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On the Canadian frontier in 1875, nature is a harsh mistress. But the supernatural can really do you in. . .
A Lone Wolf
Nathan Lesperance is used to being different. He's the first Native attorney in Vancouver, and welcome neither with white society nor his sometime tribe. Not to mention the powerful wildness he's always felt inside him, too dangerous to set free. Then he met Astrid Bramfield and saw his like within her piercing eyes. Now, unless she helps him through the harsh terrain and the harsher unknowns of his true abilities, it could very well get him killed. . .
And The Woman Who Left The Pack
Astrid has traveled this path before. Once she was a Blade of the Rose, protecting the world's magic from unscrupulous men, with her husband by her side. But she's loved and lost, and as a world-class frontierswoman, she knows all about survival. Nathan's searing gaze and long, lean muscles mean nothing but trouble. Yet something has ignited a forgotten flame inside a burning need for adventure, for life--and perhaps even for love. . .
Praise for The Blades of the Rose
"Crackles with adventure, a rich sense of place, and terrific characterization." --Mary Jo Putney on Warrior
"The action explodes on page one and the pace never lets up. You're gonna love The Blades of the Rose." --Ann Aguirre, national bestselling author of Hell Fire on Rebel
A Lone Wolf
Nathan Lesperance is used to being different. He's the first Native attorney in Vancouver, and welcome neither with white society nor his sometime tribe. Not to mention the powerful wildness he's always felt inside him, too dangerous to set free. Then he met Astrid Bramfield and saw his like within her piercing eyes. Now, unless she helps him through the harsh terrain and the harsher unknowns of his true abilities, it could very well get him killed. . .
And The Woman Who Left The Pack
Astrid has traveled this path before. Once she was a Blade of the Rose, protecting the world's magic from unscrupulous men, with her husband by her side. But she's loved and lost, and as a world-class frontierswoman, she knows all about survival. Nathan's searing gaze and long, lean muscles mean nothing but trouble. Yet something has ignited a forgotten flame inside a burning need for adventure, for life--and perhaps even for love. . .
Praise for The Blades of the Rose
"Crackles with adventure, a rich sense of place, and terrific characterization." --Mary Jo Putney on Warrior
"The action explodes on page one and the pace never lets up. You're gonna love The Blades of the Rose." --Ann Aguirre, national bestselling author of Hell Fire on Rebel
431 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2010
33 people are currently reading
1094 people want to read
About the author
Zoe Archer
22 books651 followersZoë Archer is a RITA award-nominated romance author whose stories are about smart, capable heroines and the heroes who love them. She is the author of the acclaimed Blades of the Rose series, as well as the Hellraiser, and Nemesis Unlimited series, among others. She also writes Regency-set romances as Eva Leigh. Visit her on the Web at http://www.zoearcherbooks.com/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 130 reviews
February 16, 2011
I had a bit of a hard time getting into this book. It was still interesting, but I was very much aware that I was reading a book instead of being sucked into a story. About the time Nathan and Astrid started to open up to each other was when I started to get into it. I don't know why, but I couldn't seem to connect to their characters. Their past tragedies and their budding connection with each other wasn't resonating with me. I knew about them because I was told about them, not because I was really feeling it.
This book seemed to have a different tone than the previous two. I had it pointed out to me by a friend that there was less humor, and she was right. The tone was more quiet and somber. The characters were falling in love, but they both were rather withdrawn so their connection was quieter.
Other than the obvious factor of Astrid being a member (or prior member) of the Blades of the Rose and Catullus showing up, this one didn't seem strongly tied to the previous books. Perhaps it's because we never met Astrid before, we only heard about her in passing. Whatever it is, I think this one would be able to stand on its own well without having read the previous books.
In the beginning as we were getting Astrid's thoughts about her husband I saw a lot of grief there, of course, but I also noticed some stray thoughts here and there that seemed to subtly be grooming the reader to see the new love interest, Nathan, as a better match than the previous spouse.
See? That was only on page 66 and there were a lot of little comments like that. (Lesperance is Nathan's last name by the way.) Possibly the comments weren't meant that way, but after years of reading romances I am particularly sensitive to the habit authors have of devaluing the previous relationship just enough to make the new guy not have any competition. How can you have a competition with a dead man, you ask? I don't know, I've been wondering that for years.
Another thing that I noticed in this book was that even though we saw a lot more of Catullus than we did in the previous two, we didn't have as many steampunk gadgets as we did in the previous books. It's not a huge negative to me, it's just something I noticed.
Despite liking it less than the previous two books, I still thought it was a fun book. It isn't going to be a favorite of mine, but the action was a lot of fun and Astrid was a strong heroine. I also liked that Nathan's magic opened up an unexpected avenue in the author's world. I didn't think that we'd see any of that in this series, but it was definitely interesting to explore.
After getting to know Catullus a little better here I am even more excited to read his book. Hopefully we'll be able to end the series on a high note.
This book seemed to have a different tone than the previous two. I had it pointed out to me by a friend that there was less humor, and she was right. The tone was more quiet and somber. The characters were falling in love, but they both were rather withdrawn so their connection was quieter.
Other than the obvious factor of Astrid being a member (or prior member) of the Blades of the Rose and Catullus showing up, this one didn't seem strongly tied to the previous books. Perhaps it's because we never met Astrid before, we only heard about her in passing. Whatever it is, I think this one would be able to stand on its own well without having read the previous books.
In the beginning as we were getting Astrid's thoughts about her husband I saw a lot of grief there, of course, but I also noticed some stray thoughts here and there that seemed to subtly be grooming the reader to see the new love interest, Nathan, as a better match than the previous spouse.
Few possessed enough spirit to gain her respect. Even Michael, much as she had loved him, wavered at times. Not Lesperance. He was her equal. In many ways. A frightening prospect.
See? That was only on page 66 and there were a lot of little comments like that. (Lesperance is Nathan's last name by the way.) Possibly the comments weren't meant that way, but after years of reading romances I am particularly sensitive to the habit authors have of devaluing the previous relationship just enough to make the new guy not have any competition. How can you have a competition with a dead man, you ask? I don't know, I've been wondering that for years.
Another thing that I noticed in this book was that even though we saw a lot more of Catullus than we did in the previous two, we didn't have as many steampunk gadgets as we did in the previous books. It's not a huge negative to me, it's just something I noticed.
Despite liking it less than the previous two books, I still thought it was a fun book. It isn't going to be a favorite of mine, but the action was a lot of fun and Astrid was a strong heroine. I also liked that Nathan's magic opened up an unexpected avenue in the author's world. I didn't think that we'd see any of that in this series, but it was definitely interesting to explore.
After getting to know Catullus a little better here I am even more excited to read his book. Hopefully we'll be able to end the series on a high note.
November 4, 2010
Whew! Really good, and such heart pounding adventure! Much more paranormal than the previous books too, and it worked. A lot of twists to the story that I just didn't see coming. And I loved the steamy romance between Nathan and Astrid, and can't wait for Catullus and Gemma's story next.
November 9, 2010
This was yet another fun installment in this series. And I have to tell you, I am chomping at the bit for book 4, Catullus Graves's story. Mmmmm.
Rebel was pretty different in tone and texture than the previous 2 in the series. Firstly, there was significantly less humor. In fact, I can't really think of any at all. Secondly, there was far fewer nifty steampunk inventions. That's particularly odd to me, since Catullus Graves (the inventor) actually plays a major role in this one. And I would be lying to say that I didn't miss it - something about the tech vs magic in this series is really a lot of fun to me.
We have heard bits and pieces about Astrid Bramfield in the previous books. We know that her husband Michael was killed in Africa, we know that they were doing something with the Primal Source, and we know that the Heirs now have this Primal Source. We know, from the end of book 2, that in the wake of her husband's death, Astrid has entirely withdrawn from the world - she fled to the wilds of Canada to live alone. This basically gives you the tone for this book: Astrid is a wounded woman, her life shattered. She considers herself a husk - she is determined NOT to live without Michael. She's not suicidal, but she considers her life over - joy died with Michael.
Nathan is equally wounded. He's a Native American who was raised by white people. He belongs nowhere - he's not accepted in white society, and the tribes consider him more of a white man than one of them. Nathan lives his life as if it is him against the world, and up until now, it has been.
So Rebel is mostly the story of two wounded, lonely people finding each other. I'll admit that, without the humor (like the previous 2 books) breaking up the drama, the Disney-esque love story got a little anvil-to-the-head for me. I get it, y'all are madly, deeply in love. His love saved her; her love saved him. But this thought is repeated a LOT. Like, a LOT. I still loved the book, but just... fair warning.
This book also does a lot of setting up, and in that respect, it feels like a bridging story. We get some light thrown on the overall plot regarding the Primal Source, and the battle lines for endgame feel drawn by the end of the book. In addition, this book really spends a lot of time setting up Catullus's story in book 4. We get to hear how lonely he is, and we meet Gemma Murphy, the heroine of his book. Honestly, between the overall story arc and Catullus, I am dang excited for Stranger.
Rebel was pretty different in tone and texture than the previous 2 in the series. Firstly, there was significantly less humor. In fact, I can't really think of any at all. Secondly, there was far fewer nifty steampunk inventions. That's particularly odd to me, since Catullus Graves (the inventor) actually plays a major role in this one. And I would be lying to say that I didn't miss it - something about the tech vs magic in this series is really a lot of fun to me.
We have heard bits and pieces about Astrid Bramfield in the previous books. We know that her husband Michael was killed in Africa, we know that they were doing something with the Primal Source, and we know that the Heirs now have this Primal Source. We know, from the end of book 2, that in the wake of her husband's death, Astrid has entirely withdrawn from the world - she fled to the wilds of Canada to live alone. This basically gives you the tone for this book: Astrid is a wounded woman, her life shattered. She considers herself a husk - she is determined NOT to live without Michael. She's not suicidal, but she considers her life over - joy died with Michael.
Nathan is equally wounded. He's a Native American who was raised by white people. He belongs nowhere - he's not accepted in white society, and the tribes consider him more of a white man than one of them. Nathan lives his life as if it is him against the world, and up until now, it has been.
So Rebel is mostly the story of two wounded, lonely people finding each other. I'll admit that, without the humor (like the previous 2 books) breaking up the drama, the Disney-esque love story got a little anvil-to-the-head for me. I get it, y'all are madly, deeply in love. His love saved her; her love saved him. But this thought is repeated a LOT. Like, a LOT. I still loved the book, but just... fair warning.
This book also does a lot of setting up, and in that respect, it feels like a bridging story. We get some light thrown on the overall plot regarding the Primal Source, and the battle lines for endgame feel drawn by the end of the book. In addition, this book really spends a lot of time setting up Catullus's story in book 4. We get to hear how lonely he is, and we meet Gemma Murphy, the heroine of his book. Honestly, between the overall story arc and Catullus, I am dang excited for Stranger.
March 27, 2011
The third story in the Blades of the Rose series follows Astrid Bramfield, a former Blade who now lives in the isolated wilderness of Canada after her husbands death at the hands of the Heirs. However, her self imposed solitude is soon interrupted when she encounters Nathan Lesperence the only Native American attorney in America. The Heirs are after her and Nathan and they both escape into the wilds of Canada on the hunt for a trio of sources but is it the sources they are after or something else?
I didn't like this book as much as the others in the series as reflected in my star rating. The main reason for this was because I didn't really like either Astrid or Nathan. I found them both very annoying, and I found their relationship for lack of a better word cloying. I personally found them both irritating some body was always breaking a barrier or breaching a wall between the other or communicating with their eyes all these different feelings and I know it is supposed to be romantic but there is only so much of that I can take without feeling nauseous. I wanted less gazing into each others eye and more getting on with what they are doing, they are being chased by a load of murderous lunatics after all!
The bits of the book that I did enjoy was the action parts where they were fighting or figuring things out and I especially loved the bits from Cattalus Graves point of view and I can't wait to read his book and hear about the continuing struggle with the Heirs.
I didn't like this book as much as the others in the series as reflected in my star rating. The main reason for this was because I didn't really like either Astrid or Nathan. I found them both very annoying, and I found their relationship for lack of a better word cloying. I personally found them both irritating some body was always breaking a barrier or breaching a wall between the other or communicating with their eyes all these different feelings and I know it is supposed to be romantic but there is only so much of that I can take without feeling nauseous. I wanted less gazing into each others eye and more getting on with what they are doing, they are being chased by a load of murderous lunatics after all!
The bits of the book that I did enjoy was the action parts where they were fighting or figuring things out and I especially loved the bits from Cattalus Graves point of view and I can't wait to read his book and hear about the continuing struggle with the Heirs.
November 2, 2010
Favorite Quote: This was not a girl’s shy kiss. Astrid kissed like a woman, full and unashamed.
Attorney Nathan Lesperance is kind of an outcast. Being the first Native American attorney in Vancouver, he is used to fighting his way to the top. Taken out of his home and sent to live with white people at a young age, he is also used to feeling out of place and has felt the need to prove himself ever since.
He is sent to the Northwest Territory in Canada to wrap-up some legal business with Astrid Bramfield. Astrid gave up her membership in The Blades of The Rose (those that protect the magical sources in the world from the evil Heirs of Albion) when her husband died in battle with the Heirs five years ago. Ever since, she has secluded herself deep within the cold wilderness of Canada, alone, breaking off all contact with her family and other members back in England. She has made the day’s journey to the fort to turn over a deceased trapper’s belongings. When she meets Nathan, there is an instant connection. She sees him and treats him like a man, not like an outsider or savage creature. She also notices magic surrounds him, something he is totally oblivious to.
Nathan not only takes in the breech-clad, gun slinging beauty Astrid, but the landscape is calling to him. He can almost hear the mountains asking him to come explore. When The Heirs of Albion come calling to the fort, in search of Astrid, Nathan’s protectiveness goes on full alert. The Heirs are now in possession of the very powerful, primal source and they know Astrid is very knowledgeable on this subject. Astrid and Nathan go on the run, Nathan discovers he is much more than just a man, and a love blooms in the wilderness.
I adore Rebel. I think Zoe Archer has such a skill for writing these tough, independent heroines who can fire weapons, live in horrid conditions and keep up with the toughest of men – yet – their heart is open to love. They have a great sense of humor. Astrid is still hurting so much over her dead husband, but cannot deny her feelings towards Nathan. Ever so slowly, this woman who has lived on her own in the wilderness of Canada, comes to rely on a man who has never been close to anyone in his life. They both accept their fate early on, it just takes awhile for them to actually believe it.
“You are a stubborn son of a bitch.”
“Always have been.”
“An arrogant, stubborn son of a bitch,” she amended.
“And you’re a recluse, a mountain cat who’s just as stubborn.” He unclasped his fingers from around her arm. A softer woman would bruise, but she wouldn’t. “We need to get back on the trail,” he said, yet added when she let out a small sigh of relief, “but don’t think this is over between us. I never back down from a challenge.”
She tilted up her chin. “Is that what I am to you, a challenge?”
“Oh, no, love,” he said softly. He stroked the skin just beneath her bottom lip with the pad of his thumb and was rewarded with a blaze of returning desire in her eyes. “You’re much more than that.”
Nathan is so surly and over protective and Astrid is just the woman to give it right back to him. Their chemistry really shines. For as much as this book is an adventure, entirely set in the Northwest Territory of Canada, we get so much page time devoted to Nathan and Astrid’s relationship. However, I really enjoyed the adventure in this one, and almost felt like I was in the harsh conditions with the characters. As Nathan goes on a hunt with Astrid to protect sources, he finally finds himself as part of a team, and he likes that feeling.
What makes this book even more special is that we get to know The Blade member Catullus Graves. He will be the hero in the next book, Stranger, but in this one he comes to the aid of Nathan and Astrid. He is a long time friend of Astrid. We learn he is obsessed with fine waistcoats and girls with freckles, yet he has never been in love. Always the gentlemen, and extremely smart (he excels in inventions) he is also not afraid to get dirty in a fight (as long as his waistcoat is not too ruined). It is hard to explain the allure of this character, but I haven’t felt this excited to get my hands on a future book for awhile.
Rating: B+
Attorney Nathan Lesperance is kind of an outcast. Being the first Native American attorney in Vancouver, he is used to fighting his way to the top. Taken out of his home and sent to live with white people at a young age, he is also used to feeling out of place and has felt the need to prove himself ever since.
He is sent to the Northwest Territory in Canada to wrap-up some legal business with Astrid Bramfield. Astrid gave up her membership in The Blades of The Rose (those that protect the magical sources in the world from the evil Heirs of Albion) when her husband died in battle with the Heirs five years ago. Ever since, she has secluded herself deep within the cold wilderness of Canada, alone, breaking off all contact with her family and other members back in England. She has made the day’s journey to the fort to turn over a deceased trapper’s belongings. When she meets Nathan, there is an instant connection. She sees him and treats him like a man, not like an outsider or savage creature. She also notices magic surrounds him, something he is totally oblivious to.
Nathan not only takes in the breech-clad, gun slinging beauty Astrid, but the landscape is calling to him. He can almost hear the mountains asking him to come explore. When The Heirs of Albion come calling to the fort, in search of Astrid, Nathan’s protectiveness goes on full alert. The Heirs are now in possession of the very powerful, primal source and they know Astrid is very knowledgeable on this subject. Astrid and Nathan go on the run, Nathan discovers he is much more than just a man, and a love blooms in the wilderness.
I adore Rebel. I think Zoe Archer has such a skill for writing these tough, independent heroines who can fire weapons, live in horrid conditions and keep up with the toughest of men – yet – their heart is open to love. They have a great sense of humor. Astrid is still hurting so much over her dead husband, but cannot deny her feelings towards Nathan. Ever so slowly, this woman who has lived on her own in the wilderness of Canada, comes to rely on a man who has never been close to anyone in his life. They both accept their fate early on, it just takes awhile for them to actually believe it.
“You are a stubborn son of a bitch.”
“Always have been.”
“An arrogant, stubborn son of a bitch,” she amended.
“And you’re a recluse, a mountain cat who’s just as stubborn.” He unclasped his fingers from around her arm. A softer woman would bruise, but she wouldn’t. “We need to get back on the trail,” he said, yet added when she let out a small sigh of relief, “but don’t think this is over between us. I never back down from a challenge.”
She tilted up her chin. “Is that what I am to you, a challenge?”
“Oh, no, love,” he said softly. He stroked the skin just beneath her bottom lip with the pad of his thumb and was rewarded with a blaze of returning desire in her eyes. “You’re much more than that.”
Nathan is so surly and over protective and Astrid is just the woman to give it right back to him. Their chemistry really shines. For as much as this book is an adventure, entirely set in the Northwest Territory of Canada, we get so much page time devoted to Nathan and Astrid’s relationship. However, I really enjoyed the adventure in this one, and almost felt like I was in the harsh conditions with the characters. As Nathan goes on a hunt with Astrid to protect sources, he finally finds himself as part of a team, and he likes that feeling.
What makes this book even more special is that we get to know The Blade member Catullus Graves. He will be the hero in the next book, Stranger, but in this one he comes to the aid of Nathan and Astrid. He is a long time friend of Astrid. We learn he is obsessed with fine waistcoats and girls with freckles, yet he has never been in love. Always the gentlemen, and extremely smart (he excels in inventions) he is also not afraid to get dirty in a fight (as long as his waistcoat is not too ruined). It is hard to explain the allure of this character, but I haven’t felt this excited to get my hands on a future book for awhile.
Rating: B+
November 2, 2010
(This was originally posted on Book Lovers Inc)
You can't go wrong with this series! Rebel is once again a great addition to The Blades of the Rose series. I loved Warrior and Scoundrel and I can now add Rebel to the list. Zoe Archer took us to Mongolia and Greece, this time we're going to the wilderness of Canada.
We learned about Astrid's existence through Catullus (I <3 Catullus) at the end of Scoundrel. We only knew that a few years ago she decided to leave everything and everyone behind to grieve her husband's death. We find her, an hermit, living by herself in a nearly deserted part of Canada. She only interacts with the trappers when she has to. She is a strong and independent woman who survived the horror of loosing her husband in a battle. I really liked her, she thought herself dead inside and refused to get attached to anyone ever again. Nathan Lesperance is an attorney, the only native attorney in Canada. He's been taken from his family, his tribe, when he was a child, to be brought up by the government. As a result he is an outsider, neither belonging with the Indians nor the White men. I really liked Nathan, he is strong and intelligent. When he meets Astrid, something awoke in him. (But I won't say more, so I won't spoil anything *wink*).
When Heirs shows up, Astrid and Nathan are forced to work together to stay alive and search for a Source to protect. Their quest for the Source won't be an easy one. We discover a side of Canada that I've never seen, the wilderness is breathtaking. Once again I felt like I was there with the heroes. It's really something amazing about Zoe Archer's writing.
I felt that the romance took a less important part in the book. I mean it's definitely there...but early in the book it already felt like being set in stone. I'm not saying there isn't some very hot smex scenes (coz there are! LOL). But for once, I was so engrossed in the adventure that I didn't mind that it was a little bit less smexy than in the previous books. Rebel is an action-packed story with a very cute romance. Astrid and Nathan really deserved their HEA. They both found a haven in each other.
Now...I know he's not the hero of this book but I couldn't not mention Catullus. I love this character and he's playing a big part in Rebel. I cannot wait to read his book, Stranger which comes out in a month *sob* A MONTH!!! You will love Catullus, but be warned that he's MINE and I'll wrestle you all to keep him for myself if I have to lol.
I give Rebel 4 1/2 bookies.
You can't go wrong with this series! Rebel is once again a great addition to The Blades of the Rose series. I loved Warrior and Scoundrel and I can now add Rebel to the list. Zoe Archer took us to Mongolia and Greece, this time we're going to the wilderness of Canada.
We learned about Astrid's existence through Catullus (I <3 Catullus) at the end of Scoundrel. We only knew that a few years ago she decided to leave everything and everyone behind to grieve her husband's death. We find her, an hermit, living by herself in a nearly deserted part of Canada. She only interacts with the trappers when she has to. She is a strong and independent woman who survived the horror of loosing her husband in a battle. I really liked her, she thought herself dead inside and refused to get attached to anyone ever again. Nathan Lesperance is an attorney, the only native attorney in Canada. He's been taken from his family, his tribe, when he was a child, to be brought up by the government. As a result he is an outsider, neither belonging with the Indians nor the White men. I really liked Nathan, he is strong and intelligent. When he meets Astrid, something awoke in him. (But I won't say more, so I won't spoil anything *wink*).
When Heirs shows up, Astrid and Nathan are forced to work together to stay alive and search for a Source to protect. Their quest for the Source won't be an easy one. We discover a side of Canada that I've never seen, the wilderness is breathtaking. Once again I felt like I was there with the heroes. It's really something amazing about Zoe Archer's writing.
I felt that the romance took a less important part in the book. I mean it's definitely there...but early in the book it already felt like being set in stone. I'm not saying there isn't some very hot smex scenes (coz there are! LOL). But for once, I was so engrossed in the adventure that I didn't mind that it was a little bit less smexy than in the previous books. Rebel is an action-packed story with a very cute romance. Astrid and Nathan really deserved their HEA. They both found a haven in each other.
Now...I know he's not the hero of this book but I couldn't not mention Catullus. I love this character and he's playing a big part in Rebel. I cannot wait to read his book, Stranger which comes out in a month *sob* A MONTH!!! You will love Catullus, but be warned that he's MINE and I'll wrestle you all to keep him for myself if I have to lol.
I give Rebel 4 1/2 bookies.
November 7, 2010
Another brilliantly written story with fantastic characters and wonderful use of imagination. This series just keeps getting better with each book.
This story was action packed from beginning to end. I could really feel the love between the H&H and also the friendship between The Blades. This book had a bit more of a paranormal theme than the last two book had. The fight scenes where riveting and kept me glued to the pages. The love scene where well done too. There is only one thing I did not like about this book, that is that it ended, LOL! Now I have to wait on Stranger to come out on December 7. I can hardly wait to read Catullus's story and read about the woman who finally makes him love for the first time.
If you have not read this series, I highly recommend it to ANYONE who loves reading romances. This will is so far one of my all time favorite romances series to date. If you don't believe me about how good it is, just look at all the other reviews.
This story was action packed from beginning to end. I could really feel the love between the H&H and also the friendship between The Blades. This book had a bit more of a paranormal theme than the last two book had. The fight scenes where riveting and kept me glued to the pages. The love scene where well done too. There is only one thing I did not like about this book, that is that it ended, LOL! Now I have to wait on Stranger to come out on December 7. I can hardly wait to read Catullus's story and read about the woman who finally makes him love for the first time.
If you have not read this series, I highly recommend it to ANYONE who loves reading romances. This will is so far one of my all time favorite romances series to date. If you don't believe me about how good it is, just look at all the other reviews.
July 5, 2017
Trigger warnings: violence, racism. I think that's all???
3.5 stars.
Is this series super cheesy and ridiculous? YES. Do I find the sex scenes utterly ridiculous and occasionally cringeworthy? Also yes. Do I love the world and the magic system and the fact that these books are set in unexpected places? HELL YES.
This one was enjoyable, but I think in the long run it will prove pretty forgettable. Like, I read it not even a week ago and I'm already pretty hazy on a lot of what happens. Probably the biggest draw card for me with this one is that the male protagonist is First Nations. I highly doubt that it's a good representation of First Nations people, but it didn't feel like it was perpetuating stereotypes, so...there's that.
3.5 stars.
Is this series super cheesy and ridiculous? YES. Do I find the sex scenes utterly ridiculous and occasionally cringeworthy? Also yes. Do I love the world and the magic system and the fact that these books are set in unexpected places? HELL YES.
This one was enjoyable, but I think in the long run it will prove pretty forgettable. Like, I read it not even a week ago and I'm already pretty hazy on a lot of what happens. Probably the biggest draw card for me with this one is that the male protagonist is First Nations. I highly doubt that it's a good representation of First Nations people, but it didn't feel like it was perpetuating stereotypes, so...there's that.
December 28, 2010
This one, perhaps even more than the two previous stories in this series, completely hooked me in. The story is totally compelling and beautifully told.
I've not read paranormal before, so maybe reading this after Warrior and Scoundrel makes a good introduction, but I would certainly read them in series, or they will be references that make no sense.
I absolutely loved how the depth of the characters, the experiences of bereavement and isolation and how fantastically the magical portions of the story are dealt with.
Loved it. 5 stars.
I've not read paranormal before, so maybe reading this after Warrior and Scoundrel makes a good introduction, but I would certainly read them in series, or they will be references that make no sense.
I absolutely loved how the depth of the characters, the experiences of bereavement and isolation and how fantastically the magical portions of the story are dealt with.
Loved it. 5 stars.
November 19, 2010
“Rebel” is the third installment in Zoe Archer’s The Blades of the Rose series. These are pretty much stand alone stories but some of the characters do cross over from book to book. In this book, we meet Astrid. Her name was mentioned in previous books but we had yet to actually see her. Astrid is a former Blade (the world’s protectors of Magic and its Sources). She escaped to Canada’s Great North after her husband, also a Blade, was killed by the Heirs (the men who wish to control the world’s Magic). He died in Astird’s arms, so for her to want to leave and go far far away from everyone and everything is completely understandable. Her experience as a Blade has equipped her with the necessary skills to survive in the Territories and she feels she has the life she wants for herself. Until she meets Nathan Lesperance.
Lesperance is a Native attorney from Victoria. He is sent to the North West Territories by his firm in order to collect the belongings of one of his clients who died there. Actually, it was Astrid who discovered the body. Astrid is at the Outpost where Nathan must go and instantly they feel magic between them. Little did they know that it is actually magic! After Nathan is kidnapped by a group of Heirs and breaks free, Astrid finds him and brings him to her isolated cabin to tend to his wounds. But there is more to Nathan that meets the eye and the wondrous Northern Mountains are helping reveal parts of himself he never would have imagined. And since Astrid is used to magic, she is not shocked by what Nathan discovers of himself. In fact, she embraces it and helps him do the same. She completely accepts him…and he accepts her and her need to be in control of her life. There is a definite spark between the two but there wasn’t much of a mating dance. There was mutual admiration and respect that grew into love. But it makes sense for these two since they are somewhat understated in their personality. They are both stubborn and fierce and loyal and a little lost and find great companionship and love in each other. And Nathan is incredibly protective of Astrid even though she’s dealt with magical happenings before. I found that quite cute about him.
Let’s talk about the setting… (Go, Canada, Go). *Rolls eyes* Enough of that now. What I meant before I was rudely interrupted by some strange Canadian lady was that Zoe has such a wonderful way of illustrating her settings with words, the terrain just jumps off the page. Same thing happens when she talks about the Natives’ cultures and rituals. It’s hard to believe that Zoe has not visited Northern Canada or even Mongolia for “Warrior” or Greece for “Scoundrel”. You swear she’s been and lived there for some time. Actually, you feel like she has jumped onto a time machine and lived in these countries in 1875 (the time the books take place). She not only captures the times well, but she portrays them rightly.
And the lovin’ is steamy. I’m just throwing that in. There’s this one scene, in a shelter…wow. The characters are somewhat unassuming so it makes sense that the love scenes are too. That doesn’t mean they are not steamy. Because they are. Really quite steamy. That’s all I’m going to say.
The next book in the series, “Stranger”, is about Cattulus Graves. Cattulus is the only character that has appeared in every book. He’s the resident genius…but with pizazz and style. I can’t wait for his book. The way he has been built up just makes me feel like there is no one more deserving of his own happily ever after. But that also means that I expect his book to be super fantastic! (No pressure Zoe). “Stranger” hits stores November 23rd 2010.
As for “Rebel”, it continued the series nicely. I still hate those pompous Heirs and want them all to fall down a well. Filled with giant fire breathing cockroaches. In Antarctica. The characters continue to draw me in and the whole concept is still captivating me. Another fun and exciting adventure story.
Lesperance is a Native attorney from Victoria. He is sent to the North West Territories by his firm in order to collect the belongings of one of his clients who died there. Actually, it was Astrid who discovered the body. Astrid is at the Outpost where Nathan must go and instantly they feel magic between them. Little did they know that it is actually magic! After Nathan is kidnapped by a group of Heirs and breaks free, Astrid finds him and brings him to her isolated cabin to tend to his wounds. But there is more to Nathan that meets the eye and the wondrous Northern Mountains are helping reveal parts of himself he never would have imagined. And since Astrid is used to magic, she is not shocked by what Nathan discovers of himself. In fact, she embraces it and helps him do the same. She completely accepts him…and he accepts her and her need to be in control of her life. There is a definite spark between the two but there wasn’t much of a mating dance. There was mutual admiration and respect that grew into love. But it makes sense for these two since they are somewhat understated in their personality. They are both stubborn and fierce and loyal and a little lost and find great companionship and love in each other. And Nathan is incredibly protective of Astrid even though she’s dealt with magical happenings before. I found that quite cute about him.
Let’s talk about the setting… (Go, Canada, Go). *Rolls eyes* Enough of that now. What I meant before I was rudely interrupted by some strange Canadian lady was that Zoe has such a wonderful way of illustrating her settings with words, the terrain just jumps off the page. Same thing happens when she talks about the Natives’ cultures and rituals. It’s hard to believe that Zoe has not visited Northern Canada or even Mongolia for “Warrior” or Greece for “Scoundrel”. You swear she’s been and lived there for some time. Actually, you feel like she has jumped onto a time machine and lived in these countries in 1875 (the time the books take place). She not only captures the times well, but she portrays them rightly.
And the lovin’ is steamy. I’m just throwing that in. There’s this one scene, in a shelter…wow. The characters are somewhat unassuming so it makes sense that the love scenes are too. That doesn’t mean they are not steamy. Because they are. Really quite steamy. That’s all I’m going to say.
The next book in the series, “Stranger”, is about Cattulus Graves. Cattulus is the only character that has appeared in every book. He’s the resident genius…but with pizazz and style. I can’t wait for his book. The way he has been built up just makes me feel like there is no one more deserving of his own happily ever after. But that also means that I expect his book to be super fantastic! (No pressure Zoe). “Stranger” hits stores November 23rd 2010.
As for “Rebel”, it continued the series nicely. I still hate those pompous Heirs and want them all to fall down a well. Filled with giant fire breathing cockroaches. In Antarctica. The characters continue to draw me in and the whole concept is still captivating me. Another fun and exciting adventure story.
May 27, 2011
Originally posted at WickedLilPixie Reviews
Nathan Lesperance comes from a world of being an Outsider in every way. Taken from his Native people as a child, raised in white society yet never being accepted socially in that society would have beaten down anyone. But not Nathan. He shows them all by becoming the only Indian lawyer in Victoria, often taking pro bono cases by the minorities who would otherwise have no representation. Nathan has always known he was different on the outside, but could only guess that he was different on the inside as well. The minute he enters the Northwest territory, and meets the enigmatic Astrid Bramfield, the land immediately calls to him and his yet to be tapped magic.
Rebel is the third book in Zoë Archer’s Blades of the Rose series, and is my favorite of the the three so far. The mysticism and harsh cruelty of Northwest Americas landscape was beautifully done. The mountains and forests and devastating cold was easy to imagine as the story played out and their journey took them across the unforgiving landscapes. And Nathan… Sigh… Nathan. Here is a man who has never fit in anywhere, but has gone out of his way to shove it right back in to the white peoples faces by becoming part of their own legal system. He is fascinatingly complex in intellect and unlike any man Astrid has ever seen. He has survived a solitary life and unimaginable loneliness, and in Astrid he finds an instant jolt of awareness. The reaction is mutual and at first sight they are instantly enamored with one another. I was so pleased that I not only connected with each the hero and the heroine, but watching them both grow and discover themselves was rewarding. I smiled a LOT during this book, as cheesey as that sounds. There are so many tender moments to offset some very harsh realities that must be faced.
Rebel is a captivating story filled with wonderful and dramatic conflict and major action and suspense from start to finish. I was pleasantly surprised to discover what Nathan’s magic was, and was very enraptured by his pursuit to discover himself, and also his pursuit to win Astrid’s heart. There was no question that Astrid would be able to run from him even if she physically could have. Their adventure together includes a slide down mountains, fight with animals made of bone and ice, climb huge trees, hike through miles of caves… the adventure truly never stops and neither does the love story. There are shifters of all varieties, landscapes of all kinds, and even zombies. This book just keeps bringing it!
By now we have gotten to know Cattulus Graves quite well over the last three books, and his genius inventions. He plays a larger role in this book than the previous ones, and you cannot help but be truly enamored with him. Some of the most heartbreaking parts for me had to do with Cattalus and his loneliness. I cannot wait to read Stranger in which we finally get his book.
I really enjoyed Warrior, and Scoundrel was good, but Rebel? I feel like it was “my book”. Everything about it called out to me and gave me what I need in a perfect suspense, action, romance with paranormal aspects and some history in there, also some steampunk genre. This book is a nice mashup of winning qualities of a lot of different genres and you just can’t go wrong with it! I can’t wait to read the fourth and final Blades of the Rose book, Stranger, but it has a tough act to follow with this one. You do not need to have read the previous two books to appreciate this one. The Blades of the Rose series reading order:
Warrior
Scoundrel
Rebel
Stranger
Nathan Lesperance comes from a world of being an Outsider in every way. Taken from his Native people as a child, raised in white society yet never being accepted socially in that society would have beaten down anyone. But not Nathan. He shows them all by becoming the only Indian lawyer in Victoria, often taking pro bono cases by the minorities who would otherwise have no representation. Nathan has always known he was different on the outside, but could only guess that he was different on the inside as well. The minute he enters the Northwest territory, and meets the enigmatic Astrid Bramfield, the land immediately calls to him and his yet to be tapped magic.
Rebel is the third book in Zoë Archer’s Blades of the Rose series, and is my favorite of the the three so far. The mysticism and harsh cruelty of Northwest Americas landscape was beautifully done. The mountains and forests and devastating cold was easy to imagine as the story played out and their journey took them across the unforgiving landscapes. And Nathan… Sigh… Nathan. Here is a man who has never fit in anywhere, but has gone out of his way to shove it right back in to the white peoples faces by becoming part of their own legal system. He is fascinatingly complex in intellect and unlike any man Astrid has ever seen. He has survived a solitary life and unimaginable loneliness, and in Astrid he finds an instant jolt of awareness. The reaction is mutual and at first sight they are instantly enamored with one another. I was so pleased that I not only connected with each the hero and the heroine, but watching them both grow and discover themselves was rewarding. I smiled a LOT during this book, as cheesey as that sounds. There are so many tender moments to offset some very harsh realities that must be faced.
Rebel is a captivating story filled with wonderful and dramatic conflict and major action and suspense from start to finish. I was pleasantly surprised to discover what Nathan’s magic was, and was very enraptured by his pursuit to discover himself, and also his pursuit to win Astrid’s heart. There was no question that Astrid would be able to run from him even if she physically could have. Their adventure together includes a slide down mountains, fight with animals made of bone and ice, climb huge trees, hike through miles of caves… the adventure truly never stops and neither does the love story. There are shifters of all varieties, landscapes of all kinds, and even zombies. This book just keeps bringing it!
By now we have gotten to know Cattulus Graves quite well over the last three books, and his genius inventions. He plays a larger role in this book than the previous ones, and you cannot help but be truly enamored with him. Some of the most heartbreaking parts for me had to do with Cattalus and his loneliness. I cannot wait to read Stranger in which we finally get his book.
I really enjoyed Warrior, and Scoundrel was good, but Rebel? I feel like it was “my book”. Everything about it called out to me and gave me what I need in a perfect suspense, action, romance with paranormal aspects and some history in there, also some steampunk genre. This book is a nice mashup of winning qualities of a lot of different genres and you just can’t go wrong with it! I can’t wait to read the fourth and final Blades of the Rose book, Stranger, but it has a tough act to follow with this one. You do not need to have read the previous two books to appreciate this one. The Blades of the Rose series reading order:
Warrior
Scoundrel
Rebel
Stranger
October 28, 2010
I've SO enjoyed reading about the Blades thus far, and was thrilled to add REBEL to my library and count it among the best reads I've had this year. I love that each book in this series manages to be both satisfying as an individual novel, but also tie together with the others in subtle but solid ways as well. I would suggest starting with WARRIOR and working through them in order, however you could read any of the three alone and enjoy.
In this installment we meet Astrid, a former Blade (who went into hiding/seclusion after her husband was murdered 5 years ago) on the very day that she meets Nathan. He's a Native American lawyer who was raised by white settlers, but has a very special calling to the mountains and woods near her home in the Canadian wilderness...
This book was AWESOME. Much like the previous two, there are touches of magic and wonder, but at the same time intense and wonderful scenery, action, humor, romance, drama, and a stunning backdrop for this tale. WOW!!
Astrid was unique - having been a recluse for years and learning how to survive off the local land (not to mention her previous years as an adventuring Blade) she's not like most women. She's tough, skilled, lean with muscle, and a heroine I never tired of reading about. Her haunting past and her realizations felt realistic to me, and reading all about it as she finds that rather than give up her old ways/lifestyle she was just hiding from it... wow.
I can't say enough about this series - the writing is top knotch and each time Zoe Archer manages to surprise, delight, and WOW me. LOVE LOVE LOVE this book... and counting weeks for #4's release.
In this installment we meet Astrid, a former Blade (who went into hiding/seclusion after her husband was murdered 5 years ago) on the very day that she meets Nathan. He's a Native American lawyer who was raised by white settlers, but has a very special calling to the mountains and woods near her home in the Canadian wilderness...
This book was AWESOME. Much like the previous two, there are touches of magic and wonder, but at the same time intense and wonderful scenery, action, humor, romance, drama, and a stunning backdrop for this tale. WOW!!
Astrid was unique - having been a recluse for years and learning how to survive off the local land (not to mention her previous years as an adventuring Blade) she's not like most women. She's tough, skilled, lean with muscle, and a heroine I never tired of reading about. Her haunting past and her realizations felt realistic to me, and reading all about it as she finds that rather than give up her old ways/lifestyle she was just hiding from it... wow.
I can't say enough about this series - the writing is top knotch and each time Zoe Archer manages to surprise, delight, and WOW me. LOVE LOVE LOVE this book... and counting weeks for #4's release.
February 11, 2011
I can't tell you how much I adore this series! I was prepared for this one to be a little less fantastic than the first two, but I was pleasantly surprised. All the magical elements were certainly present, and the adventure was just as fun as the other books.
Astrid and Nathan were a likeable couple, both outsiders in the world....Astrid by choice and Nathan because of his race. There was an immediate attraction between them as they both recognized themselves in the other. I was drawn in from their first meeting. Their love was passionate and strong and grew the more time they spent together. I loved all of Nathan's growling and nuzzling, breaking down the walls around Astrid's heart. He was 28 and they intimated in the book that she was a bit older than him, but they never specified her actual age. This made it better for me because I'm not usually very fond of the older woman/younger man scenario.
The war between the Heirs and the Blades has reached a critical point by the end of this book, and now that the Heirs have the Primal Source in their hands. Everyone is heading back to London for what seems to be the final showdown. I can't wait!
I loved seeing more of Cattalus Graves, one of my favorites in the series, and his romance was set up nicely for the next book. I hope to see more of his fabulous inventions and a blow-up ending to the war raging for the Sources. Archer has truly created something amazing with the Blades of the Rose series...it's so unique and full of imagination and peril and magic and romance and everything I love to read about all rolled into one.
Astrid and Nathan were a likeable couple, both outsiders in the world....Astrid by choice and Nathan because of his race. There was an immediate attraction between them as they both recognized themselves in the other. I was drawn in from their first meeting. Their love was passionate and strong and grew the more time they spent together. I loved all of Nathan's growling and nuzzling, breaking down the walls around Astrid's heart. He was 28 and they intimated in the book that she was a bit older than him, but they never specified her actual age. This made it better for me because I'm not usually very fond of the older woman/younger man scenario.
The war between the Heirs and the Blades has reached a critical point by the end of this book, and now that the Heirs have the Primal Source in their hands. Everyone is heading back to London for what seems to be the final showdown. I can't wait!
I loved seeing more of Cattalus Graves, one of my favorites in the series, and his romance was set up nicely for the next book. I hope to see more of his fabulous inventions and a blow-up ending to the war raging for the Sources. Archer has truly created something amazing with the Blades of the Rose series...it's so unique and full of imagination and peril and magic and romance and everything I love to read about all rolled into one.
June 19, 2016
In the mountains of Western Canada, Nathan Lesperance is rescued by former Blades of the Rose agent Astrid Bramfield, who after losing her beloved Blades husband Michael, has retreated from life itself. The Heirs of Albion are hot on Nathan's trail and Astrid must once again join the human race and help Nathan escape or flight the Heirs though neither knows why they have targeted Nathan. Of course, the attraction between them was instant and the chemistry is off the charts. Will Nathan be able to pull Astrid back among the living?
This is a rip-roaring adventure in 1875 that has just what you'd expect during that time period, well except for the shape-shifters of course. I love the gadgets the Blades use to defeat the Heirs. Too cool! And I like the fact that the Blades don't always win when facing the Heirs. It just makes it more realistic and provides greater adventures and a more suspenseful experience.
This is a rip-roaring adventure in 1875 that has just what you'd expect during that time period, well except for the shape-shifters of course. I love the gadgets the Blades use to defeat the Heirs. Too cool! And I like the fact that the Blades don't always win when facing the Heirs. It just makes it more realistic and provides greater adventures and a more suspenseful experience.
October 28, 2011
Love this book, love this series. It is so much fun to read. This book started off a little slowly and somewhat differently than the other books in this series. They are in the Canadien Rockies. Her writing was different as well, as if she modified it for the surroundings. The characters had such depth and the relationship that develops between Nathan and Astrid is amazing. I love how the author handles Astrid and her grief over her husband. Also, I was not expexting this to be shape shifter story. Once the action picks up the book moves much faster. It was great to see Catullas Graves in action and to begin to get to know him better. There are nit picky things about this book that bothered me, but nothing big enough to take away from the sheer enjoyment of reading this adventure story.
did-not-finish
September 29, 2016If you describe your Native main character as a barely restrained animal, especially when he meets a white woman, I will not finish your book.
January 22, 2011
After adoring Warrior and Scoundrel, I was very eager to read Rebel. Unfortunately, this one didn't grab me like the first two.
Astrid's character is one that I can sympathize with; however, I think anyone could. She's lost her husband under horrible circumstances and doesn't have the will to put up a facade for her friends and family and go on working as a Blade; especially since this is the very vocation that led to her husband's death. So, she sequesters herself away in the Northwestern Territory; effectively cutting off all ties to her friends and family.
I liked Astrid's character. But, at the same time, I didn't really feel a connection with her character like I did with the two previous installments' heroines. I don't know if it was her grief, or something else altogether, but she never seemed like a character that I could imagine myself liking or connecting with.
Nathan was a good male protagonist. Nothing special, but not bad, either. There were times when he was more interesting than others. There's a surprise with his character, though, that really did set him apart from most male characters of this genre.
But I've always said that the characters are the most important aspect of a novel (for me, anyway), and I believe because of this, I found the romance in this to be just all right. I didn't ever really find myself routing for their relationship; especially not like the hero and heroine of the last installment. (Bennett and London are absolutely one of my favorite couples of this genre.)
Now with all of this said, I have to ask myself: Would I have liked this more had I not been comparing it to the earlier installments in this series? Yes, I believe so. But, alas, it is inevitable to make comparisons as this is a series.
So, you're probably wondering why I am giving this three and a half stars. Well, these are my reasons:
Despite everything just said, the writing, as with the first two novels in this series, was phenomenal. Also, the world that Ms. Archer has created is one I'm very found of visiting: It's basically Indiana Jones meets historical romance. Throw in a dash of steampunk and you've got yourself a Blades of the Rose novel. They're fabulous. And although I didn't enjoy this one as much as I would have liked, it was still a very entertaining read.
The next Blades of the Rose novel is Stranger, which was released back in December of last year. I've got it on my shelf waiting to be read and I'm very much looking forward to it. It features Catullus Graves, the man behind all of the gadgets that give these novels their steampunk edge. He's been a favorite character of mine since book one and I'm sure to love his book.
RATING: 3.5 stars.
Astrid's character is one that I can sympathize with; however, I think anyone could. She's lost her husband under horrible circumstances and doesn't have the will to put up a facade for her friends and family and go on working as a Blade; especially since this is the very vocation that led to her husband's death. So, she sequesters herself away in the Northwestern Territory; effectively cutting off all ties to her friends and family.
I liked Astrid's character. But, at the same time, I didn't really feel a connection with her character like I did with the two previous installments' heroines. I don't know if it was her grief, or something else altogether, but she never seemed like a character that I could imagine myself liking or connecting with.
Nathan was a good male protagonist. Nothing special, but not bad, either. There were times when he was more interesting than others. There's a surprise with his character, though, that really did set him apart from most male characters of this genre.
But I've always said that the characters are the most important aspect of a novel (for me, anyway), and I believe because of this, I found the romance in this to be just all right. I didn't ever really find myself routing for their relationship; especially not like the hero and heroine of the last installment. (Bennett and London are absolutely one of my favorite couples of this genre.)
Now with all of this said, I have to ask myself: Would I have liked this more had I not been comparing it to the earlier installments in this series? Yes, I believe so. But, alas, it is inevitable to make comparisons as this is a series.
So, you're probably wondering why I am giving this three and a half stars. Well, these are my reasons:
Despite everything just said, the writing, as with the first two novels in this series, was phenomenal. Also, the world that Ms. Archer has created is one I'm very found of visiting: It's basically Indiana Jones meets historical romance. Throw in a dash of steampunk and you've got yourself a Blades of the Rose novel. They're fabulous. And although I didn't enjoy this one as much as I would have liked, it was still a very entertaining read.
The next Blades of the Rose novel is Stranger, which was released back in December of last year. I've got it on my shelf waiting to be read and I'm very much looking forward to it. It features Catullus Graves, the man behind all of the gadgets that give these novels their steampunk edge. He's been a favorite character of mine since book one and I'm sure to love his book.
RATING: 3.5 stars.
September 2, 2011
Rebel is book 3 in the Blades of the Rose series by Zoe Archer. Nathan Lesperance is thrust into the middle of long standing war between the Blades of the Rose, protectors of magic and the Heirs of Albion, the men who wish to control all magic for power. Clueless to his own deep ties into magic, Nathan experiences an immediate connection when he first meets widow, Astrid Bramfield. After a brutal attack, Nathan and Astrid embark upon a journey that will help Nathan uncover his past and help build their relationship.
This is the first book I’ve read in this series and I have to say I’m in total awe. Archer’s writing style immediately sucks the reader into the story of Nathan and Astrid. She also goes into great detail about each character that allows you to connect with them and the relationship they try to build.
Astrid is a strongly independent woman who knows how to take care of herself. After the death of her husband, she drops out of the Blades of the Rose and moves into the mountains to create a wall of isolation between herself and her family and friends. Nathan is stuck between two worlds. He’s a Native American who is seen as an oddity in the “white man’s” culture and as an “outsider” to the Native American culture. As the story unfolds, you learn about his past and how he’s much more connected to the Northern Territory than he could have ever imagined.
While I enjoy a good western (visually), I’ve never taken the time to read a western-themed paranormal book and Rebel was definitely worth the reading time. Archer clearly has a flair for mixing the paranormal with the life and times of the 1800’s. It almost has a “steam punk” feel to it with some of the tools and instruments used by other characters in the book.
It’s clear that Rebel is part of a series, but you can pick up this book and not feel like you’re being plopped into the middles of storyline. You’ have the complete picture of where things stand in one book. I will warn you though, it’s enough to make you go out and pick up the first two books, Warrior and Scoundrel. Rebel also sets the reader up for Book 4, Stranger, which is Blade of the Rose member, Catullus Graves’ story. One interesting fact – Graves is an African American – which has me intrigued enough to add Stranger to my TBR list. I’m looking forward to see how Archer writes out his story during that timeline.
This is the first book I’ve read in this series and I have to say I’m in total awe. Archer’s writing style immediately sucks the reader into the story of Nathan and Astrid. She also goes into great detail about each character that allows you to connect with them and the relationship they try to build.
Astrid is a strongly independent woman who knows how to take care of herself. After the death of her husband, she drops out of the Blades of the Rose and moves into the mountains to create a wall of isolation between herself and her family and friends. Nathan is stuck between two worlds. He’s a Native American who is seen as an oddity in the “white man’s” culture and as an “outsider” to the Native American culture. As the story unfolds, you learn about his past and how he’s much more connected to the Northern Territory than he could have ever imagined.
While I enjoy a good western (visually), I’ve never taken the time to read a western-themed paranormal book and Rebel was definitely worth the reading time. Archer clearly has a flair for mixing the paranormal with the life and times of the 1800’s. It almost has a “steam punk” feel to it with some of the tools and instruments used by other characters in the book.
It’s clear that Rebel is part of a series, but you can pick up this book and not feel like you’re being plopped into the middles of storyline. You’ have the complete picture of where things stand in one book. I will warn you though, it’s enough to make you go out and pick up the first two books, Warrior and Scoundrel. Rebel also sets the reader up for Book 4, Stranger, which is Blade of the Rose member, Catullus Graves’ story. One interesting fact – Graves is an African American – which has me intrigued enough to add Stranger to my TBR list. I’m looking forward to see how Archer writes out his story during that timeline.
April 30, 2019
Mom and I can’t found a beauty in the wildness of this book. Native Americans don’t usually appear in romance novels and having that tied in with shapeshifters made for a very interesting read. The aspects of the relationship between the two main characters was beautiful. Mom loved a fight scenes where two people are so connected that they fight as one. This one did not have quite as many steampunk eliminates they magic system was still very strong and the villain’s where just a diabolical as ever. Mom love the detail of the heroine being able to find similarities with one of the villain’s realizing how easily it is to go down the wrong road. Definitely can not wait to read the last installment in this book.
February 20, 2015
When an 'errand' brings 'rebel' Native attorney Nathan Lesperance to back to the area inhabited by his ancestors, a meeting with reclusive frontier's woman Astrid Bramfield sparks his senses and causes something hidden within him to begin to stir. Even as he feels an unexplainable draw to Astrid, the former Blade rebuffs his advances and retreat to her self-imposed exile. But when Nathan runs afoul of the Blades' enemies, the magic stealing "Heirs", and ends up naked and bloody on Astrid’s doorstep, Astrid finds herself pulled back into the battle and partnered with Nathan. As they fight their way through the rugged frontier in a race to beat the Heirs to a magical prize, Nathan challenges Astrid to put her grief behind her and to 'live' again.
I am really enjoying Zoe Archer’s historical adventure romance series set in exotic locales - this time the wilds of the frozen northwest. And Rebel is my favorite of the Blades or the Rose so far. Throughout the series, Archer has done a really good job in making all of her books stand apart, no cookie cutter romances with interchangeable starring pairs here. But she out does herself in Rebel, Nathan and Astrid are both well drawn characters and their slowly developing relationship brings a great deal of emotional depth to a story, that also has a good amount of action and covers some very beautifully described territory.
So I loved both Nathan and Astrid and I loved Nathan’s awakening which added a touch of paranormal to the story and I loved Rebel. I am three for three on the series and I have high hopes for the final Blades of the Rose, and I am really happy that there isn't a long wait for Stranger since Archer has already setup her next starring pair and I am looking forward to their story.
I am really enjoying Zoe Archer’s historical adventure romance series set in exotic locales - this time the wilds of the frozen northwest. And Rebel is my favorite of the Blades or the Rose so far. Throughout the series, Archer has done a really good job in making all of her books stand apart, no cookie cutter romances with interchangeable starring pairs here. But she out does herself in Rebel, Nathan and Astrid are both well drawn characters and their slowly developing relationship brings a great deal of emotional depth to a story, that also has a good amount of action and covers some very beautifully described territory.
So I loved both Nathan and Astrid and I loved Nathan’s awakening which added a touch of paranormal to the story and I loved Rebel. I am three for three on the series and I have high hopes for the final Blades of the Rose, and I am really happy that there isn't a long wait for Stranger since Archer has already setup her next starring pair and I am looking forward to their story.
January 30, 2018
Archer's 'Blades of the Rose' series is the romance novel version of kraft mac n cheese. You know it's not haute cuisine, but damn if it doesn't hit all the right spots in a delightfully satisfying sort of way. We have here a self-reliant heroine, valued for her brainpower and tenacity, that's neither naive nor virginally stupid, and not a blushing sweet 16 to boot. She's an integral part of a steampunk-flavored secret society saving the world from rich, misogynistic, moustache-twirling, one-percenter assholes hell-bent on conquest/colonization/world domination. The battle of good vs evil here is simplistically clear-cut, with heroes you can root for and villains you can flip off with glee. The slightly wounded hottie that loves our pioneer woman on her own terms without demanding she become someone that fits his mold of perfection is just icing on this cake. Literary comfort food at its best.
September 11, 2016
This book was too long. During the key fight scene, I found myself wanting to scream at them to stop messing around and just get on with it. Should anyone really stop for a kiss and conversation in the middle of a life or death battle? It was also a bit disjointed in places - introducing new minor characters, new magical weapons, and new problems too frequently. And why is it okay to have a woman fight and kill for your team but upsetting to have to fight a crazy and evil woman on the other side? This is a bizarre form of anti-feminism. But mostly it was just too long of a book, and I had to force myself to finish a novel I was initially riveted by. (PS - the amount of focus on sex in this book didn't seem to fit with the rest of the story. Toning it down would give this book a more general audience.)
May 2, 2021
This book is all about finding your inner wolf. Astrid lost her husband five years ago, and has lived in an isolated cabin in the Canadian wilderness since. She has lost touch with herself and what her life is about, and can’t move on because of grief and guilt.
Nathan was taken from his tribe at a young age and sent to an Indian School. He was taught that his Native ways are wrong, and is now a prominent attorney in Victoria, B.C. He has always had to hide his true self, for fear of being seen as a savage.
These two find each other and really help one another connect with Self again. And their romance is sweet as well.
I love the magical world of this series. This installment includes shape shifting beings - which are my fav for sure.
Nathan was taken from his tribe at a young age and sent to an Indian School. He was taught that his Native ways are wrong, and is now a prominent attorney in Victoria, B.C. He has always had to hide his true self, for fear of being seen as a savage.
These two find each other and really help one another connect with Self again. And their romance is sweet as well.
I love the magical world of this series. This installment includes shape shifting beings - which are my fav for sure.
November 11, 2010
I hate to rain on the parade--but this was a wallbanger for me.
I will agree that Ms Archer is a good writer and I quite liked Astrid. But Nathan--why oh why did she have to do the whole Mystical Native American-Shape Shifter thing with him?? Why?? One of my hot buttons!!
I was so set on watching frontier wise Astrid and city-slicker Nathan cope with the baddies and poof--it was gone.
So maybe the reason I am upset is failed expectations--But I am sooo tired to the mystical powers of Native American shamans trope.
I am glad for Ms Archer that so many of the reviewers had no problem with it.
And I WILL be back for Catullus' tale and the grand wrap-up.
I will agree that Ms Archer is a good writer and I quite liked Astrid. But Nathan--why oh why did she have to do the whole Mystical Native American-Shape Shifter thing with him?? Why?? One of my hot buttons!!
I was so set on watching frontier wise Astrid and city-slicker Nathan cope with the baddies and poof--it was gone.
So maybe the reason I am upset is failed expectations--But I am sooo tired to the mystical powers of Native American shamans trope.
I am glad for Ms Archer that so many of the reviewers had no problem with it.
And I WILL be back for Catullus' tale and the grand wrap-up.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 28, 2010
Quite possibly a perfect novel--an absolutely gripping love story surrounded by fast-paced action and enough conflict to interest even the most jaded of readers. Out of the four Blades of the Roses books, this one is the most "paranormal," and Hero has certain unique traits that often turn me off to paranormals, however, it totally works here, and Nathan is a hot, multi-layered hero who is totally worthy of uber-independent Astrid who is the most kick-butt heroine of the series, and quite possibly my favorite character of the series. While it stands on its own, readers will get the most enjoyment from reading the series in orders.
March 28, 2023
Love the adventure and the setting :D (Canadian Wilderness)
And Nathan Lesperance is hot, hot, hot, even I love Bennett Day from
Review to follow..(and I forgot to write, maybe later, *LOL*)
But, GOOD NEWS!!
Rebel had nominated at RITA 2011 as finalist for Paranormal Romance!!!
Yay for Zoe Archer and The Blades of The Rose ^^...
And Nathan Lesperance is hot, hot, hot, even I love Bennett Day from
Review to follow..(and I forgot to write, maybe later, *LOL*)
But, GOOD NEWS!!
Rebel had nominated at RITA 2011 as finalist for Paranormal Romance!!!
Yay for Zoe Archer and The Blades of The Rose ^^...
January 19, 2016
Rebel took me awhile to get involved in the story, but once I did it was just as entertaining as the other two books. I was surprised at Nathan's gift, but once I got used to it, the book wouldn't have worked any other way.
Out of all the books I felt that this book could have been read as a standalone. ZA did a good job of bring the past and future together and of course I loved getting to know Catilus Graves a bit more.
While not my fav of the series it is still a strong entry and a very good read and kept me very entertained.
Out of all the books I felt that this book could have been read as a standalone. ZA did a good job of bring the past and future together and of course I loved getting to know Catilus Graves a bit more.
While not my fav of the series it is still a strong entry and a very good read and kept me very entertained.
September 28, 2011
It took me a while to warm up to both Astrid and Nathan, but in the end I loved them. Not quite as much as Gabrial and Thalia, but they had such a connection. I really enjoy hearing about past couples and, hopefully, we'll get to see them soon. Catullus plays an important role in this book and I am really looking forward to Stranger.
August 12, 2011
Not my favorite of the Blade series. It was slow going for me to get into the story. I admire Zoe Archer's action writing, but the repetitive way she described the H and h's inner dialogue drove me up the wall. All right already! She's afraid to love again. We GET it. I felt it was a lot of telling rather than showing.
With all that, I will continue with the series, but I wish Catullus was the next one.
With all that, I will continue with the series, but I wish Catullus was the next one.
June 9, 2015
I adored this book. I enjoyed how Nathan and Astrid worked together. Astrid's intelligence and abilities weren't downplayed or disrespected. She was respected and treated as an equal. There's also Astrid's quiet strength that fortifies and builds Nathan's. Awesome!
I enjoyed each book more than the previous, so if this holds up, Stranger (book 4 and the last) will be kick-ass!
I enjoyed each book more than the previous, so if this holds up, Stranger (book 4 and the last) will be kick-ass!
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