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Elven Alliance #2
War Bound
Marriage to an elf is complicated…especially bringing him home to meet the family.
Princess Elspeth of Escarland married the elf prince and achieved peace between the elves and her human people. But after a recent ambush by the trolls, it is clear the trolls are trying to start a war between the elves and humans once again. To keep their peoples at peace, Essie and Farrendel travel to meet Essie’s family and negotiate peace.
Yet in Escarland, not everyone is happy with peace. Traitors lurk in both Escarland and Tarenhiel, and it will be up to Essie and Farrendel to flush them out. The consequences of failure might be more personal and deadly than they fear.
Princess Elspeth of Escarland married the elf prince and achieved peace between the elves and her human people. But after a recent ambush by the trolls, it is clear the trolls are trying to start a war between the elves and humans once again. To keep their peoples at peace, Essie and Farrendel travel to meet Essie’s family and negotiate peace.
Yet in Escarland, not everyone is happy with peace. Traitors lurk in both Escarland and Tarenhiel, and it will be up to Essie and Farrendel to flush them out. The consequences of failure might be more personal and deadly than they fear.
324 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 21, 2020
1006 people are currently reading
1227 people want to read
About the author
Tara Grayce
33 books803 followersBorn and raised in Michigan, I enjoy traveling to new adventures that inspire my writing.
Growing up, I read just about every book I could get my hands on, especially fantasy. I currently write YA fantasy and romantic fantasy filled with lots of humor, spunky and tough leading ladies, and broken heroes.
When I am not writing, I enjoy spending time with my chocolate lab, Miss Kisses.
Growing up, I read just about every book I could get my hands on, especially fantasy. I currently write YA fantasy and romantic fantasy filled with lots of humor, spunky and tough leading ladies, and broken heroes.
When I am not writing, I enjoy spending time with my chocolate lab, Miss Kisses.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 425 reviews
November 11, 2024
✅ Quick read
✅ Action
✅🆗 Characters
✅🆗 Plot
🆗 Romance
❗️❗️ Cliffhanger
I am happy to say that this book is better than the first one.
The story is similar to Fierce Heart in many aspects, but this time, Farrendel is visiting a foreign land and has to get used to Essie's family and way of life.
Essie's family is definitely more interesting than Farrendel's. The characters are sweet and funny and their dynamic with Farrendel is so cute! I really enjoyed reading this book and seeing the relationship between Essie and Farrendel's progress. It was smoother than in the first book (probably because there were no time jumps). Their relationship stays sweet and progresses slowly. They are learning about each other and about their feelings and it fits with their characters (for now). I admit that I would not mind having them share a little more than two kisses in the next book.
Essie and Farrendel also have to deal with the weapons in the troll's hands issue while they are visiting, and they discover that people are plotting against their kingdoms and against them. Not everyone is happy about a possible alliance between humans and elves and not everyone wants to keep Essie and Farrendel alive. There is more action near the end (and betrayal), and the book ends with a cliffhanger so I was happy to have the third one already available on Kindle.
Now I just hope that Death Wind does not also finish with a cliffhanger because the fourth book is not out yet and this series is weirdly addictive even though it is predictable and cliché at times.
1. Fierce Heart ⭐⭐⭐
1.5 Elf Prince ⭐⭐⭐
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✅ Action
✅🆗 Characters
✅🆗 Plot
🆗 Romance
❗️❗️ Cliffhanger
I am happy to say that this book is better than the first one.
The story is similar to Fierce Heart in many aspects, but this time, Farrendel is visiting a foreign land and has to get used to Essie's family and way of life.
Essie's family is definitely more interesting than Farrendel's. The characters are sweet and funny and their dynamic with Farrendel is so cute! I really enjoyed reading this book and seeing the relationship between Essie and Farrendel's progress. It was smoother than in the first book (probably because there were no time jumps). Their relationship stays sweet and progresses slowly. They are learning about each other and about their feelings and it fits with their characters (for now). I admit that I would not mind having them share a little more than two kisses in the next book.
Essie and Farrendel also have to deal with the weapons in the troll's hands issue while they are visiting, and they discover that people are plotting against their kingdoms and against them. Not everyone is happy about a possible alliance between humans and elves and not everyone wants to keep Essie and Farrendel alive. There is more action near the end (and betrayal), and the book ends with a cliffhanger so I was happy to have the third one already available on Kindle.
Now I just hope that Death Wind does not also finish with a cliffhanger because the fourth book is not out yet and this series is weirdly addictive even though it is predictable and cliché at times.
1. Fierce Heart ⭐⭐⭐
1.5 Elf Prince ⭐⭐⭐
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October 17, 2024
Isn't it lovely when you can eat a really yummy dessert with zero guilt? For me, that's this book, and the one before it. I typically don't have much luck with romance-centered stories as they often leave me feeling a bit ill afterwards, but this story is so cute, so easy to connect with, so FUN.
Our adorable, chatty heroine is bringing home her husband to her family...her husband, the terrifying elf warrior. Her husband, who actually is just a very anxious and shy smol bundle of nerves and ptsd and sad backstory, but is as sweet and considerate as can possibly be. Essie's family....WHAT DARLINGS. The amount of domestic and family-bonding fluff in this story is just wonderful. I love see Farrendel get the motherly and brotherly treatment he always wanted and always needed.
However, under all the great character-building, there lies a plot of tension as the characters are trying stop a horrible war and find traitors. This leads to a terrific climax and cliff-hanger that left me gasping "OH, I knew it, how awful, I love it, I am a terrible person, hahaha."
Content: Squeaky Clean. Which is shocking and refreshing for a story about a married couple. Then again, our little lovebirds are still adjusting to the "complete strangers suddenly in an arranged marriage" and they are more interested in building a relationship of trust and friendship with sweet acts of affection and some tender kisses rather than rushing things.
CANNOT WAIT FOR THE NEXT BOOK.
Our adorable, chatty heroine is bringing home her husband to her family...her husband, the terrifying elf warrior. Her husband, who actually is just a very anxious and shy smol bundle of nerves and ptsd and sad backstory, but is as sweet and considerate as can possibly be. Essie's family....WHAT DARLINGS. The amount of domestic and family-bonding fluff in this story is just wonderful. I love see Farrendel get the motherly and brotherly treatment he always wanted and always needed.
However, under all the great character-building, there lies a plot of tension as the characters are trying stop a horrible war and find traitors. This leads to a terrific climax and cliff-hanger that left me gasping "OH, I knew it, how awful, I love it, I am a terrible person, hahaha."
Content: Squeaky Clean. Which is shocking and refreshing for a story about a married couple. Then again, our little lovebirds are still adjusting to the "complete strangers suddenly in an arranged marriage" and they are more interested in building a relationship of trust and friendship with sweet acts of affection and some tender kisses rather than rushing things.
CANNOT WAIT FOR THE NEXT BOOK.
June 4, 2020
So. Much. Pain. 😭 BUT SO. SO. GOOD!!!
July 20, 2020
This is second in a fantasy series that has a unified through-line. So read in order.
This had a lot of the pattern of the first, only with Farrendel in Essie's kingdom and dealing with her family instead of the other way around. So again, very domestic in nature with lots of relationship building (familial as well as the rest of the kingdom) and accommodating changes in interesting ways. And I was all down with that, particularly with Essie's family. They were multi-dimensional, even as they were unified in their dedication to family and desire to integrate Farrendel into their fold. Which was very good.
And then the actiony bit hit and I wasn't as happy. Grayce doesn't handle it as well this time, needing some manipulation to let it happen and the consequences were much more dire while also isolating so that you didn't get the same loyalty-building effect as in the last book.
And then we end on a cliffhanger. This doesn't come up much any more because I've gotten cautious enough to sniff these abominations out, but I hate cliffhangers with the passion of a thousand suns. So this drops from the five stars I had been thinking of to 2. I'd go lower just to be punitive and because I'm still feeling raw about it. Fortunately, I have a superpower that lets me rewrite things in my head. So Essie and Farrendel are happy making lovely half-elven babies and figuring out how to bring their countries together in peace and harmony.
And yeah, I won't be picking up the third because I don't reward treachery with loyalty.
A note about Chaste: It's straining credulity a little at this point that Essie and Farrendel aren't doing the thing marriage is, you know, designed to allow for. I went along with it because they're cute and I didn't mind. I'll just add that to the bit in my head and we're all good, now.
This had a lot of the pattern of the first, only with Farrendel in Essie's kingdom and dealing with her family instead of the other way around. So again, very domestic in nature with lots of relationship building (familial as well as the rest of the kingdom) and accommodating changes in interesting ways. And I was all down with that, particularly with Essie's family. They were multi-dimensional, even as they were unified in their dedication to family and desire to integrate Farrendel into their fold. Which was very good.
And then the actiony bit hit and I wasn't as happy. Grayce doesn't handle it as well this time, needing some manipulation to let it happen and the consequences were much more dire while also isolating so that you didn't get the same loyalty-building effect as in the last book.
And then we end on a cliffhanger. This doesn't come up much any more because I've gotten cautious enough to sniff these abominations out, but I hate cliffhangers with the passion of a thousand suns. So this drops from the five stars I had been thinking of to 2. I'd go lower just to be punitive and because I'm still feeling raw about it. Fortunately, I have a superpower that lets me rewrite things in my head. So Essie and Farrendel are happy making lovely half-elven babies and figuring out how to bring their countries together in peace and harmony.
And yeah, I won't be picking up the third because I don't reward treachery with loyalty.
A note about Chaste: It's straining credulity a little at this point that Essie and Farrendel aren't doing the thing marriage is, you know, designed to allow for. I went along with it because they're cute and I didn't mind. I'll just add that to the bit in my head and we're all good, now.
April 27, 2020
GAH.
GAHHHHHHHH.
FLAMIN’ HECK.
Tara, I may have to (Lovingly) sue you for emotional damages.
This book was very healing for me with the beautiful portrayal of familial love. Essie and Farrendel are precious and most be protected.
And I need book 3 STAT.
GAHHHHHHHH.
FLAMIN’ HECK.
Tara, I may have to (Lovingly) sue you for emotional damages.
This book was very healing for me with the beautiful portrayal of familial love. Essie and Farrendel are precious and most be protected.
And I need book 3 STAT.
June 17, 2020
Ahahahahahahahahaha this series is catnip.
Yes, it's the fluffiest of all possible hurt/comfort (mostly comfort) arranged-marriage elf torture romances! featuring two cinnamon rolls mostly just learning about each other's different cultures and being mutually supportive! It's tropey! It's ridiculously Soft! It's squeaky clean but not sanitised! I love it an embarrassing amount!
More seriously: I had VERY few good romance novels to read for most of my life. The choice seemed to be between smut on the one hand, and on the other, vintage romances which despite being "clean" usually weren't very healthy in other ways, either, especially when it came to the controlling, toxic male leads and the wilting, infantilised heroines. So, I can't tell you how great it is to read a romance novel that has none of those things. I mean, who knew you could actually write a tortured hero who was a cinnamon roll instead of a jerk? This book is so wholesome, and after that ending () I couldn't believe how lucky I was to be alive right now.
Yes, it's the fluffiest of all possible hurt/comfort (mostly comfort) arranged-marriage elf torture romances! featuring two cinnamon rolls mostly just learning about each other's different cultures and being mutually supportive! It's tropey! It's ridiculously Soft! It's squeaky clean but not sanitised! I love it an embarrassing amount!
More seriously: I had VERY few good romance novels to read for most of my life. The choice seemed to be between smut on the one hand, and on the other, vintage romances which despite being "clean" usually weren't very healthy in other ways, either, especially when it came to the controlling, toxic male leads and the wilting, infantilised heroines. So, I can't tell you how great it is to read a romance novel that has none of those things. I mean, who knew you could actually write a tortured hero who was a cinnamon roll instead of a jerk? This book is so wholesome, and after that ending () I couldn't believe how lucky I was to be alive right now.
April 23, 2020
Ugh well excuse me--
This ended too soon and now I'm too excited for the third book 😐 I'll never have enough of Essie and Farrendel and family!
This ended too soon and now I'm too excited for the third book 😐 I'll never have enough of Essie and Farrendel and family!
November 7, 2022
This book carries on the amazing cinnamon roll of a saga that began in Fierce Heart. The stakes are raised and we meet lots of new characters who stole my heart and are bound to steal yours. On the other hand, this book ends on a heart-wrenching cliffhanger. It does not satisfy as Fierce Heart did. Definitely would recommend, but don't read this book unless you have the third one on hand! I'm dying right now!!!!
November 16, 2024
HOW DARE IT END THIS WAY!!!!! 😭😭 *runs off to immediately read Death Wind*
*races back days later to write the-probably-not-going-to-be-very-cohesive-fangirl-squealing review*
What a ride, oh my goodness!!!! I will admit the beginning felt a bit stiff and “tight” like the walls were too close and things weren’t exactly fitting atmosphere wise, until I realized a good chunk of the way in that it was SUPPOSED to feel like that since Essie and Farrendel on different levels weren’t feeling well adjusted and like they fit into Escarland and all the stone and close corridors. It wasn’t until almost halfway through when everyone is embraced as family that the “closeness” vanished to be replaced by openness and warm, happy vibes, and it was so good and so well written! I loved it! (once I realized what was going on, that is, lol)
Essie and Farrendel are THE CUTEST and I love them both to death!!! 🥰😍🥰😍 Essie’s family, and especially her brothers, are amazing and when they adopt Farrendel and give him all the love and support he so desperately needed my heart swelled to bursting; gosh, I love this family! They are the best for Farrendel and seeing him open up to them was so so good and amazing.
The intrigue and threat of war and traitors is so real though which brings me back to that epic ending where I wanted to punch a Certain Person in the face while also cry at how that cliffhanger went and made me SUPER glad I wasn’t waiting for Death Wind to release like so many others did (guess there is something to waiting so long the whole series is published before you even start it, haha). So highly recommend having Death Wind on hand before starting this one!
I love this book and these characters so much! Highly recommend this series!
‼️Content‼️
TRIGGER WARNING: a character suffers from nightmares and PTSD
Violence: mentions of a past war and the loved ones lost in it; a character was tortured in the past (not detailed); fighting with weapons and magic (not detailed); injuries and blood (not detailed)
Sexual: a wife notices and admires her husband’s muscles and chest (in a sweet, innocent way); kissing (not detailed); a mild suggestive hint
Drugs/Alcohol: characters are knocked out with a chemical
Other: magic; magical abilities and races; a character suffers from nightmares and PTSD; a character is illegitimate; characters are kidnapped/chained up/imprisoned
*races back days later to write the-probably-not-going-to-be-very-cohesive-fangirl-squealing review*
What a ride, oh my goodness!!!! I will admit the beginning felt a bit stiff and “tight” like the walls were too close and things weren’t exactly fitting atmosphere wise, until I realized a good chunk of the way in that it was SUPPOSED to feel like that since Essie and Farrendel on different levels weren’t feeling well adjusted and like they fit into Escarland and all the stone and close corridors. It wasn’t until almost halfway through when everyone is embraced as family that the “closeness” vanished to be replaced by openness and warm, happy vibes, and it was so good and so well written! I loved it! (once I realized what was going on, that is, lol)
Essie and Farrendel are THE CUTEST and I love them both to death!!! 🥰😍🥰😍 Essie’s family, and especially her brothers, are amazing and when they adopt Farrendel and give him all the love and support he so desperately needed my heart swelled to bursting; gosh, I love this family! They are the best for Farrendel and seeing him open up to them was so so good and amazing.
The intrigue and threat of war and traitors is so real though which brings me back to that epic ending where I wanted to punch a Certain Person in the face while also cry at how that cliffhanger went and made me SUPER glad I wasn’t waiting for Death Wind to release like so many others did (guess there is something to waiting so long the whole series is published before you even start it, haha). So highly recommend having Death Wind on hand before starting this one!
I love this book and these characters so much! Highly recommend this series!
‼️Content‼️
TRIGGER WARNING: a character suffers from nightmares and PTSD
Violence: mentions of a past war and the loved ones lost in it; a character was tortured in the past (not detailed); fighting with weapons and magic (not detailed); injuries and blood (not detailed)
Sexual: a wife notices and admires her husband’s muscles and chest (in a sweet, innocent way); kissing (not detailed); a mild suggestive hint
Drugs/Alcohol: characters are knocked out with a chemical
Other: magic; magical abilities and races; a character suffers from nightmares and PTSD; a character is illegitimate; characters are kidnapped/chained up/imprisoned
November 10, 2022
Re-read: They're precious beans. On re-read, there are lines that basically say "this is what is going to happen" that I didn't notice the first time and on re-read are CRUEL. 😆 This one mostly sets up the next book, but the characterizations are so good.
---
Good fun and feels
Essie and Farrendel are cuter than is legal and that's just facts.
I have quibbles including some pacing unevenness and overkill on the "Previously on Elven Alliance" recap at the beginning 😉, but overall, this was adorable and touching and things got very crazy at the end and I'm more interested in reading the next book and getting this mess sorted out than writing a lengthy review. 😂😉
---
Good fun and feels
Essie and Farrendel are cuter than is legal and that's just facts.
I have quibbles including some pacing unevenness and overkill on the "Previously on Elven Alliance" recap at the beginning 😉, but overall, this was adorable and touching and things got very crazy at the end and I'm more interested in reading the next book and getting this mess sorted out than writing a lengthy review. 😂😉
October 10, 2025
No major spoilers(I think)
So in the last one, the main girl, Essie, gave up everything. Her home, her culture, and her family for a marriage alliance between her kingdom and the elven kingdom. The guy she married, Farrendel, is the elves top warrior dude and a prince to boot. In this book, Essie and Farrendel are going to Essie’s kingdom for a visit. What I love is the Farrendel is so determined that Essie is happy and gets to spend time with her family that he’s willing to deal with physical and mental pain from something that caused him intense pain in the past, but what I love more, is how Essie responds to it. It is just such a wonderful example of a relationship and how they both give of themselves to support the other person and do it whole heartedly. I LOVE Essie’s family!!!!!! They are so amazing and so protective of her! And how they treat Farrendel, a bit rocky at first but then! Amazing! My favorite scene has to be the campfire scene! Tho I disagree, coffee is far superior to hot chocolate! The ending! The next book is needed immediately! There is a big twist at the end and it ends with a MAJOR cliffhanger! Again, clean, couple of kisses, more than the last one because they have grown in their relationship. Also there is some death and blood, nothing too major but sensitive people might want to be wary. But again, I love this book!!! Highly recommended!! Now on the next one!
So in the last one, the main girl, Essie, gave up everything. Her home, her culture, and her family for a marriage alliance between her kingdom and the elven kingdom. The guy she married, Farrendel, is the elves top warrior dude and a prince to boot. In this book, Essie and Farrendel are going to Essie’s kingdom for a visit. What I love is the Farrendel is so determined that Essie is happy and gets to spend time with her family that he’s willing to deal with physical and mental pain from something that caused him intense pain in the past, but what I love more, is how Essie responds to it. It is just such a wonderful example of a relationship and how they both give of themselves to support the other person and do it whole heartedly. I LOVE Essie’s family!!!!!! They are so amazing and so protective of her! And how they treat Farrendel, a bit rocky at first but then! Amazing! My favorite scene has to be the campfire scene! Tho I disagree, coffee is far superior to hot chocolate! The ending! The next book is needed immediately! There is a big twist at the end and it ends with a MAJOR cliffhanger! Again, clean, couple of kisses, more than the last one because they have grown in their relationship. Also there is some death and blood, nothing too major but sensitive people might want to be wary. But again, I love this book!!! Highly recommended!! Now on the next one!
October 26, 2023
I adore this mixed elven-and-human family so, so much. Essie’s family was amazing, and seeing Farrendel getting some obvious family love and support was fantastic.
Essie and Farrendel’s love for each other is still just as beautiful as ever. The plot is still simple, but there are enough intriguing mysteries to keep the reader invested. I still love the worldbuilding, and it was wonderful to see more details of the human cultures in this world (and Farrendel’s reactions to certain human traditions, like shaking hands). The writing and pacing are great, save a few phrases that are repeated too much.
This is such a refreshing series: almost no content issues, winsome characters, and unique worldbuilding. I love it so much.
Content: kissing between married couples, mild violence, one mildly suggestive comment
Essie and Farrendel’s love for each other is still just as beautiful as ever. The plot is still simple, but there are enough intriguing mysteries to keep the reader invested. I still love the worldbuilding, and it was wonderful to see more details of the human cultures in this world (and Farrendel’s reactions to certain human traditions, like shaking hands). The writing and pacing are great, save a few phrases that are repeated too much.
This is such a refreshing series: almost no content issues, winsome characters, and unique worldbuilding. I love it so much.
Content: kissing between married couples, mild violence, one mildly suggestive comment
June 4, 2021
I really enjoyed this and listened to the audio in just over a day.
Just so you know, it's a doozy of a cliffhanger at the end!
This was a little bit of a reversal in that, where the first book has Essie dropped into the Elven world with no time to prepare and lots of bigotry to deal with. Now we have Ferendell visiting the Human world and learning how to get along with Essie's brothers. If anything the bigotry is worse in the human realm because Humans are more violent about it.
SO the story picks up just where it left off in book one. Essie and Ferendell travel with his younger sister to talk to Essie's brothers and track down the traitors responsible for selling guns to the Trolls.
This story had more action than the first one and ends on a huge cliffhanger. Although some of the intrigue was pretty obvious, not all of it was.
Again, there's no sex, just a little kissing. I found that a bit hard to believe, but it has only been a few weeks since they married... Hmmm. I guess maybe it's an Elven thing. They do seem to be a bit stodgy. Perhaps he's a virgin too?
Anyways... off to the next book.
Just so you know, it's a doozy of a cliffhanger at the end!
This was a little bit of a reversal in that, where the first book has Essie dropped into the Elven world with no time to prepare and lots of bigotry to deal with. Now we have Ferendell visiting the Human world and learning how to get along with Essie's brothers. If anything the bigotry is worse in the human realm because Humans are more violent about it.
SO the story picks up just where it left off in book one. Essie and Ferendell travel with his younger sister to talk to Essie's brothers and track down the traitors responsible for selling guns to the Trolls.
This story had more action than the first one and ends on a huge cliffhanger. Although some of the intrigue was pretty obvious, not all of it was.
Again, there's no sex, just a little kissing. I found that a bit hard to believe, but it has only been a few weeks since they married... Hmmm. I guess maybe it's an Elven thing. They do seem to be a bit stodgy. Perhaps he's a virgin too?
Anyways... off to the next book.
September 20, 2020
Wow to this sequel, just so good. It's a TRUE challenge for the sequel to be just as GOOD as the first book, but Grayce REALLY does it here! Farrendel and his sister travel to Essie's kingdom to report on the weapons (used in an ambush against them) to Essie's brothers.
LOVED every scene with Farrendel and Essie's brothers together!!
The plot was so much more precious in this sequel because we get to experience the vulnerable side of Farrendel as he gets to know the people and family of Essie's kingdom. MAN I wanted some hot chocolate after reading this!!! It was also wonderful seeing how in tune Essie and Farrendel are to one another and how close they are getting as a couple.
Grayce is SO descriptive of the scenes as if she is THERE painting every detail. I seriously wonder what places in real life she explored to be so on point with each situation...even with the accuracy of describing the cannon balls the brothers did in the lake!!
The end TRULY took me by surprise and I was stunned to learn who the traitors were, but so well written. This entire series should be read together so the reader doesn't miss a beat, I can't turn the pages fast enough on my kindle. Loving this series and its characters :)
LOVED every scene with Farrendel and Essie's brothers together!!
The plot was so much more precious in this sequel because we get to experience the vulnerable side of Farrendel as he gets to know the people and family of Essie's kingdom. MAN I wanted some hot chocolate after reading this!!! It was also wonderful seeing how in tune Essie and Farrendel are to one another and how close they are getting as a couple.
Grayce is SO descriptive of the scenes as if she is THERE painting every detail. I seriously wonder what places in real life she explored to be so on point with each situation...even with the accuracy of describing the cannon balls the brothers did in the lake!!
The end TRULY took me by surprise and I was stunned to learn who the traitors were, but so well written. This entire series should be read together so the reader doesn't miss a beat, I can't turn the pages fast enough on my kindle. Loving this series and its characters :)
May 22, 2023
(Disclaimer: I copyedited this, but I legitimately adored it. 💚 It's SO good!)
May 21, 2023
If Fierce Heart was great, then this book was perfect. It had all the great aspects of Fierce Heart, such as the gentle romance and steady worldbuilding and also had added extra aspects on top of that which really pushed it into that 5 star band.
The inclusion of the male love interest Farrendel’s perspective, if only for a few chapters, was a stroke of genius. It was a fantastic way of surprising the reader as before this book, the only perspective shown was the protagonist Essie’s. It was also a nice surprise to see that Farrendel actually had a personality. His carefully curated silent reactions weren’t the extent of his thoughts and so including his perspective helped to flesh out his character more. It also helped to deepen the romance between him and the protagonist and it made their relationship feel less one sided than it previously did.
The protagonist returning to her home turf really changed the tone of the story. There was less exploration of the setting yet somehow more world building through more political explorations, perhaps because the backdrop of the war was more apparent in this book than in the last. There was also less uncertainty from the protagonist because she was used to her surroundings and that made the tone of the narrative more comfortable which furthered the romantic cosiness of the story at times.
The plot itself seemed less repetitive and the human characters were more fun to follow here because they were more expressive than the elf characters of Fierce Heart. The ending was shocking, much like Fierce Heart’s was, but this book had the advantage of a very impactful cliffhanger ending, as well.
Any way you slice it, this book was superior to Fierce Heart. And if that’s any indication of the calibre of books that are coming next, it definitely bodes well for Death Wind!
The inclusion of the male love interest Farrendel’s perspective, if only for a few chapters, was a stroke of genius. It was a fantastic way of surprising the reader as before this book, the only perspective shown was the protagonist Essie’s. It was also a nice surprise to see that Farrendel actually had a personality. His carefully curated silent reactions weren’t the extent of his thoughts and so including his perspective helped to flesh out his character more. It also helped to deepen the romance between him and the protagonist and it made their relationship feel less one sided than it previously did.
The protagonist returning to her home turf really changed the tone of the story. There was less exploration of the setting yet somehow more world building through more political explorations, perhaps because the backdrop of the war was more apparent in this book than in the last. There was also less uncertainty from the protagonist because she was used to her surroundings and that made the tone of the narrative more comfortable which furthered the romantic cosiness of the story at times.
The plot itself seemed less repetitive and the human characters were more fun to follow here because they were more expressive than the elf characters of Fierce Heart. The ending was shocking, much like Fierce Heart’s was, but this book had the advantage of a very impactful cliffhanger ending, as well.
Any way you slice it, this book was superior to Fierce Heart. And if that’s any indication of the calibre of books that are coming next, it definitely bodes well for Death Wind!
November 22, 2024
Ahhhhh the cliffhanger 😱🙈😬
The story continues right at where the first book left off, no time passed at all. I loved seeing Essie and Ferrendel's relationship grow and Ferrendel being introduced more to the human world.
Content: PTSD, magic
Christian faith rating: 0/3 clean secular fiction, although the couple is married, they don't do anything more than kiss
The story continues right at where the first book left off, no time passed at all. I loved seeing Essie and Ferrendel's relationship grow and Ferrendel being introduced more to the human world.
Content: PTSD, magic
Christian faith rating: 0/3 clean secular fiction, although the couple is married, they don't do anything more than kiss
October 3, 2020
This series is getting better and better!
There were many moments that I enjoyed so much like hero bonding with his brother in laws, exploring and meeting heroine country and family respectively, hero’s shy courting, the spectacular action scenes and finally the revelation of the traitors.
I loved all the characters in story, they all contributed perfectly.
Writing was so good. And I can’t wait for the heroine to rescue the hero in the next book.
Safe and recommended.
There were many moments that I enjoyed so much like hero bonding with his brother in laws, exploring and meeting heroine country and family respectively, hero’s shy courting, the spectacular action scenes and finally the revelation of the traitors.
I loved all the characters in story, they all contributed perfectly.
Writing was so good. And I can’t wait for the heroine to rescue the hero in the next book.
Safe and recommended.
July 1, 2020
In book two Princess Elspeth (Essie) of Escarland and elf Prince/warrior Farrendel of Tarenhiel, grow closer, the marriage helping maintain peace between their two nations, but trouble and danger is brewing, traitors laying the ground to destroy the peace accord struck, and if Essie and Farrendel get hurt in the process - well there are some who would be more than pleased with that outcome.
An easy and light read, even with the some of the fighting and betrayal. I really like the fact that Essie is no simpering miss.
I enjoyed seeing Farrendel unfurl the more he interacted with her family, the sense of belonging he begins to feel was lovely.
Still super slow burn.
Acquired via KU.
An easy and light read, even with the some of the fighting and betrayal. I really like the fact that Essie is no simpering miss.
I enjoyed seeing Farrendel unfurl the more he interacted with her family, the sense of belonging he begins to feel was lovely.
Still super slow burn.
Acquired via KU.
December 23, 2024
That ending was so abrupt 😭!! I was thinking of reading something else before continuing on in the series , but now I need to know !!!!
November 27, 2021
5 stars // read November 2021
heartwarming fluffiness and family bonding moments + war! traitors! explosions!
a fantastic follow-up to Fierce Heart that (fair warning) ends on somewhat of a cliffhanger… but the first three books in the series are 99c each for a few more days 😉
heartwarming fluffiness and family bonding moments + war! traitors! explosions!
a fantastic follow-up to Fierce Heart that (fair warning) ends on somewhat of a cliffhanger… but the first three books in the series are 99c each for a few more days 😉
February 5, 2024
3.5 Stars ✨
I love how wholesome and sweet this series is. In the first book, the main character got on my nerves a bit, she’s super chatty and asks a million questions. As the story progresses though, she’s definitely growing on me .
I love how wholesome and sweet this series is. In the first book, the main character got on my nerves a bit, she’s super chatty and asks a million questions. As the story progresses though, she’s definitely growing on me .
June 8, 2020
Ha...ha...ha...
Positives: Character relationship progression was good. Maybe a bit clunky at times but definitely natural and well. Love the focus on wider relationships as well as the marriage. As for characterization and plot, the former with the introduction of new people was well done and the latter was....you know? I won't be saying anything coherent about the plot so let's just say it was also well done.
Negatives: Not sure if this is my lack of sleep talking but the writing at times felt rough. Not bad rough but rough. There may have been a few awkward moments but it worked well overall! (I am aware I'm overusing "well")
Opinion: *SCREECHING AND WEEPING* I THOUGHT FROM THE LAST IT WAS GOING TO BE MORE FLUFF BUT, CLIFFHANGERS AND MAGIC, THIS WAS NOT. I'm glad the main plot wasn't the romance, though it was given enough care. Also, Essie's brothers were just...amazing. And even Jalissa was done so well...I am so glad the main focus is between relationships between, well, everyone, though. And they MOVE the plot along, as well.
I can't think of more compliments to give but MAY I JUST SAY that this is one of those few rare books that ACTUALLY shows a good healthy *marriage*. I have not read much modern fiction about a married couple taking the spotlight...as if all adventure stops there???? I mean, yes, it probably has to do with that marriage ending that was so ingrained into literature but I appreciate this spotlighting of married couples.
Okay...I'm done rambling. Read the books!! They're fun! And...yes. F U N
Content: Clean! Unless you find fleeting thoughts of having kids unclean, which I think is unlikely...
Positives: Character relationship progression was good. Maybe a bit clunky at times but definitely natural and well. Love the focus on wider relationships as well as the marriage. As for characterization and plot, the former with the introduction of new people was well done and the latter was....you know? I won't be saying anything coherent about the plot so let's just say it was also well done.
Negatives: Not sure if this is my lack of sleep talking but the writing at times felt rough. Not bad rough but rough. There may have been a few awkward moments but it worked well overall! (I am aware I'm overusing "well")
Opinion: *SCREECHING AND WEEPING* I THOUGHT FROM THE LAST IT WAS GOING TO BE MORE FLUFF BUT, CLIFFHANGERS AND MAGIC, THIS WAS NOT. I'm glad the main plot wasn't the romance, though it was given enough care. Also, Essie's brothers were just...amazing. And even Jalissa was done so well...I am so glad the main focus is between relationships between, well, everyone, though. And they MOVE the plot along, as well.
I can't think of more compliments to give but MAY I JUST SAY that this is one of those few rare books that ACTUALLY shows a good healthy *marriage*. I have not read much modern fiction about a married couple taking the spotlight...as if all adventure stops there???? I mean, yes, it probably has to do with that marriage ending that was so ingrained into literature but I appreciate this spotlighting of married couples.
Okay...I'm done rambling. Read the books!! They're fun! And...yes. F U N
Content: Clean! Unless you find fleeting thoughts of having kids unclean, which I think is unlikely...
May 2, 2020
When the first paragraph of Chapter 1 makes yet another mention of the fabulousness of elven hair, shampoo, and conditioner, I rolled my eyes. In book 1, the magical properties of elven hair, shampoo, and conditioner was mentioned often. Practically every 3 or 4 chapters.
I know I’m nitpicking but I got turned off.
There’s also a sort of plodding predictability about the plot. Which I don’t really mind. But something about the story and the MC’s failed to capture any enthusiasm/interest from me. I feel like they lack fire and I wish both MC’s were more snarky. (They’re not.)
There’s not enough humor or levity in the story. It’s all very serious and not really my thing. Sorry, but I’m not going to pick up any succeeding books.
I know I’m nitpicking but I got turned off.
There’s also a sort of plodding predictability about the plot. Which I don’t really mind. But something about the story and the MC’s failed to capture any enthusiasm/interest from me. I feel like they lack fire and I wish both MC’s were more snarky. (They’re not.)
There’s not enough humor or levity in the story. It’s all very serious and not really my thing. Sorry, but I’m not going to pick up any succeeding books.
November 9, 2025
Yes... I did just read this whole book in less than a day...
War Bound by Tara Grayce
See full series content list in book: Elf Prince
Rating: 5 stars
Thoughts:
I like how in the second book it avoids the info dump of what happened in the previous books but still has it with her musing upon topics that were revealed in the previous book.
I love the sibling bond... And the bantering.... And the protectiveness... It's just so so fun and nice!
The growing bond between Essie and Farrendel is also amazing!
Favorite:
character Edmund
part: When the brothers have a 'brother day'
quote: Clasp his hand? That was highly unsanitary. Farrendel had no idea where Edmund had been or when he had last washed his hands. It was a wonder humans as a race had endured this long, if they had no compunction against spreading diseases with every stranger they greeted.
Bible Verse:
Psalm 139:23-24 KJV
[23] Search me, O God, and know my heart: Try me, and know my thoughts: [24] And see if there be any wicked way in me, And lead me in the way everlasting.
Part of a Series:
Book two in a multi book series
Synopsis:
Marriage to an elf is complicated…especially bringing him home to meet the family.
Princess Elspeth of Escarland married the elf prince and achieved peace between the elves and her human people. But after a recent ambush by the trolls, it is clear the trolls are trying to start a war between the elves and humans once again. To keep their peoples at peace, Essie and Farrendel travel to meet Essie’s family and negotiate peace.
Yet in Escarland, not everyone is happy with peace. Traitors lurk in both Escarland and Tarenhiel, and it will be up to Essie and Farrendel to flush them out. The consequences of failure might be more personal and deadly than they fear.
War Bound by Tara Grayce
See full series content list in book: Elf Prince
Rating: 5 stars
Thoughts:
I like how in the second book it avoids the info dump of what happened in the previous books but still has it with her musing upon topics that were revealed in the previous book.
I love the sibling bond... And the bantering.... And the protectiveness... It's just so so fun and nice!
The growing bond between Essie and Farrendel is also amazing!
Favorite:
character Edmund
part: When the brothers have a 'brother day'
quote: Clasp his hand? That was highly unsanitary. Farrendel had no idea where Edmund had been or when he had last washed his hands. It was a wonder humans as a race had endured this long, if they had no compunction against spreading diseases with every stranger they greeted.
Bible Verse:
Psalm 139:23-24 KJV
[23] Search me, O God, and know my heart: Try me, and know my thoughts: [24] And see if there be any wicked way in me, And lead me in the way everlasting.
Part of a Series:
Book two in a multi book series
Synopsis:
Marriage to an elf is complicated…especially bringing him home to meet the family.
Princess Elspeth of Escarland married the elf prince and achieved peace between the elves and her human people. But after a recent ambush by the trolls, it is clear the trolls are trying to start a war between the elves and humans once again. To keep their peoples at peace, Essie and Farrendel travel to meet Essie’s family and negotiate peace.
Yet in Escarland, not everyone is happy with peace. Traitors lurk in both Escarland and Tarenhiel, and it will be up to Essie and Farrendel to flush them out. The consequences of failure might be more personal and deadly than they fear.
October 10, 2023
This installment was another enjoyable read. The books so far have been predictable. I don’t usually guess “whodunnit” until the author reveals it, but I knew in the very beginning who the elven traitor was, and was pretty sure who one of the traitors from Escarland was. These are simple, but enjoyable stories, which have the added benefit of being quite clean.
April 22, 2020
2.5 stars.
While I enjoyed this for the most part, there was a decent amount of redundancy that was boring. The H's family is also pretty awful still. I guess given the glacial pace at which the relationship between the MCs is developing, maybe I shouldn't have high hopes that the H's family will stop loathing her in this book. Also, the fact that made me a little unhappy. I'm sorry. I'm not in a head space that can enjoy that right now. However, I'm still looking foward to seeing how the author resolves everything.
While I enjoyed this for the most part, there was a decent amount of redundancy that was boring. The H's family is also pretty awful still. I guess given the glacial pace at which the relationship between the MCs is developing, maybe I shouldn't have high hopes that the H's family will stop loathing her in this book. Also, the fact that made me a little unhappy. I'm sorry. I'm not in a head space that can enjoy that right now. However, I'm still looking foward to seeing how the author resolves everything.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 4, 2023
Um. Cliffhanger ending? Am I never going to get a full night of sleep until I finish the whole series?
I've read book one and two of this series in under 48 hours around a full-time work schedule and an evening engagement. That should tell you all you need to know. If you want more, refer to my review of Fierce Heart (book one).
In all likelihood, I'll be back tomorrow with a review of book three.
I've read book one and two of this series in under 48 hours around a full-time work schedule and an evening engagement. That should tell you all you need to know. If you want more, refer to my review of Fierce Heart (book one).
In all likelihood, I'll be back tomorrow with a review of book three.
June 27, 2020
Two things: One, Farrendel is really cute when he learns how to tease, and two, Essie's family is as fantastic as she is.
I have to confess, I got a little tired of the number of times magical elf hair was referenced in this one. ;P Although, I get it, Essie's obsessed...
Like the first book, an easy read. Appreciated the further deepening of the relationship and how honestly wholesome and healthy the romance is. The pace picked up at the end with a couple heart-stopping twists that I, an oblivious reader, did not see coming till 0.5 seconds before. And UMMM?!?? THAT ENDING? WHY IS THE THIRD BOOK NOT OUT YET?
^ anxiously waiting to find out what happens to my babies.
I have to confess, I got a little tired of the number of times magical elf hair was referenced in this one. ;P Although, I get it, Essie's obsessed...
Like the first book, an easy read. Appreciated the further deepening of the relationship and how honestly wholesome and healthy the romance is. The pace picked up at the end with a couple heart-stopping twists that I, an oblivious reader, did not see coming till 0.5 seconds before. And UMMM?!?? THAT ENDING? WHY IS THE THIRD BOOK NOT OUT YET?
^ anxiously waiting to find out what happens to my babies.
June 22, 2020
Boring til 80% then a cliffhanger!?? Really???
i liked the first book in this series but something went terribly wrong with this book . It was soooo slow moving. Boring almost. Finally @ 80% there was finally some actual plot to this clusterf#ck of a book only to abruptly end with a poorly placed cliffhanger. Such a waste of my time. Very disappointed. I won't continue this series and will avoid this writer in the future.
i liked the first book in this series but something went terribly wrong with this book . It was soooo slow moving. Boring almost. Finally @ 80% there was finally some actual plot to this clusterf#ck of a book only to abruptly end with a poorly placed cliffhanger. Such a waste of my time. Very disappointed. I won't continue this series and will avoid this writer in the future.
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