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Wraith Kings #2
Eidolon
In a bid for more power, the Shadow Queen of Haradis has unleashed a malignant force into the world. Her son Brishen, younger prince of the Kai royal house, suddenly finds himself ruler of a kingdom blighted by a diseased darkness and on the brink of war. His human wife Ildiko must decide if she will give up the man she loves in order to secure his throne.
Three enemy kingdoms must unite to save each other, and a one-eyed, reluctant king must raise an army of the dead to defeat an army of the damned.
A tale of alliance and sacrifice.
Three enemy kingdoms must unite to save each other, and a one-eyed, reluctant king must raise an army of the dead to defeat an army of the damned.
A tale of alliance and sacrifice.
292 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 18, 2016
About the author
Grace Draven
47 books7,388 followersI'm an author and Louisiana native living in Texas with my husband, three smalls and a big doofus dog. I have lived in Spain, hiked the Teton Mountains, honeymooned in Scotland, ridden in competition rodeo and am the great great granddaughter of a Nicaraguan president. I also hate doing laundry and refuse to iron anything.
I've loved storytelling since forever. I published my first short story with Amber Quill Press and have since written several other tales. A love of the bad boy in fiction always inspires me.
I've loved storytelling since forever. I published my first short story with Amber Quill Press and have since written several other tales. A love of the bad boy in fiction always inspires me.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,012 reviews
October 2, 2017
5 You’re my sanctuary, my refuge Stars
********Spoilers*********
“You already are, wife. You’re my sanctuary, my refuge.”-Brishen
Eidolon blew me away! I loved it more than book 1 and that is saying something. Where book 1 was slower and had very little action, angst, and drama; book 2 was fast pace, and full to the brim of magic, and action. Brishen really shined in this book. He was so strong and stead fast in this love for his wife, were as Ildiko was going to give him up for duty he wasn't give her up. There was tons of drama in this book as Brishen's mother the evil queen unleashed demons called the Galla on the world and they were killing everyone they came across. Poor Brishen was made King, as it was believed that his whole family was wiped out by demons.
“Do you love me, Ildiko?” He forced the words from a throat closed tight. She halted and gripped his hand harder, the crescents of her fingernails digging into his palm. “With everything I am, Brishen,” she said in a soft, fervent voice. “And for as long as I live. You must never doubt it.”-Brishen and Ildiko
Everyone is telling him not only did he have to stop the demons by dying and becoming the wraith king, and raising an army of the dead, they want him to give up his human wife, and marry a Kai woman that can give him an heir. This rough patch in their relationship almost tore my heart out. Both Brishen and Ildiko were dealing with so much, trying to stay strong all the while they were hurting deeply and in fear of losing each other.
I hated that Ildiko was willing to give up her husband so he could be king. I understand why and I could feel her pain but I do wish she would have fought for her love from the start. I love that Brishen wasn't having any of that shit. He was willing to give up the throne before he would give up his wife. He fought for his love and for his kingdom. Even with all the bumps in the road of their marriage in this book I still loved them as a couple. Their love felt real, deep, and raw.
“I can’t if you refuse to remain my wife. Will we not sacrifice enough for duty when this is done, Ildiko?” He was right. Here on this high place built by a vanished race who had left their magic and their malice behind them, she finally understood something profound. While duty was the price of privilege, duty nobly fulfilled deserved requital. For what her husband was about to do, he had earned the right to keep the wife he wanted. She cupped his face and pulled him down for a hard kiss. The brass studs on his brigandine pressed into her breasts and stomach as he held her tight and kissed her back, always passionate, always careful. They ended the kiss on a shared gasp. Ildiko stared into his face, once frightening, now beloved. “It’s more than enough,” she said. “I will challenge anyone, Elsods and Kai matriarchs alike, for the right to remain your wife. Even you, should you change your mind.”-Brishen and Ildiko
I really wished they could have had babies of their own, but I was glad that their love was enough either way. The plot of the Galla demons trying to wipe all life from the world, and Bristen and four other humans having to use magic to die an become wraith kings, raise dead to fight and seal the Galla back to were they came was awesome. It was Fantasy at its finest. Plus there was plenty of romance in the story to keep me happy. There was a side romance blooming with Anhuset and Serovek, even if Anhuset is prickly and tried to fight it. I seen that their book is next and I can't wait! I am loving this series and I can't wait to see what happens next!
“You’re a fine man, Brishen Khaskem.” “It’s hard work remaining worthy of you, Ildiko Khaskem.” “You’ve a velvet tongue.” “That’s what you said yesterday when I had my head between your—”-Ildiko and Brishen
********Spoilers*********
“You already are, wife. You’re my sanctuary, my refuge.”-Brishen
Eidolon blew me away! I loved it more than book 1 and that is saying something. Where book 1 was slower and had very little action, angst, and drama; book 2 was fast pace, and full to the brim of magic, and action. Brishen really shined in this book. He was so strong and stead fast in this love for his wife, were as Ildiko was going to give him up for duty he wasn't give her up. There was tons of drama in this book as Brishen's mother the evil queen unleashed demons called the Galla on the world and they were killing everyone they came across. Poor Brishen was made King, as it was believed that his whole family was wiped out by demons.
“Do you love me, Ildiko?” He forced the words from a throat closed tight. She halted and gripped his hand harder, the crescents of her fingernails digging into his palm. “With everything I am, Brishen,” she said in a soft, fervent voice. “And for as long as I live. You must never doubt it.”-Brishen and Ildiko
Everyone is telling him not only did he have to stop the demons by dying and becoming the wraith king, and raising an army of the dead, they want him to give up his human wife, and marry a Kai woman that can give him an heir. This rough patch in their relationship almost tore my heart out. Both Brishen and Ildiko were dealing with so much, trying to stay strong all the while they were hurting deeply and in fear of losing each other.
I hated that Ildiko was willing to give up her husband so he could be king. I understand why and I could feel her pain but I do wish she would have fought for her love from the start. I love that Brishen wasn't having any of that shit. He was willing to give up the throne before he would give up his wife. He fought for his love and for his kingdom. Even with all the bumps in the road of their marriage in this book I still loved them as a couple. Their love felt real, deep, and raw.
“I can’t if you refuse to remain my wife. Will we not sacrifice enough for duty when this is done, Ildiko?” He was right. Here on this high place built by a vanished race who had left their magic and their malice behind them, she finally understood something profound. While duty was the price of privilege, duty nobly fulfilled deserved requital. For what her husband was about to do, he had earned the right to keep the wife he wanted. She cupped his face and pulled him down for a hard kiss. The brass studs on his brigandine pressed into her breasts and stomach as he held her tight and kissed her back, always passionate, always careful. They ended the kiss on a shared gasp. Ildiko stared into his face, once frightening, now beloved. “It’s more than enough,” she said. “I will challenge anyone, Elsods and Kai matriarchs alike, for the right to remain your wife. Even you, should you change your mind.”-Brishen and Ildiko
I really wished they could have had babies of their own, but I was glad that their love was enough either way. The plot of the Galla demons trying to wipe all life from the world, and Bristen and four other humans having to use magic to die an become wraith kings, raise dead to fight and seal the Galla back to were they came was awesome. It was Fantasy at its finest. Plus there was plenty of romance in the story to keep me happy. There was a side romance blooming with Anhuset and Serovek, even if Anhuset is prickly and tried to fight it. I seen that their book is next and I can't wait! I am loving this series and I can't wait to see what happens next!
“You’re a fine man, Brishen Khaskem.” “It’s hard work remaining worthy of you, Ildiko Khaskem.” “You’ve a velvet tongue.” “That’s what you said yesterday when I had my head between your—”-Ildiko and Brishen
January 3, 2021
#1 Radiance — 4 Stars
#2 Eidolon — 4.5 Stars
Amazeballs!! It has everything I missed in the previous book. Goodness gracious, Brishen you are too precious for this world.
In this installment, Brishen and Ildiko are faced with a new set of challenges. Not only is their marriage put on the line, they must also unite forces with their sworn enemies in order to defeat an army of great evil that threatens to blanket their world in darkness.
“My dear, treacherous mother,” he breathed. “What have you done?”
This sequel is so much darker and more intense than the first book. And I absolutely loved it. It brings about a different feel to the series. Whilst before it was romance centered, this time we get to see more of the fantastical elements of the story.
The ferocity of the plot kept me on the edge of my seat. It honestly reminded me a tiny bit of the Throne of Glass series. The world building is magnificent. The pacing is excellent, and the writing is brilliant. Not to mention, we get a new POV in this book that helps broadens our understanding of what’s happening.
We get insights to existing as well as new characters. I’m nowhere near ready to part with Brishen and Ildiko, but I’m also really eager for Serovek and Anhuset to have a book of their own. We’ll get another human/Kai ‘interracial’ pairing to root for.
“I would have been content to live my life as just Brishen,” he whispered into her hair. “Who was loved by Ildiko.”
And of course, Brishen and Ildiko’s relationship in this book is just out of this world. It had me feeling emotional and on the brink of tears. Ildiko annoyed me quite a bit with her incessant practicality and sense of duty. Gah! They really have overcome so much, and my love for them has only grown after reading this.
This has certainly been a pretty wonderful journey. What started from a seemingly banal story of an arranged marriage between two royals born of two different races has remarkably evolved into a beautiful gut wrenching love story that defies all odds and is full of epic fantasy galore. I can only hope this series will continue to impress me in the future.
May 2, 2016
Who's excited?? BECAUSE I'M EXCITED!
----
Oh hell guys, Grace Draven did it again; she bestowed upon us a book that successfully had me floating on love, heartbreak, and evil-plot goodness. I won't spoil it for anyone, but Eidolon presents us readers with so much of the Brishen and Idilko we love by digging deeper into their lives and roles. Where does desire and duty meet? Love over duty? Responsibility before all?
We even get to see more of sha-Ahnuset and you guys know how much we love her ;)
Ahhh, just read it. Fantastic 5++ Stars
----
Oh hell guys, Grace Draven did it again; she bestowed upon us a book that successfully had me floating on love, heartbreak, and evil-plot goodness. I won't spoil it for anyone, but Eidolon presents us readers with so much of the Brishen and Idilko we love by digging deeper into their lives and roles. Where does desire and duty meet? Love over duty? Responsibility before all?
We even get to see more of sha-Ahnuset and you guys know how much we love her ;)
Ahhh, just read it. Fantastic 5++ Stars
November 14, 2020
“Privilege gives the crown its shine. Duty gives it its weight.”
When the evil Queen Secmis unleashes a horde of malignant demons into the world, the younger Kai prince Brishen needs to save the kingdom from falling prey to the darkness.
“The prince of no value has become the most coveted Kai in all of Bast-Haradis.”
To do so, he must unite three enemy kingdoms and lead an army of the dead, risking everything in the process, including his marriage.
He shook against her, burying his face in her neck. “Don’t leave me, Ildiko,” he implored. “The burden is only bearable because you’re here.”
Fast paced, action packed and a little scary in parts, Eidolon was a solid sequel to Radiance.
I just needed more romance because I'm trash for these two!!
Brishen + Ildiko = ❤️✨
“I would have been content to live my life as just Brishen,” he whispered into her hair. “Who was loved by Ildiko.”
So, where can I get my Brishen? 😍 🙈
When the evil Queen Secmis unleashes a horde of malignant demons into the world, the younger Kai prince Brishen needs to save the kingdom from falling prey to the darkness.
“The prince of no value has become the most coveted Kai in all of Bast-Haradis.”
To do so, he must unite three enemy kingdoms and lead an army of the dead, risking everything in the process, including his marriage.
He shook against her, burying his face in her neck. “Don’t leave me, Ildiko,” he implored. “The burden is only bearable because you’re here.”
Fast paced, action packed and a little scary in parts, Eidolon was a solid sequel to Radiance.
I just needed more romance because I'm trash for these two!!
Brishen + Ildiko = ❤️✨
“I would have been content to live my life as just Brishen,” he whispered into her hair. “Who was loved by Ildiko.”
So, where can I get my Brishen? 😍 🙈
November 22, 2018
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I'm not mad, I'm just disappointed - but I am very disappointed. What is this, the month of disappointing sequels? I just had a similar issue with THE QUEEN AND THE CURE, where I loved the first book, but the second book had a new cast of characters and an entirely different tone. It was like the author took everything I loved about the first book and trashed it. Part of what I loved about RADIANCE, for example, was the slow-burn romance that started from friendship and camaraderie, and ended up becoming a very deep and meaningful relationship borne of a comedy of errors as both the hero, Brishen, and the heroine, Ildiko, attempt to overcome the culture shock of being with the other.
In this book, Grace Draven wields the mighty hammer of angst. There are demons called galla taking over Bast-Haradis (which, funnily enough, is a similar plot to both THE BIRD AND THE SWORD (Volgar) and THRONE OF GLASS (Valg). Evil destructive demons seem to be a very popular plot point in unnecessary fantasy sequels (authors, take note).
We have a new character named Kirgipa who is literally the dullest dull who ever dulled. I skimmed over a lot of this book, but her part was so boring I didn't even bother reading it. Who is she? Don't know, don't care. As Mariah Carey once said, "I don't know her." Not that the Ildiko and Brishen passages are much better. Gone is the deep affection and understanding from the first book as they either (1) bang everywhere, all the time or (2) whine and moan about how they cannot be together, and how they are going to sacrifice themselves for (a) one another or (b) the kingdom, and oh great gods and goddesses, how can they possibly choose between love or the fate of a kingdom???!!
Meanwhile, I am sitting here and rolling my eyes.
So disappointing.
1.5 stars
January 26, 2022
4.5 Stars
Mel 🖤🐶🐺🐾
Mel 🖤🐶🐺🐾
May 10, 2016
THIS BOOK IS AMAZING. HANDS DOWN. AWESOMESAUCE.
There's swoon-worthy romance, wicked magic, and general baddassery. Really, I don't want to spoil anything so you all can enjoy what a solid book this was. From start to end, I could not put this down. And yes, it is that good.
GO READ IT NOW!
before read:
There's swoon-worthy romance, wicked magic, and general baddassery. Really, I don't want to spoil anything so you all can enjoy what a solid book this was. From start to end, I could not put this down. And yes, it is that good.
GO READ IT NOW!
before read:
August 16, 2016
** 4 "LOVELY SEQUEL" stars ! **
Since I absolutely loved Radiance (book 1), I couldn’t help myself and dived into book 2 right away to get back to one of my favorite couples ^_^
The world-building and plot :
I won’t say much about the story in this one or else I would be spoiling things for those who wish to start the series, but as I was expecting and to my delight, this second book focused much more on the fantasy aspect of the story ! The fantasy world thickened and the plot took a graver turn full of mesmerizing magic, numerous demons and evil wraiths as well as Wraith Kings. I found the world to be really unique, well thought out and quite entertaining !
However, I thought the author took too much time to finally bring out the big guns and show us finally some real action. To me, the first 60% of this book felt a bit too long, and I found it dragged a little because it revolved almost solely around politics, strategy and discussions and more discussions… And ultimately, it left me a bit bored during most of that part, with nothing much happening except planning.
The author going deeper into the fantasy plot also means she focused less deeply on the relationship between Ildiko and Brishen, not that it was absent, on the contrary, the romance still had a huge part in the story, it just wasn’t the main focus anymore and had lost some of its charm and magic I guess. Nevertheless, I found the new struggles the two MC are going through in this second book to be interesting due to the fact they were legit and realistic. Ildiko and Brishen still managed to make me feel their adoration and passion as well as their desperation for each other with their love and trust put at stake because of duty.
But fortunately, the last 30% of the story totally made up for the quite boring first half : things finally started to happen, it was really action-packed and full of angst ! Though I guess it was a bit rushed, especially considering the time they took to plan everything, but it was still very pleasant to read !
The characters :
Ildiko was still such a lovely female lead! I could feel how much she loves Brishen, how loyal she is to him, how she’s not just his lover but his partner, she’s his comfort , his strength when times are not easy for him. Brishen can count on her clever, resourceful, strong and fearless mind to help him make hard decisions. In this second book, Ildiko has to face the consequences of a marriage between a human and a Kai, and I loved how she was willing to sacrifice herself and her love for Brishen in order for him to accomplish his duty, but that in the end, she realized she would do anything to remain at Brishen’s side, and I was so proud of her for how she fought for Brishen ^^.
Brishen, oh Brishen ! He is such an amazing man! I’m just swooning over how much he adores his Ildiko, how much she’s everything to him now, how she became a shoulder for him to lean on when things become difficult. I loved how he put Ildiko before his duty, how he can’t conceive a life without her now. Brishen is so sweet, brave, loving, fearless and strong when it comes to saving his people !
They have obvious chemistry , knowing what the other is thinking just by looking in their eyes, they complete each other, and mostly I loved how when they fight, which rarely happens, they’re both willing to admit their faults and try to make things better.
I don’t really know what else to say about this series or its characters, I feel like I already said everything in my review of book 1. Overall, Brishen and Ildiko have become one of my favorite pairings, they’re really quite perfect for each other and together : their love is pure, passionate, and came out stronger through the struggles they faced in this second book.
P.S. : Now, I just can’t wait for book 3 which is going to be about a new couple : Serovek/Anhuset ! I’m so excited because I’m already loving their bickering, Serovek is really funny and flirty, and Anhuset really badass and stubborn, it’s going to be epic, I can feel it !
Since I absolutely loved Radiance (book 1), I couldn’t help myself and dived into book 2 right away to get back to one of my favorite couples ^_^
The world-building and plot :
I won’t say much about the story in this one or else I would be spoiling things for those who wish to start the series, but as I was expecting and to my delight, this second book focused much more on the fantasy aspect of the story ! The fantasy world thickened and the plot took a graver turn full of mesmerizing magic, numerous demons and evil wraiths as well as Wraith Kings. I found the world to be really unique, well thought out and quite entertaining !
However, I thought the author took too much time to finally bring out the big guns and show us finally some real action. To me, the first 60% of this book felt a bit too long, and I found it dragged a little because it revolved almost solely around politics, strategy and discussions and more discussions… And ultimately, it left me a bit bored during most of that part, with nothing much happening except planning.
The author going deeper into the fantasy plot also means she focused less deeply on the relationship between Ildiko and Brishen, not that it was absent, on the contrary, the romance still had a huge part in the story, it just wasn’t the main focus anymore and had lost some of its charm and magic I guess. Nevertheless, I found the new struggles the two MC are going through in this second book to be interesting due to the fact they were legit and realistic. Ildiko and Brishen still managed to make me feel their adoration and passion as well as their desperation for each other with their love and trust put at stake because of duty.
But fortunately, the last 30% of the story totally made up for the quite boring first half : things finally started to happen, it was really action-packed and full of angst ! Though I guess it was a bit rushed, especially considering the time they took to plan everything, but it was still very pleasant to read !
The characters :
Ildiko was still such a lovely female lead! I could feel how much she loves Brishen, how loyal she is to him, how she’s not just his lover but his partner, she’s his comfort , his strength when times are not easy for him. Brishen can count on her clever, resourceful, strong and fearless mind to help him make hard decisions. In this second book, Ildiko has to face the consequences of a marriage between a human and a Kai, and I loved how she was willing to sacrifice herself and her love for Brishen in order for him to accomplish his duty, but that in the end, she realized she would do anything to remain at Brishen’s side, and I was so proud of her for how she fought for Brishen ^^.
Brishen, oh Brishen ! He is such an amazing man! I’m just swooning over how much he adores his Ildiko, how much she’s everything to him now, how she became a shoulder for him to lean on when things become difficult. I loved how he put Ildiko before his duty, how he can’t conceive a life without her now. Brishen is so sweet, brave, loving, fearless and strong when it comes to saving his people !
They have obvious chemistry , knowing what the other is thinking just by looking in their eyes, they complete each other, and mostly I loved how when they fight, which rarely happens, they’re both willing to admit their faults and try to make things better.
I don’t really know what else to say about this series or its characters, I feel like I already said everything in my review of book 1. Overall, Brishen and Ildiko have become one of my favorite pairings, they’re really quite perfect for each other and together : their love is pure, passionate, and came out stronger through the struggles they faced in this second book.
P.S. : Now, I just can’t wait for book 3 which is going to be about a new couple : Serovek/Anhuset ! I’m so excited because I’m already loving their bickering, Serovek is really funny and flirty, and Anhuset really badass and stubborn, it’s going to be epic, I can feel it !
April 20, 2021
4.25 stars
After reading Radiance this year and falling completely in love, I knew I had to get to the sequel asap. I'm always a little anxious when the first book feels like perfection to me to read more. I'm happy to say that even though I didn't love this one quite as much as the first, it didn't disappoint. It was a great read and I was so happy to get more of Brishen and Ildiko.
There is a lot going on in this one and I loved the scenes between one of my favorite couples, but unfortunately, there was a lot of the book where the couple wasn't together. It was also just a bit predictable for me, but I still really enjoyed the growth in their relationship and how much they love and adore each other. Highly recommend all readers to check out Radiance if you haven't!
After reading Radiance this year and falling completely in love, I knew I had to get to the sequel asap. I'm always a little anxious when the first book feels like perfection to me to read more. I'm happy to say that even though I didn't love this one quite as much as the first, it didn't disappoint. It was a great read and I was so happy to get more of Brishen and Ildiko.
There is a lot going on in this one and I loved the scenes between one of my favorite couples, but unfortunately, there was a lot of the book where the couple wasn't together. It was also just a bit predictable for me, but I still really enjoyed the growth in their relationship and how much they love and adore each other. Highly recommend all readers to check out Radiance if you haven't!
Audio book source: Audible
Story Rating: 4.25 stars
Narrators: Gabrielle Baker
Narration Rating: 4 stars
Genre: Fantasy Romance
Length: 10 hours and 43 minutes
September 23, 2020
I already enjoyed Radiance but Eidolon just got better. This book was much scary and action-packed than the previous book.
After finishing both books I am confused that why I never heard about this series or the author before. This is such an underrated series that deserves more recognition. I definitely recommend this book.
After finishing both books I am confused that why I never heard about this series or the author before. This is such an underrated series that deserves more recognition. I definitely recommend this book.
October 1, 2017
3.5 Once Upon a Time an Eel fell in Love with a Mollusk Stars
Radiance was one of my favorite Romantasies of last year. So I was so excited to continue on in this world especially after that crazy ending.
I liked Eidolon well enough but it didn’t quite capture the same feelings I had for the first book. I think that had to do with the emotional turmoil in Brishen and Ildiko’s marriage. In Radiance we went from them being a friendly marriage of convenience to falling in love but in Eidolon we must deal with the drama of being torn apart in the aftermath of the destruction of Royal family.
I’ll just say that I totally adored Brishen and his undying allegiance to Ildiko even when she was totally messing up but trying to do the right thing for him and his people….it was angsty. Still we get a few moments that were more fun as Ildiko chases away annoying dignitaries and nobles with her strange human eyes and their ability to move independently.
This story focused a little more on the fantasy aspect and to save his people Brishen must die and lead an army of recently dead against their foes
This story was a bit darker and there were a lot of deaths along the way. A few characters I remembered from the first story but most were just fodder. I did enjoy the battle to save the land and a few peoples coming together to help. The magic section of the story was the most interesting to me plot wise.
Other than that the big highlight for me was actually the banter and possible romance that could be blooming between Anhuset and Serovek. Their banter was pretty great AND I’m super excited that they will be the main PoVs in the next book
I look forward to how Serovek plans to woo that warrior woman. I’m pretty sure the normal methods are not going to work at all.
Still overall I enjoyed the majority of the story. I figured out the solution to Brishen and Ildikos marital problem early on so while it was painful to watch them struggle I was pretty sure it would all turn out okay for them in the long run.
Overall if you are a fan of fantasy heavy on the romance this should be a good fit for you.
Radiance was one of my favorite Romantasies of last year. So I was so excited to continue on in this world especially after that crazy ending.
I liked Eidolon well enough but it didn’t quite capture the same feelings I had for the first book. I think that had to do with the emotional turmoil in Brishen and Ildiko’s marriage. In Radiance we went from them being a friendly marriage of convenience to falling in love but in Eidolon we must deal with the drama of being torn apart in the aftermath of the destruction of Royal family.
I’ll just say that I totally adored Brishen and his undying allegiance to Ildiko even when she was totally messing up but trying to do the right thing for him and his people….it was angsty. Still we get a few moments that were more fun as Ildiko chases away annoying dignitaries and nobles with her strange human eyes and their ability to move independently.
This story focused a little more on the fantasy aspect and to save his people Brishen must die and lead an army of recently dead against their foes
This story was a bit darker and there were a lot of deaths along the way. A few characters I remembered from the first story but most were just fodder. I did enjoy the battle to save the land and a few peoples coming together to help. The magic section of the story was the most interesting to me plot wise.
Other than that the big highlight for me was actually the banter and possible romance that could be blooming between Anhuset and Serovek. Their banter was pretty great AND I’m super excited that they will be the main PoVs in the next book
“Here,” he said. “The weakest spot.”
She huffed. “I doubt it, though I don’t think cutting off your head or your prick will help you become a Wraith King.”
Were this a less awful scenario, Ildiko might have laughed.
His mischievous grin promised a retort to put Anhuset’s back up, and he delivered. “When I return, you’ll share my bed, warrior woman, and be very grateful you didn’t slice off my prick.”
I look forward to how Serovek plans to woo that warrior woman. I’m pretty sure the normal methods are not going to work at all.
Still overall I enjoyed the majority of the story. I figured out the solution to Brishen and Ildikos marital problem early on so while it was painful to watch them struggle I was pretty sure it would all turn out okay for them in the long run.
Overall if you are a fan of fantasy heavy on the romance this should be a good fit for you.
October 15, 2017
Seriously, I need me a Brishen in my life! I'm crushing so hard on him right now.
To be honest, I'm conflicted as to what to rate it. I adore the main characters.. but didn't feel too invested in the plot. I cared... then began to grew less and less care for it. Or maybe that just has to do with the shitty mood I've been in. I wanted more of Brishen and Ildiko because I'm such trash for them, but I liked how their relationship was tested and their commitment to each other.
I needed more romance though. 🤷🏾♂️
Regardless, I'll probably reread these books again at some point.
To be honest, I'm conflicted as to what to rate it. I adore the main characters.. but didn't feel too invested in the plot. I cared... then began to grew less and less care for it. Or maybe that just has to do with the shitty mood I've been in. I wanted more of Brishen and Ildiko because I'm such trash for them, but I liked how their relationship was tested and their commitment to each other.
I needed more romance though. 🤷🏾♂️
Regardless, I'll probably reread these books again at some point.
April 15, 2016
Just finished Eidolon and was just as impressed as I was with Radiance although that first book was more of a romance and threats of a local type where this is a global "save the world" type plot.
I have to keep comparing the 2 books because it is a continuing story line but they are much different in many ways. In addition to the global nature of the threat, this is not as much of a romance as Radiance was since our pair of protagonists are already very familiar with each other (obviously) but the story while revolving around this global threat also has as a major subplot, this continuing romance and it's trials and tribulations. This emphasis on the love and romance adds depth to the main plot and without it would just be another sword and sorcery novel, but this enables it to be filled with tragedy and triumph to grab you on an emotional level.
While it has been over a year since I read Radiance, I remember it being a heartwarming story but Eidolon starts out with an extremely emotional beginning that will drive the whole book so don't plan to ease into this story, it throws you right into some emotionally wrenching stuff. I should point out you REALLY should not be reading this without having read Radiance or you will not be able to appreciate so many things in this novel including the huge impact of this beginning.
One of the things this novel will do is keep your stress level high (did for me) since the running theme for about the first half of the book seemed to be "This is a disaster" so many things are going wrong. There are a couple of other subplots that add to the story and keep the readers interest high.
Bottom Line: "Radiance" was one of the best fantasy romances of 2015 and this sequel is no less of a quality piece of work even though it seems to be more in the vein of epic fantasy in places. The romance and dedication of Ildiko and Brishen to each other is still what makes this a great book in spite of all the heroics going on around them in this plot. 5 Stars and can't wait to see where the next book takes us.
NOTE: If you have not read the novella The Brush of Black Wings you will when this is finished (if you have read it, you will want to read the last few chapters again like I did)
I have to keep comparing the 2 books because it is a continuing story line but they are much different in many ways. In addition to the global nature of the threat, this is not as much of a romance as Radiance was since our pair of protagonists are already very familiar with each other (obviously) but the story while revolving around this global threat also has as a major subplot, this continuing romance and it's trials and tribulations. This emphasis on the love and romance adds depth to the main plot and without it would just be another sword and sorcery novel, but this enables it to be filled with tragedy and triumph to grab you on an emotional level.
While it has been over a year since I read Radiance, I remember it being a heartwarming story but Eidolon starts out with an extremely emotional beginning that will drive the whole book so don't plan to ease into this story, it throws you right into some emotionally wrenching stuff. I should point out you REALLY should not be reading this without having read Radiance or you will not be able to appreciate so many things in this novel including the huge impact of this beginning.
One of the things this novel will do is keep your stress level high (did for me) since the running theme for about the first half of the book seemed to be "This is a disaster" so many things are going wrong. There are a couple of other subplots that add to the story and keep the readers interest high.
Bottom Line: "Radiance" was one of the best fantasy romances of 2015 and this sequel is no less of a quality piece of work even though it seems to be more in the vein of epic fantasy in places. The romance and dedication of Ildiko and Brishen to each other is still what makes this a great book in spite of all the heroics going on around them in this plot. 5 Stars and can't wait to see where the next book takes us.
NOTE: If you have not read the novella The Brush of Black Wings you will when this is finished (if you have read it, you will want to read the last few chapters again like I did)
May 5, 2022
Duty
A great book. A big story. The fate kingdom, possibly the world, and the marriage stands in the ballance.
Duty brought these two together, now it threatens to tear the apart. That is if they survive. That is a big if with a demon invasion in progress. What sacrifice will be necessary, who will be willing to make it and what/who are the Wraith Kings.
A great emotionally charged sequel. I can see many big stories coming out of this book. I love the honour and sacrifice in this book. I can't wait to see what is next.
A great book. A big story. The fate kingdom, possibly the world, and the marriage stands in the ballance.
Duty brought these two together, now it threatens to tear the apart. That is if they survive. That is a big if with a demon invasion in progress. What sacrifice will be necessary, who will be willing to make it and what/who are the Wraith Kings.
A great emotionally charged sequel. I can see many big stories coming out of this book. I love the honour and sacrifice in this book. I can't wait to see what is next.
July 29, 2018
Another 4.5 stars. Why round down instead of round up?
Well, firstly, in both books, there were plenty of grammar and editing mistakes - like A LOT. Enough to be distracting and stir up my pet peeves. With such gorgeous, detailed covers that were obviously designed for these books, you'd think the author/ team would have spent more time fine tuning the books before publication. NO. Lay vs. lie used wrongly. Quotation marks missing all over the place. And so on and so forth. Now, in order to get to the parts I like, I did skip over a LOT of the book, so I probably missed a bunch of errors. Even just with the parts I read there were just too many.
THAT BEING SAID...
I LOVE LOVE LOVE BRISHEN! Such a wonderful, tremendous, beautiful, sexy, and so on and so forth HERO!!
He's HOT.
He's passionate.
He's loyal and sweet and loving.
He's brave and self-sacrificing.
He's hard when he needs to be (like in the end).
He's enduring and patient.
He has a great sense of humor.
He's gentle and optimistic.
I mean, forget the outer package and the missing eye and the scars for a second (even tho, honestly I don't think all that stuff is in the least UN-attractive when combined with the rest of the physical package), he's GORGEOUS.
I read this book for Brishen and maybe a little for his interaction with Ildiko.
Not entirely happy with her in this book. I do love her practicality (it's why she takes getting married to a "demon" in stride), but the way she hurt him repeatedly in this book. Come on. She's wise and cunning at court but she can't understand what her own husband needs from her? Woman, when he hasn't seen you for days and he's about to sacrifice himself in a war that may well be his last, when he comes to you to do the dirty, he's just expressing his love and looking for comfort! Not a whole lot else going on in his mind!
She pretty much pissed me off those couple of times and made me feel she was a bit unworthy of him.
I might go back at some point when I'm too bored with other books to read these 2 books at leisure and not skip over the non-lover parts, but not right now.
And I repeat my review of Book 1 - I can used a LOT more sexy times in these books!!!
In all, highly recommend these 2 books to fantasy readers. And it says it's #2. I feel like there should be #3 and #4 and so on. Like what about the Monk who sacrificed himself? And Anshuet and Severex? Can't spell their names...where does the author come up with these names?? I don't see any novels in the works for this series but if the series is called Wraith Kings, shouldn't there be novels for every one of the five Wraith Kings???
Anywho, don't like series that end without totally tying things off. Like the King Maker Chronicles by Amanda Bouchet. The third one (and supposedly the last) just made me want to throttle the author...
Well, firstly, in both books, there were plenty of grammar and editing mistakes - like A LOT. Enough to be distracting and stir up my pet peeves. With such gorgeous, detailed covers that were obviously designed for these books, you'd think the author/ team would have spent more time fine tuning the books before publication. NO. Lay vs. lie used wrongly. Quotation marks missing all over the place. And so on and so forth. Now, in order to get to the parts I like, I did skip over a LOT of the book, so I probably missed a bunch of errors. Even just with the parts I read there were just too many.
THAT BEING SAID...
I LOVE LOVE LOVE BRISHEN! Such a wonderful, tremendous, beautiful, sexy, and so on and so forth HERO!!
He's HOT.
He's passionate.
He's loyal and sweet and loving.
He's brave and self-sacrificing.
He's hard when he needs to be (like in the end).
He's enduring and patient.
He has a great sense of humor.
He's gentle and optimistic.
I mean, forget the outer package and the missing eye and the scars for a second (even tho, honestly I don't think all that stuff is in the least UN-attractive when combined with the rest of the physical package), he's GORGEOUS.
I read this book for Brishen and maybe a little for his interaction with Ildiko.
Not entirely happy with her in this book. I do love her practicality (it's why she takes getting married to a "demon" in stride), but the way she hurt him repeatedly in this book. Come on. She's wise and cunning at court but she can't understand what her own husband needs from her? Woman, when he hasn't seen you for days and he's about to sacrifice himself in a war that may well be his last, when he comes to you to do the dirty, he's just expressing his love and looking for comfort! Not a whole lot else going on in his mind!
She pretty much pissed me off those couple of times and made me feel she was a bit unworthy of him.
I might go back at some point when I'm too bored with other books to read these 2 books at leisure and not skip over the non-lover parts, but not right now.
And I repeat my review of Book 1 - I can used a LOT more sexy times in these books!!!
In all, highly recommend these 2 books to fantasy readers. And it says it's #2. I feel like there should be #3 and #4 and so on. Like what about the Monk who sacrificed himself? And Anshuet and Severex? Can't spell their names...where does the author come up with these names?? I don't see any novels in the works for this series but if the series is called Wraith Kings, shouldn't there be novels for every one of the five Wraith Kings???
Anywho, don't like series that end without totally tying things off. Like the King Maker Chronicles by Amanda Bouchet. The third one (and supposedly the last) just made me want to throttle the author...
October 21, 2020
Ildiko cupped Brishen’s face. “It’s so dark in here. Except for your eye, I can’t see you.” He kissed her, tracing her lips with the tip of his tongue, before sliding into her mouth to gently tease her tongue. When he pulled back, they were both gasping. “That’s not true,” he said between planting more kisses across her forehead, cheeks and nose. “Dark or not, you see me. From that first day in the gardens at Pricid—our wedding day—you’ve always seen me.”
This is the conclusion to Brishen and Ildiko story and this started where we left off in its predecessor with the Shadow Queen of Haradis in her quest for power unwittingly unleashing a living nightmare onto the populace of the land.
The Galla malevolent creatures of cruelty that feed on magic and leave nothing but a trail of death and destruction in their wake cut a path across the countryside hunting the fleeing Kai as they lay waste to all in their path, none is safe from these demons neither Kai or human stands a chance against the dark stain spreading and infecting the land.
The Humans and Kai now have to join forces to contain this threat to there very existence and as magic brought them forth so it must be used to banish them back into the dark abyss they sprang forth from.
The answer Wraith Kings of kai and human alike to summon the dead and coral the Galla back to whence they came.
There is also some added strife between Brishen and Ildiko brought forth because of there current circumstances and the weight of now holding the crown.
“Privilege,” she said gently, “gives the crown its shine. Duty gives it its weight. It’s because you are now king that you can’t do as you wish. The person you are—honorable, brave—will do what’s required.”
This has two separate story arcs on a collision course one the new king and his queen and what he must do to save his people and secure the crown and two palace guards escorting a nursemaid and her precious charge to safety.
Like the first book, this still felt very medieval in its setting and execution.
I adored the old day's fantasy vibe it gave off.
The prose used here was just so beautifully lyrical and I appreciated this just as much as when I first read this a few years back.
This author just has such a way with words and has yet to produce anything that I haven't adored.
As well as the action in this one this is also such an exquisite love story that gave me shivers with its intensity of emotion.
“I would have been content to live my life as just Brishen,” he whispered into her hair. “Who was loved by Ildiko.”
This duet is up there with my favourite reads of all time and is one I really do recommend highly.
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
www.beckiebookworm.com
July 4, 2016
In case you are wondering what 'Eidolon' is actually, I found this straight from the book itself-
This book was very emotional for me. Very exciting but very emotional indeed....in fact it was so emotional that I ditched this book, read some happy contemporary romances and then get back to this. I guess I got quite attached to Ildiko and Brishen's characters and story, it was mesmerising, heart breaking and joyful at the same time.
It was difficult to imagine Brishen like that but I got around it.
At times I felt that story dragged on but that might be because I wanted to see that end - the grand finale.
That being said, there was that unusual twist and brave secondary characters also added so much to the story but I was being impatient for Brishen to come back. I guess we have got happy ending, but I just hope it would stay that way - at least for Ildiko and Brishen.
I'm content to live my life as just Ildiko, who is loved by Brishen.
May 7, 2016
Picks up right were the first book left off. Brishen and Ildiko are an established pairing, so there is a little less romance, but due to the darker plot a whole lotta ANGST at first.
The story is told in alternating chapters. In the beginning one side is Ildiko and Brishen, the other side a group of travellers heading their way. Eventually that changes, as the plot develops.
I like the idea of the Wraith King and what they do, although the idea is not exactly new. Tolkien comes to mind.
The plot wasn't exactly mind boggling. The first half held more tension for me, with the fate of Ildiko in the balance. The second half, where the fight against the galla actually happens, was pretty straight forward and with little suspense and few surprises. Not as strong as the first half of the book, too predictable. I put the book down for a day, to read something else in between, and wasn't to fussed about picking it up again.
Bottom line, it was ok. I am somewhere around 3.5 stars for this installment. The next book will center around Serovek and Anhuset. I liked them as side characters. Not sure yet, if I will get the book when it comes out in 2017. Rigth now I am not too bothered.
There are quite a few editing mistakes in the ebook edition. The odd work or letter missing or a word too many. They were numerous enough to bother me and I hope future editions of the book will be better edited.
The story is told in alternating chapters. In the beginning one side is Ildiko and Brishen, the other side a group of travellers heading their way. Eventually that changes, as the plot develops.
I like the idea of the Wraith King and what they do, although the idea is not exactly new. Tolkien comes to mind.
The plot wasn't exactly mind boggling. The first half held more tension for me, with the fate of Ildiko in the balance. The second half, where the fight against the galla actually happens, was pretty straight forward and with little suspense and few surprises. Not as strong as the first half of the book, too predictable. I put the book down for a day, to read something else in between, and wasn't to fussed about picking it up again.
Bottom line, it was ok. I am somewhere around 3.5 stars for this installment. The next book will center around Serovek and Anhuset. I liked them as side characters. Not sure yet, if I will get the book when it comes out in 2017. Rigth now I am not too bothered.
There are quite a few editing mistakes in the ebook edition. The odd work or letter missing or a word too many. They were numerous enough to bother me and I hope future editions of the book will be better edited.
May 25, 2016
I wanted to love this book. I wanted it so much. I loved the first one in the series. Some of that magic vanished, though.
This book tells the story of what happens after Ildiko and Brishen's marriage and their establishment as a couple. In the first book, their love was epic. This one had more action.
Faced with magical evil creatures (galla) from "hell", Brishen has to take some drastic measures. To save his kingdom and his peoples' life, he has to be the Wraith King and lead an army of dead "soldiers", both Kai and Gauri.
I liked Ildiko in this book. She's stronger and more capable. Brishen was sweet as always, always fighting for her, always loving and never giving up on her.
“Don’t leave me, Ildiko,” he implored. “The burden is only bearable because you’re here.”
My heart broke for them and their inability to . I was so happy at the end for their little family.
Two characters whom I loved in this book were Anhuset and Serovek. I love how they tease each other all the time.
“You wouldn’t survive me, horse lord.”
Serovek wasn’t most human males. After the first shock of surprise wore off, he relaxed into her palm and quirked a smile.
“But I would die happy, and you’d regret killing me".
I see a great potential with these two. I'm so glad the next book will be about them. :)
This book tells the story of what happens after Ildiko and Brishen's marriage and their establishment as a couple. In the first book, their love was epic. This one had more action.
Faced with magical evil creatures (galla) from "hell", Brishen has to take some drastic measures. To save his kingdom and his peoples' life, he has to be the Wraith King and lead an army of dead "soldiers", both Kai and Gauri.
I liked Ildiko in this book. She's stronger and more capable. Brishen was sweet as always, always fighting for her, always loving and never giving up on her.
“Don’t leave me, Ildiko,” he implored. “The burden is only bearable because you’re here.”
My heart broke for them and their inability to . I was so happy at the end for their little family.
Two characters whom I loved in this book were Anhuset and Serovek. I love how they tease each other all the time.
“You wouldn’t survive me, horse lord.”
Serovek wasn’t most human males. After the first shock of surprise wore off, he relaxed into her palm and quirked a smile.
“But I would die happy, and you’d regret killing me".
I see a great potential with these two. I'm so glad the next book will be about them. :)
September 9, 2018
Audio / story 3.75 stars
March 31, 2019
Brishen and Ildiko forever!! Love them so much! I hope we get Serovek and Anhuset’s story soon.
June 24, 2020
why I didn't love this more???!!!
ugh...
well, I don't like friends to lovers in contemporary I guess I don't like it in pnr either...
there is nothing wrong with the book I just felt ...meh...
June 27, 2016
6 "everlasting-all conquering-love" stars
Absolutely AMAZING story
galla
„Such demons are drawn to blood and magic
"How do you kill galla?"
"I don't know that they can be killed. Not with steel at least, and I can't begin to imagine how much magic it would take to cage them, much less destroy them."
The horrid dead spirited demons killed Brishen's royal family and moved to destroy the land…
Leaving Brishen the only living heir, new king to the throne with the task to protect what's left of his people and his Kingdom…
„We wish only to help you save our country so you may rule more wisely than your parents before you.“
And to do that Brishen has to become a Wraith King and lead his newly formed army of the dead and of his allies to contain, herd and banish galla from his land and his Kingdom.
“How does one become a Wraith King?“
„You must be killed, then remade as eidolon.“
„We've come to tell you it's time to die.“
Well, fuckity fucking fuck was my first thought after reading this…
And all the cluster fuck begins from there…
The shit comes pouring down in the form of another question – of presenting/delivering the heir to the throne, which Ildiko can't do…since she can't bear Brishen a child. Their love is tested and torn between the duty, doubt, fear of the unknown, salvation, and the fight for the love against all odds…
„Do you love me, Ildiko?“
„With everything I am, Brishen…And for as long as I live. You must never doubt it.“
She uttered them, not as if they were a declaration of devotion but one of farewell.
They are under pressure from Kai council upholding their threathened heritage but Brishen won't give her up. And he'll prove them all wrong as he'll withstand every pain, harship of death itself only for him to return to Ildiko. To the ONE. The only ONE for him.
“I will not give you up.“
„I will suffer the ritual, gladly. Let it rip me apart and put me back together again. I will rob my people of their magic and fight the galla. I will not renounce my wife.“
„The burden is only bearable because you're here.“
„I will stand beside you through all of this…and welcome you home with gladness when it's over, and you return triumphant.“
And the ultimate sacrife was given that was not a sacrifice at all in the eyes of the ones that shared the never dying love of the epic proportions…
“I would have been content to live my life as just Brishen“, he whispered into her hair. „Who was loved by Ildiko.“
And, so be it.
„I AM content to live my life as just Ildiko…who IS loved by Brishen
Amazing, amazing story, the characters, the emotion driven through every pore of the storyline. Simply amazing, I can't even find enough words to stop saying „amazing“
But it was fuckin' amazing!
NEWS FLASH!
I am guest starring on my dear friend EBRU blog...so you can freely check that out! *wink*
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January 20, 2022
I was really surprised at how much I loved this. I really enjoyed Radiance and wasn't sure what other aspects of Brishen and Ildiko's story needed telling but I loooooved this so much. The way they bothe fought to be together was beautiful and heartbreaking.
January 7, 2018
4/5 stars
This series is SO good!! I recently re-read the first book when I realised I had never progressed with the series, past me didn't know what she was missing out on!! Whereas the first book was more fun and lighthearted, this book was tense, gut-wrenching and full of emotions. This book was also much more action packed, with fighting, court intrigue and a horde of hungry demons. I just couldn't put this book down, there was just so much was going on and I just had to know what would happen next. I was flipping through the pages like a madwoman!! I know that I just finished these two books, but I already miss the characters. I have a strong urge to just pick up the first book again and start the series all over again. I'm going to die waiting for the third book!!
Brishen and Ildiko have already overcome so many trials that have arisen from them being of vastly different species, but their newfound peace is short lived. Brishen's evil and viscous mother, the queen of Haradis, has unleashed a force of dark spirit is on the world. This force of demons has the ability to destroy entire towns and all who live in them, which is exactly what happened in the heart of Haradis. Now, the survivors of this attack slowly make their way towards Brishen's home, as he is now the sole survivor of the royal house. The role of ruler has been thrust on Brishen and he unwillingly accepts this burden.
With the new title of ruler comes unexpected trials and tribulations. Court politics, warring kingdoms and his own marriage seem to coming under attack through these new circumstances. The Kai people accepted the youngest prince to have a human wife, but now that he is king, their acceptance of the marriage is failing. Brishen now has to take the responsibility of uniting enemy kingdoms to destroy these demons, as well as maintaining his own marriage.
It's so interesting to me that I loved the fun and light nature of the first book, when this book is so much darker and more tense. The major change in tone from the first novel isn't a bad thing, I actually really enjoyed the more emotional and gut-wrenching nature of this book. We got to see Brishen and Ildiko's relationship like never before, as they went through a lot of major hardships in this novel. I grew so much more emotionally attached to this couple, as well as our side characters through the tension in this novel.
This intensity of the plot also kept me fully hooked on the novel for the plot, not just the romance. The first book was strongly focused on the romance and this book held that same focus, whilst also exploring various fantastical elements. I really liked this about the novel as I was as equally intrigued by the romance as I was by the setting and plot. I feel like we explored a lot more of the unique qualities of the world is this novel, which I really enjoyed.
Even though I really enjoyed this book, I didn't like it as much as the first one. This was partly because of Ildiko and her actions towards Brishen. I just wish she wasn't so willing to give up on their marriage, but I'm glad Brishen was having none of her crap. I also kind of understand what she was doing, so I can't really hate her for it. There were also certain parts of the book which I thought were a bit too slow, especially the very beginning and toward the middle of the novel. In saying this, when there was action, those scenes were intense!! The whole last part of the book had me on the edge of my seat, I'm sure I started breathing erratically. There were also slower and simpler parts that I enjoyed, like watching how Ildiko and Brishen ran their household. All in all, I just wish there were more consistencies in the plot so I could have loved every moment more.
Another thing that I really liked about this book was the new point of view we received. Most of the book was told by either Brishen or Ildiko, but we also got chapters from a couple of survivors of the initial Galla attack. I really enjoyed these, as they were interesting and really connected the story. We could hear about the attacks from this one point of view, whilst also focusing on how things were turning out for Brishen and Ildiko. I found that these chapters broke up the story really well, allowing for new and exciting plot points that didn't focus around our main characters.
I already loved Brishen and Ildiko when starting this book, and my feelings for them have only grown after reading this. I really enjoyed their romance, and felt so deeply for them as a couple. From the first book, I also really loved a couple of the side characters, which was also strengthened in this novel. I can't wait for the next book in the series, especially since I've heard that it is from a different point of view.
“You already are, wife. You’re my sanctuary, my refuge.”
This series is SO good!! I recently re-read the first book when I realised I had never progressed with the series, past me didn't know what she was missing out on!! Whereas the first book was more fun and lighthearted, this book was tense, gut-wrenching and full of emotions. This book was also much more action packed, with fighting, court intrigue and a horde of hungry demons. I just couldn't put this book down, there was just so much was going on and I just had to know what would happen next. I was flipping through the pages like a madwoman!! I know that I just finished these two books, but I already miss the characters. I have a strong urge to just pick up the first book again and start the series all over again. I'm going to die waiting for the third book!!
"I would have been content to live my life as just Brishen," he whispered into her hair. "Who was loved by Ildiko."
Brishen and Ildiko have already overcome so many trials that have arisen from them being of vastly different species, but their newfound peace is short lived. Brishen's evil and viscous mother, the queen of Haradis, has unleashed a force of dark spirit is on the world. This force of demons has the ability to destroy entire towns and all who live in them, which is exactly what happened in the heart of Haradis. Now, the survivors of this attack slowly make their way towards Brishen's home, as he is now the sole survivor of the royal house. The role of ruler has been thrust on Brishen and he unwillingly accepts this burden.
With the new title of ruler comes unexpected trials and tribulations. Court politics, warring kingdoms and his own marriage seem to coming under attack through these new circumstances. The Kai people accepted the youngest prince to have a human wife, but now that he is king, their acceptance of the marriage is failing. Brishen now has to take the responsibility of uniting enemy kingdoms to destroy these demons, as well as maintaining his own marriage.
It's so interesting to me that I loved the fun and light nature of the first book, when this book is so much darker and more tense. The major change in tone from the first novel isn't a bad thing, I actually really enjoyed the more emotional and gut-wrenching nature of this book. We got to see Brishen and Ildiko's relationship like never before, as they went through a lot of major hardships in this novel. I grew so much more emotionally attached to this couple, as well as our side characters through the tension in this novel.
This intensity of the plot also kept me fully hooked on the novel for the plot, not just the romance. The first book was strongly focused on the romance and this book held that same focus, whilst also exploring various fantastical elements. I really liked this about the novel as I was as equally intrigued by the romance as I was by the setting and plot. I feel like we explored a lot more of the unique qualities of the world is this novel, which I really enjoyed.
Even though I really enjoyed this book, I didn't like it as much as the first one. This was partly because of Ildiko and her actions towards Brishen. I just wish she wasn't so willing to give up on their marriage, but I'm glad Brishen was having none of her crap. I also kind of understand what she was doing, so I can't really hate her for it. There were also certain parts of the book which I thought were a bit too slow, especially the very beginning and toward the middle of the novel. In saying this, when there was action, those scenes were intense!! The whole last part of the book had me on the edge of my seat, I'm sure I started breathing erratically. There were also slower and simpler parts that I enjoyed, like watching how Ildiko and Brishen ran their household. All in all, I just wish there were more consistencies in the plot so I could have loved every moment more.
"I am king!” he roared, the thin veneer of calm burned away by rage. “I will do as I wish, and I will keep my wife!”
Another thing that I really liked about this book was the new point of view we received. Most of the book was told by either Brishen or Ildiko, but we also got chapters from a couple of survivors of the initial Galla attack. I really enjoyed these, as they were interesting and really connected the story. We could hear about the attacks from this one point of view, whilst also focusing on how things were turning out for Brishen and Ildiko. I found that these chapters broke up the story really well, allowing for new and exciting plot points that didn't focus around our main characters.
I already loved Brishen and Ildiko when starting this book, and my feelings for them have only grown after reading this. I really enjoyed their romance, and felt so deeply for them as a couple. From the first book, I also really loved a couple of the side characters, which was also strengthened in this novel. I can't wait for the next book in the series, especially since I've heard that it is from a different point of view.
July 3, 2024
Reread
The h annoyed me endlessly 😭
Spoilers ahead
Ok so the plot picks up from the end of book 1 when Brishen's power hungry mother unleashed some demon things that quickly fed on the entire royal family and a lot of their subjects making Brishen supposed King
This causes romantic problems with his wife because with their pairing they're unable to have kids and of course a King needs an heir. Ildiko starts looking around for a Kai match for her husband who absolutely refuses to give his wife up
Meanwhile the demon things(y'all I forgot the name 😂) are tracking the escapees from the castle and killing many other people
And then a whole bunch of stuff......and thennnnnnn they defeat the enemy lol
Listen I loved this book, Brishen was all the damn things you hope for in a BBF. Now Ildiko was a little annoying with her self sacrificing for the good of the ppl but I understood her reasoning, however I was like "girl stop hurting my man can't you see he doesn't wanna let your dumb ass go?" But it eventually worked out in an interesting way, now from my reading experience I know authors might've inserted a miracle pregnancy but this author stuck true to her plot and we get an alternative
I'm interested in the secondary characters so I'll try that book and would definitely try more from this author
“I will not give you up,” he vowed between clenched teeth. “I will suffer the ritual, gladly. Let it rip me apart and put me back together again. I will rob my people of their magic and fight the galla. I will not renounce my wife
☝that's Brishen!!!! Awwwwwwww
Oh right the demon things are galla 😂
********SCREECH soooooo this book was published in 2016 and the book with the secondary characters I wanted to read about isn't available until September 2020!!!!!!!!!!! I'm tempted to go back and lower my rating for these 2 books 😂 but Brishen doesn't deserve that so now I'm settling in for a long ass wait! Dammit!
The h annoyed me endlessly 😭
Spoilers ahead
Ok so the plot picks up from the end of book 1 when Brishen's power hungry mother unleashed some demon things that quickly fed on the entire royal family and a lot of their subjects making Brishen supposed King
This causes romantic problems with his wife because with their pairing they're unable to have kids and of course a King needs an heir. Ildiko starts looking around for a Kai match for her husband who absolutely refuses to give his wife up
Meanwhile the demon things(y'all I forgot the name 😂) are tracking the escapees from the castle and killing many other people
And then a whole bunch of stuff......and thennnnnnn they defeat the enemy lol
Listen I loved this book, Brishen was all the damn things you hope for in a BBF. Now Ildiko was a little annoying with her self sacrificing for the good of the ppl but I understood her reasoning, however I was like "girl stop hurting my man can't you see he doesn't wanna let your dumb ass go?" But it eventually worked out in an interesting way, now from my reading experience I know authors might've inserted a miracle pregnancy but this author stuck true to her plot and we get an alternative
I'm interested in the secondary characters so I'll try that book and would definitely try more from this author
“I will not give you up,” he vowed between clenched teeth. “I will suffer the ritual, gladly. Let it rip me apart and put me back together again. I will rob my people of their magic and fight the galla. I will not renounce my wife
☝that's Brishen!!!! Awwwwwwww
Oh right the demon things are galla 😂
********SCREECH soooooo this book was published in 2016 and the book with the secondary characters I wanted to read about isn't available until September 2020!!!!!!!!!!! I'm tempted to go back and lower my rating for these 2 books 😂 but Brishen doesn't deserve that so now I'm settling in for a long ass wait! Dammit!
July 21, 2016
So much emotion and feeling for a book that is essentially about a magical war with demons. The imagery of the Kai elders taking their river stand will live with me for a long time. Creative to the extreme, these books have the deep emotion to go along with an epic story. I just sigh with happiness when I am done with a Grace Draven book.
September 7, 2022
I am blown away by this book - the world building, the beautiful relationship, the action following the events of book 1's epilogue, the continued moments of banter, all the intensity. I bawled my eyes out in several parts of this story and I was supposed to be doing laundry and grocery shopping, spoiler: I'm now scrambling to do both because I could.not.put.this.down. I didn't even want to get a snack, I was so invested in finding out what would happen next. Like the first book, this is written in third person and this book has multiple POVs with a new POV that starts in the prologue and is important to the plot, but not the romance.
This is a fast-paced and plot heavy book that still allows the characters to shine. The focus of this second book is on dealing with the threat of the galla, who are overrunning any areas they can. The story follows Brishen, Ildiko and those that are with them, as well as some of the survivors from the capital, who are making their way to Brishen's garrison. A way to fight the galla is presented and it not only requires help from the humans and a potentially dangerous, ancient ceremony, but also requires a sacrifice from the Kai to make the magic work. Politics play a big part of this book esp since there's a change in leadership during a crisis.
There's still no ow/om drama and Brishen is still j/p of Ildiko. There is a wrinkle that isn't caused by anyone specific but may make some readers sensitive - I cannot stress enough though how much these two love each other and how clear that is throughout. I love the intimacy between them too, not just during steamy times.
There is death, violence, and loss in this book. There's also perseverance, sacrifice, lots and lots of love, and triumph. I do think everything is wrapped up beautifully and ends in a HEA, although I could understand how others may view it as more of a HFN. The next book in the series follows two of the side characters from these first two books and who I think added great depth in any of their scenes.
This is a fast-paced and plot heavy book that still allows the characters to shine. The focus of this second book is on dealing with the threat of the galla, who are overrunning any areas they can. The story follows Brishen, Ildiko and those that are with them, as well as some of the survivors from the capital, who are making their way to Brishen's garrison. A way to fight the galla is presented and it not only requires help from the humans and a potentially dangerous, ancient ceremony, but also requires a sacrifice from the Kai to make the magic work. Politics play a big part of this book esp since there's a change in leadership during a crisis.
There's still no ow/om drama and Brishen is still j/p of Ildiko. There is a wrinkle that isn't caused by anyone specific but may make some readers sensitive - I cannot stress enough though how much these two love each other and how clear that is throughout. I love the intimacy between them too, not just during steamy times.
There is death, violence, and loss in this book. There's also perseverance, sacrifice, lots and lots of love, and triumph. I do think everything is wrapped up beautifully and ends in a HEA, although I could understand how others may view it as more of a HFN. The next book in the series follows two of the side characters from these first two books and who I think added great depth in any of their scenes.
February 17, 2021
"Dark or not, you see me."
I gotta love this for Brishen and Ildiko alone. Their relationship is one of the most beautiful I have ever read about!
The story in this one and therefore the feeling of this book are very different from the first book (although the title Wraith Kings makes sense now) and I don't know if I should say that this is good or bad. The story is compelling and kept me glued to the pages but the focus was off of Brishen and Ildiko for most of the time. Different? Definetly. Bad? Hell no. I would advise readers to go into this sequel with an open mind, though.
Thinking about it, there was yet another change: The writing felt improved. Maybe it was me getting used to the style but I got through this more easily.
I really enjoyed the two books in this series so far and I might just be back for more (if they happen to print the next one...) even if it doesn't seem to be about Brishen and Ildiko anymore.
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