's main character was one of the knights escorting Eduor before and after he was newly freed from slavery. Zeilas is told to go be an envoy to the new formed country of Guildara. This is our steampunkish story. Guildara is a country that is making it reputation on it mechanical inventions. With their previous tyranny, they have lived the unavailability of magic, because the previous king either killed or brainwashed them. Zeilas's country is vast and powerful but loves the new weapons and such coming out of this little area. Then Zeilas meets that brains and beauty that is the leadership of this fascinating land, Marta.
I liked the conflict in this one, there was an actual battle. I enjoyed the scenery and the storyline. I think my only issue was a superficial one and that was her name. I just have a personal issue with that name so it affected my like the story. But will still give this one a 4.25.
The mage…Gabria never expected to become a Guildaran envoy to Aurul, or the subject of their seer king’s prophecies. But the most stunning surprise was what waited for her in His Majesty’s winter palace, and why.
The third story was 'The Mage". Marta's good friend and part of the newly formed mage guild is requested to come to Zeilas's
The third story was 'The Mage". Marta's good friend and part of the newly formed mage guild, Gabria, is requested to come to Zeilas's country. She assumes as an ambassador. But their king is the Seer King who is periodically taken over by their god and is given visions and prophesies and such and He has foreseen that she will be the Seer King’s wife. She finds this out after she gets there and they are preparing her for her wedding. She handles it very well, better than I would have. She is very conscious of not causing a scene and not wanting to make a major faux pax but wanting more information before she is married off.
This was a very well constructed story. I think it was my favorite of this anthology. It is basically an arranged marriage and the two people are trying to learn to get along and learn each other as they are actually falling in love. It does not happen over the course of a week which would have drove me crazy, it took time and they grew together. Loved watching that, and it was so well done to be able to do that in a short story. I give this story a 4.5.
The pirate…Captain Ellett would do anything for his king. Even hunt down the pirates plaguing the Jenodan Isles. But he never counted on the seductive powers of the pirate’s captain—beautiful, tempestuous, and impossible to resist.
The last story was “The Pirate”. This one takes the Seer King’s Royal captain, Ellet, and sends him to investigate a possible pirate off their southern coast. He goes down and discovers that the pirate is a beautiful woman that is mad that his country has been stealing from hers. He knows this is not true so knows there he has a lot more to learn about what is going on. They uncover a deeper plot and grow closer as they investigate.
This one was nice, I liked that adventure in it. Pirate stories are almost always fun to read as long as the characters are good, I have seen many TSTL heroines in pirate books. In this one she was the pirate and she was a smart one at that. I enjoyed the storyline in this novella and was anxious to see how it worked out. I give this one an 4.25.
The anthology was a nice read all around. If you have never read any of the other books in this world you are not really missing any previous storyline, except maybe Eduor’s backstory, but I did not remember it when I read it and still relatively enjoyed it.
I give it a 4.25 overall.
This review was originally posted on Book Binge by Kris.
It holds four stories, all set in the Sons of Destiny universe, each one a different flavor: village life, steampunk, palace life, and pirates. Each tale leads to the next, with each one set in a new kingdom, so you'll get the chance to explore new corners of their world with familiar faces...starting with the tale of what happened to Eduor, son of the Earl of the Western Marches from my very first novel, THE SWORD.
So even though it is an anthology that takes place all in the same world you get very different stories with the various settings. I was very surprised to be put in a steampunk setting, but it was a nice surprise. I loved how all these stories built upon one another. You would meet the character(s) for each story in the preceding story, that was fun. I liked that they were all connected, if loosely, to one another. A lot of fantasy anthologies will give you four separate stories that just happen to possibly take place on the same world.
The slave…Chanson, a privileged Arbran dyara, discovers an unexpected connection with the excitingly different Eduor, a bracingly sexy war-slave who desires his freedom. But what binds them together could also destroy them.
The first story was "The Slave" and it took place in a village. Eduor is a newly freed slave who finds himself in a small village trying to make a place for himself. He takes over the farm of a man who has gone off to fight a battle an in doing so has left his farm to be unproductive. Now their law states that if a man can make himself productive on land that remains unclaimed for a year, they can keep that land. So Eduor goes to work. One of the village leaders is a woman named Chanson, she is a weather witch for the village and her position is very highly regarded. As he shows his work ethic and integrity it draws her in and they fall in love.
Sweet story, I enjoyed it, though honestly when I started it I did not recognize Eduor as a character from the previous book though his name was slightly familiar. I realized later that he was mentioned in The Sword. It did take me a little bit to get into this story, not exactly sure why so I have to give this one a 3.75.
The knight…The Arbran diplomat Sir Zeilas must turn the Guildaran people—with their strange machines and weaponry—from former enemies into allies. But in the case of their intriguingly beautiful leader, perhaps something more intimate is in order.
The second story was "The Knight". This story's main character was one of the knights escorting Eduor before and after he was newly freed from slavery. Zeilas is told to go be an envoy to the new formed country of Guildara. This is our steampunkish story. Guildara is a country that is making it reputation on it mechanical inventions. With their previous tyranny, they have lived the unavailability of magic, because the previous king either killed or brainwashed them. Zeilas's country is vast and powerful but loves the new weapons and such coming out of this little area. Then Zeilas meets that brains and beauty that is the leadership of this fascinating land, Marta.
I liked the conflict in this one, there was an actual battle. I enjoyed the scenery and the storyline. I think my only issue was a superficial one and that was her name. I just have a personal issue with that name so it affected my like the story. But will still give this one a 4.25.
The mage…Gabria never expected to become a Guildaran envoy to Aurul, or the subject of their seer king’s prophecies. But the most stunning surprise was what waited for her in His Majesty’s winter palace, and why.
The third story was 'The Mage". Marta's good friend and part of the newly formed mage guild is requested to come to Zeilas's
The third story was 'The Mage". Marta's good friend and part of the newly formed mage guild, Gabria, is requested to come to Zeilas's country. She assumes as an ambassador. But their king is the Seer King who is periodically taken over by their god and is given visions and prophesies and such and He has foreseen that she will be the Seer King’s wife. She finds this out after she gets there and they are preparing her for her wedding. She handles it very well, better than I would have. She is very conscious of not causing a scene and not wanting to make a major faux pax but wanting more information before she is married off.
This was a very well constructed story. I think it was my favorite of this anthology. It is basically an arranged marriage and the two people are trying to learn to get along and learn each other as they are actually falling in love. It does not happen over the course of a week which would have drove me crazy, it took time and they grew together. Loved watching that, and it was so well done to be able to do that in a short story. I give this story a 4.5.
The pirate…Captain Ellett would do anything for his king. Even hunt down the pirates plaguing the Jenodan Isles. But he never counted on the seductive powers of the pirate’s captain—beautiful, tempestuous, and impossible to resist.
The last story was “The Pirate”. This one takes the Seer King’s Royal captain, Ellet, and sends him to investigate a possible pirate off their southern coast. He goes down and discovers that the pirate is a beautiful woman that is mad that his country has been stealing from hers. He knows this is not true so knows there he has a lot more to learn about what is going on. They uncover a deeper plot and grow closer as they investigate.
This one was nice, I liked that adventure in it. Pirate stories are almost always fun to read as long as the characters are good, I have seen many TSTL heroines in pirate books. In this one she was the pirate and she was a smart one at that. I enjoyed the storyline in this novella and was anxious to see how it worked out. I give this one an 4.25.
The anthology was a nice read all around. If you have never read any of the other books in this world you are not really missing any previous storyline, except maybe Eduor’s backstory, but I did not remember it when I read it and still relatively enjoyed it.
I give it a 4.25 overall.
This review was originally posted on Book Binge by Kris.
March 21, 2011
I don't know that I would call this book 9 of the sons of destiny as it doesn't take place on Nightfall island and Nightfall is only mentioned in passing, but the stories were wonderful as always. While I find Jean a little long winded in the discriptive department. (I am more interested in the characters than the decor) I skim those parts and consentrate on the stories. i LOVED HOW THE BOOK PROGRESSED WITH ONE CHARACTER FROM EACH STORY MOVING FORWARD TO HAVE THEIR OWN STORY. Y ONLY COMPLAINT IS i WISH THERE WAS MORE OF THE PREVIOIS CHARACTERS INTERACTING IN THE FOLLOWING STORIES, SO YOU KNEW WHAT WAS HAPPENING IN THEIR LIVES AT THE TIME.
August 19, 2010
oh godd i am going to be picking this up i cannot get wnough of wolfers body and kelly bossyness heyy hope gives it all the teist with her seer powers and i love her gosh i mean this id going to be great
January 28, 2011
A group of four related stories - this one is set in the time soon after the Convocation of the Gods in the Brothers books. These stories are more about love and romance than conflict.
And ignore the cover, it's striking but has no bearing on the story.
And ignore the cover, it's striking but has no bearing on the story.
May 19, 2012
Collection of short stories all based around the same world as the sons of destinies
The main character from each book is mentioned in the previous so you see a chain of events with new people and places. Each one was compelling and thoroughly enjoyable
The main character from each book is mentioned in the previous so you see a chain of events with new people and places. Each one was compelling and thoroughly enjoyable
January 23, 2016
surprisingly good as I have never been a fan of short stories as just about the time you get to know a character the story ends. This, on the other hand is actually four interwoven stories. Plus being novellas you can really get invested with the characters.
February 4, 2011
I loved this collection of stories from the world of the "Sons of Destiny" series.
May 13, 2022
As a fan of the Sons of Destiny romantic fantasy, I just had to read this book which contains 4 semi related novellas set in the same universe. To make this review more fun, I've decided to look for a romance book cover that sort of explains the story so you can judge a book novella by it's cover.
The Slave - 2½⭐
Chanson, a privileged Arbran dyara who can summon winds that bring rain, is powerfully attracted to their town's new resident farmer, Eduor, a sexy, newly freed war-slave. Trigger warnings as Eduor was also , so there's a good amount of smut as Eduor when the 2 eventually give in to their needs, especially since Eduor has an extra long, extra gifted tongue.
The Knight - 3⭐
Arbran diplomat Sir Zeilas' job is to convert the newly independent Guildaran people from former enemies into allies, an assignment complicated when he starts to fall for their capable, newly elected leader. Was lacking in the "emotional connection" department, but had lots of action and it did give us a nice segue to the next story.
The Mage - 3½⭐
Gabria never expected to become a Guildaran envoy to Aurul. But the most stunning surprise was what waited for her in His Majesty's winter palace, because Aurul runs by prophecy and this time the God of the seer king has used it in an interesting way.
Really liked this one, it at least gave the couple "time" to get to know one another before proceeding to more interesting explorations.
The Pirate - 4⭐
The Seer King has sent mage guard leader Captain Ellett to capture pirates, a task complicated when he finds the Pirate Queen is also a gifted mage. A hammock incident and possible concussion lead to one of the best uses of the "One Bed" trope. Let's just say the swashbuckling and sex on the seas was my favorite of the 4 novellas in this collection.
The Slave - 2½⭐
Chanson, a privileged Arbran dyara who can summon winds that bring rain, is powerfully attracted to their town's new resident farmer, Eduor, a sexy, newly freed war-slave. Trigger warnings as Eduor was also , so there's a good amount of smut as Eduor when the 2 eventually give in to their needs, especially since Eduor has an extra long, extra gifted tongue.
The Knight - 3⭐
Arbran diplomat Sir Zeilas' job is to convert the newly independent Guildaran people from former enemies into allies, an assignment complicated when he starts to fall for their capable, newly elected leader. Was lacking in the "emotional connection" department, but had lots of action and it did give us a nice segue to the next story.
The Mage - 3½⭐
Gabria never expected to become a Guildaran envoy to Aurul. But the most stunning surprise was what waited for her in His Majesty's winter palace, because Aurul runs by prophecy and this time the God of the seer king has used it in an interesting way.
Really liked this one, it at least gave the couple "time" to get to know one another before proceeding to more interesting explorations.
The Pirate - 4⭐
The Seer King has sent mage guard leader Captain Ellett to capture pirates, a task complicated when he finds the Pirate Queen is also a gifted mage. A hammock incident and possible concussion lead to one of the best uses of the "One Bed" trope. Let's just say the swashbuckling and sex on the seas was my favorite of the 4 novellas in this collection.
November 13, 2011
4 stories of the lands populated by the Sons of Destiny - the 4 sets of twins.
The first is in the country of Sundara, a desert land... Eduor was a noble of Mandara, where men ruled and women were slaves. (they never explained daughters, hmmmm ). The women servants greeted the men on their knees, prepared to suck their penises - at their majority, they took concubines, who had no choice in the mattter. Eduor was well educated, knew many languages, and he did not abuse, and found pleasure in the women's pleasure, but he did not question the order of things. And Eduor's family were sent to fight in the war against Natallia, where women ruled and men were slaves. Eduor was captured, forced into slavery. His first master beat the slaves. Then he was sold to an older woman, a merchant, for his language skills. She did not beat him, but withheld food and water if he did not use his tongue (which is very long) to pleasure her and her neice. On a merchant caravan trip through Sundara, his master dies, and he is free (the law of the land where it happened.
An Arbron knight, Sir Zeilas, assists him... taking him to the nearest town, buying him a set of clothes, teaching him to plow. at Oba's Well, Eduor meets the dyara Chanson. Her only magic is over the water, the rain, channeling it into cisterns. Eduor takes over the farm of one of the men who left to defend another village, and uses his learning to teach the young and to write letters for the illiterate.
and Eduor and Chanson get close - when injured, and in the bath, Eduor tells her of his youth and his hated years as a sex slave, and the actions he could not tolerate (her kneeling before him, being told what to do). And as they get closer, she is mindful of him, and makes sure to ask, to make sure that he wants the touches she gives, and to communicate what she wants but to accept no. And they fall in love, and he finds he wants to pleasure her with his tongue, that it is beautiful with her.
Then we follow Sir Zeilas to Guildara, in the northern country - mountains, cold, machines/technology. Guildara is a new country, formed at the fall of Mekhana with its false gods and tortures, supression of magic and freedoms. They are based on guilds, free enterprise, voting, and a new deity. they only want peace, are seeking treaties with their neighbors, and preparing a defense against a section north bent on conquoring them. Marta is Consul-in-Chief, voted in by the guilds, sanctioned by their goddess Guildra, for a five year term. They quickly agree that duty takes first place, but that they would find time to get to know eachother personally... and zeilas finds pleasure in bringing forth her smiles and her laughter, something she has little of otherwise
In the spring, the north attacks - they are prepared with their war machines (interesting crosses of our tanks, cannons, horses with twists), and with magic, and with Sir Zeilas... but when Sir Zeilas falls under one of the north's war machines, Marta thinks he is dead... and then through a portal come 30 knights from Aurul, who turn the tide and help capture the north leader. Aurul has a prophecy which calls for marta's aide., Gabria, to go to them as an emissary, and hence why they have sent the knights in their time of need.
And Zeilas' horse protected him, and they lift the machine with magic... and Zeilas and Marta announce a marriage. Their first night together is enhanced with a crankman - essentially a windup, metal vibrator. Cute.
Then we follow Gabria to Aurul, to Seer King Devin. As Seer, their god Ruul inhabits his body (his eyes turn gold) to make prophecy, to bless individuals, to hear cases, to run the government. Ruul has chosen Gabria to be Devin's mate, and the 'vessel' of the next seer king. Gabria takes all in stride, knowing that her people need this alliance, but she is fearful of Ruul, fear based on their false god, who took the life of her father and had her family living in hiding and in fear for many years. Gabria and Devin have a week to themselves - 3 days to get to know one another, 3 days of sex, and 1 day of celebration. And Ruul chose well in her - they get along, her point of view is good for his role, and there is attraction. She asserts herself as needed, and insists on her way in the privacy of their quarters, more compliant in the 'public' eye. She is a virgin, though she well used her crankman, remembering friends and maids telling how often men want sex, and thinking she did 4 times a week, and men wanted more? Devin is a wonderful lover, and hopeful that one day she will want to have sex with him when Ruul is there... which she does at after 4 months, when she feels love for Devin (and vice versa), is pregnant, and no longer fearful of Ruul. hmmmm
and the Aurulian Captain of the Guard, Ellett, is sent by Ruul to use a gentle touch to stop the pirates of the Jenodan Isles. Their raids on Aurulian merchants has increased. He will find his destiny on the Pirate's Ride. Mita is the pirate captain and mage. She pits herself against Ellett, and when in mage combat, of power against power, he distracts and wins her with a light kiss. Trust begins, they bed one another, and fall in love. She is strong in body, magic and mind, and very attractive to Ellet. And as they talk, they determine that a con man is on their island, representing himself to be of Auru and imposing taxes and conflict there. the con man is of a 3rd country, and together they bring to light his lies, and bring peace. And then Mita is made emmisary to the Auru, and she ane Ellett can marry.
The first is in the country of Sundara, a desert land... Eduor was a noble of Mandara, where men ruled and women were slaves. (they never explained daughters, hmmmm ). The women servants greeted the men on their knees, prepared to suck their penises - at their majority, they took concubines, who had no choice in the mattter. Eduor was well educated, knew many languages, and he did not abuse, and found pleasure in the women's pleasure, but he did not question the order of things. And Eduor's family were sent to fight in the war against Natallia, where women ruled and men were slaves. Eduor was captured, forced into slavery. His first master beat the slaves. Then he was sold to an older woman, a merchant, for his language skills. She did not beat him, but withheld food and water if he did not use his tongue (which is very long) to pleasure her and her neice. On a merchant caravan trip through Sundara, his master dies, and he is free (the law of the land where it happened.
An Arbron knight, Sir Zeilas, assists him... taking him to the nearest town, buying him a set of clothes, teaching him to plow. at Oba's Well, Eduor meets the dyara Chanson. Her only magic is over the water, the rain, channeling it into cisterns. Eduor takes over the farm of one of the men who left to defend another village, and uses his learning to teach the young and to write letters for the illiterate.
and Eduor and Chanson get close - when injured, and in the bath, Eduor tells her of his youth and his hated years as a sex slave, and the actions he could not tolerate (her kneeling before him, being told what to do). And as they get closer, she is mindful of him, and makes sure to ask, to make sure that he wants the touches she gives, and to communicate what she wants but to accept no. And they fall in love, and he finds he wants to pleasure her with his tongue, that it is beautiful with her.
Then we follow Sir Zeilas to Guildara, in the northern country - mountains, cold, machines/technology. Guildara is a new country, formed at the fall of Mekhana with its false gods and tortures, supression of magic and freedoms. They are based on guilds, free enterprise, voting, and a new deity. they only want peace, are seeking treaties with their neighbors, and preparing a defense against a section north bent on conquoring them. Marta is Consul-in-Chief, voted in by the guilds, sanctioned by their goddess Guildra, for a five year term. They quickly agree that duty takes first place, but that they would find time to get to know eachother personally... and zeilas finds pleasure in bringing forth her smiles and her laughter, something she has little of otherwise
In the spring, the north attacks - they are prepared with their war machines (interesting crosses of our tanks, cannons, horses with twists), and with magic, and with Sir Zeilas... but when Sir Zeilas falls under one of the north's war machines, Marta thinks he is dead... and then through a portal come 30 knights from Aurul, who turn the tide and help capture the north leader. Aurul has a prophecy which calls for marta's aide., Gabria, to go to them as an emissary, and hence why they have sent the knights in their time of need.
And Zeilas' horse protected him, and they lift the machine with magic... and Zeilas and Marta announce a marriage. Their first night together is enhanced with a crankman - essentially a windup, metal vibrator. Cute.
Then we follow Gabria to Aurul, to Seer King Devin. As Seer, their god Ruul inhabits his body (his eyes turn gold) to make prophecy, to bless individuals, to hear cases, to run the government. Ruul has chosen Gabria to be Devin's mate, and the 'vessel' of the next seer king. Gabria takes all in stride, knowing that her people need this alliance, but she is fearful of Ruul, fear based on their false god, who took the life of her father and had her family living in hiding and in fear for many years. Gabria and Devin have a week to themselves - 3 days to get to know one another, 3 days of sex, and 1 day of celebration. And Ruul chose well in her - they get along, her point of view is good for his role, and there is attraction. She asserts herself as needed, and insists on her way in the privacy of their quarters, more compliant in the 'public' eye. She is a virgin, though she well used her crankman, remembering friends and maids telling how often men want sex, and thinking she did 4 times a week, and men wanted more? Devin is a wonderful lover, and hopeful that one day she will want to have sex with him when Ruul is there... which she does at after 4 months, when she feels love for Devin (and vice versa), is pregnant, and no longer fearful of Ruul. hmmmm
and the Aurulian Captain of the Guard, Ellett, is sent by Ruul to use a gentle touch to stop the pirates of the Jenodan Isles. Their raids on Aurulian merchants has increased. He will find his destiny on the Pirate's Ride. Mita is the pirate captain and mage. She pits herself against Ellett, and when in mage combat, of power against power, he distracts and wins her with a light kiss. Trust begins, they bed one another, and fall in love. She is strong in body, magic and mind, and very attractive to Ellet. And as they talk, they determine that a con man is on their island, representing himself to be of Auru and imposing taxes and conflict there. the con man is of a 3rd country, and together they bring to light his lies, and bring peace. And then Mita is made emmisary to the Auru, and she ane Ellett can marry.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 8, 2022
Following The Sons of Destiny
SOD9
Buy this book, but read The Sword, The Wolf, The Song, The Master, The Cat, The Storm, The Flame and The Mage, first!
The stories in this book fall between The Mage (SOD8) and The Tower (Guardians of Destiny1). While complete in their own right, they are also linked internally; flowing one into the next.
They are also romantic and not military science fiction like the Ia series (A Solider’s Duty). Which are strong in their purpose and just as fantastic.
Jean writes stories that build upon each other in a series; so the world gets richer and deeper as it expands. They are just a lot of fun!
SOD9
Buy this book, but read The Sword, The Wolf, The Song, The Master, The Cat, The Storm, The Flame and The Mage, first!
The stories in this book fall between The Mage (SOD8) and The Tower (Guardians of Destiny1). While complete in their own right, they are also linked internally; flowing one into the next.
They are also romantic and not military science fiction like the Ia series (A Solider’s Duty). Which are strong in their purpose and just as fantastic.
Jean writes stories that build upon each other in a series; so the world gets richer and deeper as it expands. They are just a lot of fun!
Read
July 2, 2020I read this back in 2016 right after finishing the regular series, but after re-reading the series in 2020 I did a stupid thing. Intending to reread this book I put it as currently reading, then I changed my mind and went to take it off my currently reading list and accidentally removed it from ALL my lists including my previous review :(.
Soo, since I don't' remember the previous review all I can say is that it is 4 stories from the World of Destiny, but not about the 8 brothers. And while I liked it, it wasn't the continuance of their lives like I wanted.
Soo, since I don't' remember the previous review all I can say is that it is 4 stories from the World of Destiny, but not about the 8 brothers. And while I liked it, it wasn't the continuance of their lives like I wanted.
April 10, 2022
Loved all the stories and especially liked the occasional reference to Nightfall. Although it would be nice to have a true sequel to the Sons of Destiny series.
July 26, 2011
posted over at alternative read
I have not read the Sons of Destiny series but from what I can figure out that is not necessary and neither are they mentioned here. Those 8 books about 8 brothers take place on an Island only briefly mentioned on this book since they make chocolate there. Instead this anthology is about 4 kingdoms and 4 couples falling in love.
The Slave is about Eduor who used to be a nobleman in a country were women were only there to please men. But he ended up a sex slave in another country and is now damaged. But in the desert kingdom of Sundara he starts a new life as a farmer and falls in love. This story was my favorite as he had his problems with the past and she was so kind and sweet. It is a nice love story about how love can heal. Though I must mention that when I read her name, Chanson, I thought she was a guy.
The Knight was my least favorite story. I do not know what made it so, perhaps it was that the country was so high-tech with motor horses and electric dildos. In it we meet Sir Zeilas who we already met in Eduor’s story. Zeilas is a diplomat who is sent to the new country of Guildara to build a relationship. There he falls for their leader. But I just felt something was missing, perhaps chemistry, perhaps it was the technology like I said. Because of they were that advanced then it should spread and nothing would be left of this old world.
The Mage is about Gabria, who we again met in the previous story since she is sent to another kingdom as an envoy. This story was better again but I do wish I could tell you about the freakiness of her love story but that would spoil it. Personally I thought one thing was rather gross, but it would not have been gross if it hadn’t happened before. Oh yes I am cryptic but you will see. Still it was a nice story about getting to know someone and making a new life.
The Pirate is about Captain Ellet who is sent to the Jenodan Isles to take care of a pirate problem but falls for the pirate instead. Nothing wrong with a bit of pirate loving and there is also another story in it since they are trying to figure out what is wrong on Jenodan. Someone is causing trouble.
All in all a nice enough book about an interesting world. I would certainly like to read about Sundara and Aurul again. And like always, some stories better than other ones.
I have not read the Sons of Destiny series but from what I can figure out that is not necessary and neither are they mentioned here. Those 8 books about 8 brothers take place on an Island only briefly mentioned on this book since they make chocolate there. Instead this anthology is about 4 kingdoms and 4 couples falling in love.
The Slave is about Eduor who used to be a nobleman in a country were women were only there to please men. But he ended up a sex slave in another country and is now damaged. But in the desert kingdom of Sundara he starts a new life as a farmer and falls in love. This story was my favorite as he had his problems with the past and she was so kind and sweet. It is a nice love story about how love can heal. Though I must mention that when I read her name, Chanson, I thought she was a guy.
The Knight was my least favorite story. I do not know what made it so, perhaps it was that the country was so high-tech with motor horses and electric dildos. In it we meet Sir Zeilas who we already met in Eduor’s story. Zeilas is a diplomat who is sent to the new country of Guildara to build a relationship. There he falls for their leader. But I just felt something was missing, perhaps chemistry, perhaps it was the technology like I said. Because of they were that advanced then it should spread and nothing would be left of this old world.
The Mage is about Gabria, who we again met in the previous story since she is sent to another kingdom as an envoy. This story was better again but I do wish I could tell you about the freakiness of her love story but that would spoil it. Personally I thought one thing was rather gross, but it would not have been gross if it hadn’t happened before. Oh yes I am cryptic but you will see. Still it was a nice story about getting to know someone and making a new life.
The Pirate is about Captain Ellet who is sent to the Jenodan Isles to take care of a pirate problem but falls for the pirate instead. Nothing wrong with a bit of pirate loving and there is also another story in it since they are trying to figure out what is wrong on Jenodan. Someone is causing trouble.
All in all a nice enough book about an interesting world. I would certainly like to read about Sundara and Aurul again. And like always, some stories better than other ones.
June 2, 2013
Finding Destiny is set in the same worlds as Jean Johnson's best-selling series, the Sons of Destniy. However, whereas in that series, each book was about one of the sons, in Finding Destiny, is a novella compiled of four short stories set in different kingdoms of the same universe.
In the kingdom of Sundara, Eduar's owner suddenly dies of natural causes, thus freeing him. But many believe Eduar needs to go back to Mandare, where he can return to being a slave. The beatings were one thing, but his elderly mistress tormented him in other ways. When he meets the beautiful Arban dara, Chanson, Eduara is more determined than ever to remain free.
In the kingdom of Guildara, Sir Zeilas is confused why the kingdom seems to be preparing for war when they profess to have peaceful intentions. But they are in actuality, rebuilding their war-torn country and relying on engineers and technology. He was sent to the kingdom from Aurul as a diplomat to help strengthen the bond between the two kingdoms. But when he meets the beautiful leader of the Guildaraians, Marta, Sir Zeilas would give up his ambassadorship to court her.
In the kingdom of Aurul, Gabria arrives to help form an alliance between her kingdom of Guildara and Aurul. She is confused as to why she is treated as royalty, until she learns that it has been prophecized that she will marry the King. King Devin talks to Gabria in her mind and tries to calm her into marrying him, but will she be able to love him?
In the Jenodan Isles, Ellett is sent by King Devin to find out why the merchant ships are being attacked. Ellett, two months on the ship, is in dire need of female companionship. So when he runs into the Pirate Captain Mita, who is very luscious looking, Ellett sets his mark. But will Mita return the desire?
Finding Destiny is a trip into other worlds with extraordinary characters, all looking for love. Some are adventuresome, and some are sweet and passionate, but all of the stories have excellent world building and sensual and blazing hot love scenes. Whether you enjoy a tale of Royalty or on the high seas, in Finding Destiny, you are sure to find enjoyment.
In the kingdom of Sundara, Eduar's owner suddenly dies of natural causes, thus freeing him. But many believe Eduar needs to go back to Mandare, where he can return to being a slave. The beatings were one thing, but his elderly mistress tormented him in other ways. When he meets the beautiful Arban dara, Chanson, Eduara is more determined than ever to remain free.
In the kingdom of Guildara, Sir Zeilas is confused why the kingdom seems to be preparing for war when they profess to have peaceful intentions. But they are in actuality, rebuilding their war-torn country and relying on engineers and technology. He was sent to the kingdom from Aurul as a diplomat to help strengthen the bond between the two kingdoms. But when he meets the beautiful leader of the Guildaraians, Marta, Sir Zeilas would give up his ambassadorship to court her.
In the kingdom of Aurul, Gabria arrives to help form an alliance between her kingdom of Guildara and Aurul. She is confused as to why she is treated as royalty, until she learns that it has been prophecized that she will marry the King. King Devin talks to Gabria in her mind and tries to calm her into marrying him, but will she be able to love him?
In the Jenodan Isles, Ellett is sent by King Devin to find out why the merchant ships are being attacked. Ellett, two months on the ship, is in dire need of female companionship. So when he runs into the Pirate Captain Mita, who is very luscious looking, Ellett sets his mark. But will Mita return the desire?
Finding Destiny is a trip into other worlds with extraordinary characters, all looking for love. Some are adventuresome, and some are sweet and passionate, but all of the stories have excellent world building and sensual and blazing hot love scenes. Whether you enjoy a tale of Royalty or on the high seas, in Finding Destiny, you are sure to find enjoyment.
August 24, 2011
My mind loves threads. Threads that tie one thing to another for a whole picture. Ms. Johnson did a great job with this anthology like book. I enjoyed the Sons of Destiny series. This 9th one was a great return.
The Slave
This one started out slow for me. Still, I enjoyed it because I like the stories where a person works hard and is rewarded for his efforts. This was a sweet story which introduced my favourite character, Sir Zeilas.
The Knight
Sir Zeilas is the sweetest man. I liked everything about him. He's the one I think of when I want a knight in shining armour. This story was so sweet. I like the happily ever after. This story introduced Gabria.
The Mage
Gabria, nothing like an arranged marriage and sacrificing yourself for your country, huh? Good thing the King is hot. Sleeping with a God is not so bad either. I'm thinking it's kind of hot. She's treated like a princess. Sweet! My favourite part of this story, "deflowered". How clever.
Then we meet Captain Ellett. Although to be fair, he showed up in The Knight.
The Pirate
I like Ellett. He's an intelligent and hot guy. He's also a bit powerful which is nice. This one held a bit more intrigue but really, who couldn't guess the outcome? Still, great read.
I recommend this to people who loved the series and want to return to a lighter side of the Sons of Destiny world.
The Slave
This one started out slow for me. Still, I enjoyed it because I like the stories where a person works hard and is rewarded for his efforts. This was a sweet story which introduced my favourite character, Sir Zeilas.
The Knight
Sir Zeilas is the sweetest man. I liked everything about him. He's the one I think of when I want a knight in shining armour. This story was so sweet. I like the happily ever after. This story introduced Gabria.
The Mage
Gabria, nothing like an arranged marriage and sacrificing yourself for your country, huh? Good thing the King is hot. Sleeping with a God is not so bad either. I'm thinking it's kind of hot. She's treated like a princess. Sweet! My favourite part of this story, "deflowered". How clever.
Then we meet Captain Ellett. Although to be fair, he showed up in The Knight.
The Pirate
I like Ellett. He's an intelligent and hot guy. He's also a bit powerful which is nice. This one held a bit more intrigue but really, who couldn't guess the outcome? Still, great read.
I recommend this to people who loved the series and want to return to a lighter side of the Sons of Destiny world.
July 15, 2011
This book is a series of 4 novellas. The first is most notable for the object of desire being an identifiably African woman. Her eager swain is all blonde-haired and blue-eyed with a past of sexual abuse at the hands of women. If you like IR, and I do, and you're a sucker for the damaged- but-needing-the-love-of-a-good-woman-to-to heal type male, as I am, then this gentle romance ith "mildly graphic" sex- is for you. I mean, it's not graphic to me (look at my tags!), but I guess it's a 6 on the graphic scale. It's not literary wall-to-wall, by any means; not a bodice-ripper.
Anyhoo, these are nice, predictable safe romances with a long build-up to show the hero's love and esteem for the female and then culminating in gratifying committment and many, many orgasms where the woman climaxes first- that's how considerate her man is. Of interest was a passage describing making love to a virgin's foot to drive her to orgasm before deflowering. If that's your freak, then you're in luck! ;-D
Don't think I'll be looking for the other books in the series. Just not enough angst for me. But of interest enough to whle away an evening.
Anyhoo, these are nice, predictable safe romances with a long build-up to show the hero's love and esteem for the female and then culminating in gratifying committment and many, many orgasms where the woman climaxes first- that's how considerate her man is. Of interest was a passage describing making love to a virgin's foot to drive her to orgasm before deflowering. If that's your freak, then you're in luck! ;-D
Don't think I'll be looking for the other books in the series. Just not enough angst for me. But of interest enough to whle away an evening.
July 12, 2014
This collection of four novellas is based in the world of Johnson's wonderful Sons of Destiny series, but works well as a stand-alone. It may be read any time after the second book in the series, and the events in this collection do not affect the characters in the series.
I liked that the stories are mostly based on one character's point of view, and that the only insight we are given into the workings of the minds of the other characters is through the dialogue.
There was nothing deep or dramatic about these tales, they are just rollicking good fun. Even the scene depicting battle was not so graphic as to jar the flow of the story line.
Only worth re-reading if one is an addict of the series, as I am.
I suggest starting with Jean Johnson The Sword to truly get into the worldbuilding this collection lacks.
I liked that the stories are mostly based on one character's point of view, and that the only insight we are given into the workings of the minds of the other characters is through the dialogue.
There was nothing deep or dramatic about these tales, they are just rollicking good fun. Even the scene depicting battle was not so graphic as to jar the flow of the story line.
Only worth re-reading if one is an addict of the series, as I am.
I suggest starting with Jean Johnson The Sword to truly get into the worldbuilding this collection lacks.
October 12, 2014
I was disappointed with this book. When I noticed that it was #9 within the Sons of Destiny I was excited to get back to those characters that I had learned to love over the last 8 books. Sadly we saw none of them, and there was only a slight mention of anything Nightfall. What this book encompasses is the same world, with some of the same things in it. I wish it would have said the world of the Son's of Destiny.
This book is made of 4 short stories, where one character from the just finished story starts out the next, so there was a string connecting them just slightly.
The first 2 stories were very blah, while the 3rd very good, the 4th so so. One thing that did have me laughing was the mention of a "crankman" which is this world's version of a vibrator and made for some very funny scenes.
This book is made of 4 short stories, where one character from the just finished story starts out the next, so there was a string connecting them just slightly.
The first 2 stories were very blah, while the 3rd very good, the 4th so so. One thing that did have me laughing was the mention of a "crankman" which is this world's version of a vibrator and made for some very funny scenes.
March 3, 2015
I'm not a fan of anthologies and didn't realize this was one when I picked it up. (This just happens to be one of my "must buy" authors.) This is four connected stories set in the lands of the Sons of Destiny world but without any real connection to the first eight books. I could have done without The Slave story as it was just mediocre but the other three were very good and could have been even better had they been longer.
June 7, 2011
To be honest I only read the first story. I just could not make myself read the other ones. I was bored out of my mind on page 2. If you ask me I am a hero for actually making it to the end of the story.
I do not even remember the character's names ( well I was never good with names), but I do remember that the man has a strange tongue and the woman was a priestess that was a lot of experience in the passionate affairs. And that just about sums it up.
I do not even remember the character's names ( well I was never good with names), but I do remember that the man has a strange tongue and the woman was a priestess that was a lot of experience in the passionate affairs. And that just about sums it up.
March 9, 2013
This was an interesting collection of four novellas set in the world of the Sons of Destiny, but otherwise unrelated to that series.
Each novella had a new couple in a new kingdom with a different feel. One of the cool bits is that (except for the first) a side character from the story moves on to become the main character of the next.
Each novella had a new couple in a new kingdom with a different feel. One of the cool bits is that (except for the first) a side character from the story moves on to become the main character of the next.
October 18, 2014
I liked the first two stories pretty well, and hated the third (arranged marriage where one party was not even aware they were to be married until the ceremony, and then pretty much emotionally blackmailed into it? yuck!). liked the fourth, but as it was set in the culture for the third, not as much as the first two.
February 16, 2016
If I want to rate the individual story it wouldn't be easier but rating the 4 small stories is even more difficult but it provided a closure to all the kingdoms we have read so far. I would have liked to read a book on how the shattered Kingdom was fixed or abt the gender war.
November 21, 2024
I really like this series.
August 21, 2011
3.5 stars needed more in the stories.
February 2, 2012
I've always enjoyed this series. Following a character from one story to the next is a nice touch. My personal favourite was Aurul.
September 4, 2013
I have enjoyed many of Jean Johnson's books but this one was to slow moving for me
November 26, 2014
Okay the first two stories didn't like almost thought about putting it in my trade in bag, but the last two stories redeemed it.
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