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The Archer's Heart #1
The Archer's Heart, Book One
In the ancient kingdom of Marhavad, noblemen dominate the lower castes, wielding mystic weapons, known as shartas, against any who oppose them. For generations the rule of Marhavad’s kings has been absolute. But now the line of succession is divided, and whispers of revolution are heard in even the royal palace. Keshan Adaru, an outspoken man of unearthly charms, welcomes these changes. All his life he has foreseen an uprising that will shatter the castes and end the tyranny of the old laws. His visions have driven him but now, at the brink of their fulfillment, he finds himself obsessed with Prince Jandu Paran– a man whose entire family must be destroyed if the kingdom is to be freed. Tarek Amia would gladly see Jandu Paran brought low. Born the son of a charioteer, Tarek has no love for the royal princes who have slighted and insulted him all his life. Only Keshan’s philosophies have elevated him from the brutal ranks of common soldiers. Tarek owes Keshan his devotion, but he is a pragmatic man and when he discovers Keshan’s reckless affair he realizes that Keshan may have to be sacrificed for the sake of his own revolution. Young Prince Jandu Paran has never concerned himself with court intrigue. His life has been dedicated to the lordly art of archery and mastering the immense powers of the shartas. Handsome and arrogant, he is sure that no man can surpass him and yet Keshan Adaru’s mere touch brings Jandu to his knees. But his desire for Keshan is more than forbidden; it threatens to destroy Jandu’s pride, position and family. In the midst of this turmoil, an unspeakable event forces Jandu to redefine the meaning of honor and loyalty. And now, as armies arise to war, each man must decide where his allegiance lies and what he will sacrifice in his heart and on the battlefield.
253 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 1, 2008
17 people are currently reading
826 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
October 7, 2013
I truly enjoyed this book, and it will always hold a spot in my heart , as it was among the first non-yaoi, m/m novels that I found when I first learned of the genre.
After coming from reading long complex sagas like A song of Fire and Ice, now known by most as Game of Thrones, I found (then not now) that a lot of the m/m books were rather short. Of course about a year later when I got my first Kindle and began to understand how e-readers were not only changing the reading world , but the way people wrote as well, I understood why a lot of longer m/m books are written in a series rather than as one giant book.
At any rate, this was the first novel I'd come across, that actually had some size to it and yet still moved along at a nice pace. It had a world that deviated from the norm, but was close enough to places I'd visited in other books that it immediately captured my attention.
I'm a huge David Gemmell fan and to me this was like an Rudolph Kipling version of his books crossed with a historical scifi-ish kind of novel.
I sank right into it, loving the colorful descriptions of the world, the clothing and the character of the two main characters.
When I finished it , I went to locate more of the authors works and was disappointed to find there weren't any. Unable to let go of the haunting characters, I reread the book and found it just as stimulating as the original read... that's what I call a good book.
Thanks to the M/M group here on goodreads, I have learned that since that long ago time, two more books in the series have been published and just went and purchased Book 2.
Thanks m/m group!
... and thanks Astrid Amara for continuing this beautiful tale.
DISCLAIMER: This book has been purchased by the reviewer.
After coming from reading long complex sagas like A song of Fire and Ice, now known by most as Game of Thrones, I found (then not now) that a lot of the m/m books were rather short. Of course about a year later when I got my first Kindle and began to understand how e-readers were not only changing the reading world , but the way people wrote as well, I understood why a lot of longer m/m books are written in a series rather than as one giant book.
At any rate, this was the first novel I'd come across, that actually had some size to it and yet still moved along at a nice pace. It had a world that deviated from the norm, but was close enough to places I'd visited in other books that it immediately captured my attention.
I'm a huge David Gemmell fan and to me this was like an Rudolph Kipling version of his books crossed with a historical scifi-ish kind of novel.
I sank right into it, loving the colorful descriptions of the world, the clothing and the character of the two main characters.
When I finished it , I went to locate more of the authors works and was disappointed to find there weren't any. Unable to let go of the haunting characters, I reread the book and found it just as stimulating as the original read... that's what I call a good book.
Thanks to the M/M group here on goodreads, I have learned that since that long ago time, two more books in the series have been published and just went and purchased Book 2.
Thanks m/m group!
... and thanks Astrid Amara for continuing this beautiful tale.
DISCLAIMER: This book has been purchased by the reviewer.
August 2, 2023
This is the first in a three book series, or maybe more of a serial, and I will say this first book was good and well-written, but on its own, it didn’t leave a big impression on me. However, the story really ramped up in the next two books, and the series altogether was fantastic! The characters were so complex and flawed. Some of the relationships (romantic, family, and friend) were beautiful, others were heartbreaking. The world and the magic were interesting.
In this book in particular, I noticed that each POV character felt like they had a distinct voice. And the characters were all unique. Here, the notes I took when I finished (before continuing the series):
Keshan is outspoken, charismatic, and strong-willed. He knows what he wants, and he works to get it. He has strong beliefs about right and wrong, regardless of the law or what religious people say. Jandu was more oblivious and naive. I don’t think he really thought too hard about anything before Keshan. He just wanted to enjoy life and not worry about politics. But that made him biased and bigoted toward lower castes. But things started changing with Keshan. And Tarek, I don’t know how he really fits into the story yet. He’s in love with Darvad but it’s unrequited. He’s a lower caste, and maybe that’s why he seems more down-to-earth, but also a bit more downtrodden and desperate. And he lets Darvad tell him what to do and just goes along with it. But in a way that I can understand.
Trigger/content warning for homophobia in the world and also directed at the main characters throughout the series. Very mild spoiler, there is an execution at one point, which is not overly graphic but still difficult to read.
Like I said, I did continue, finished the whole series, and I’m so glad I did! It’s a well-written, interesting m/m high fantasy story with complex and imperfect characters!
*Rating: 4 Stars // Read Date: 2023 // Format: Ebook via TTS*
Recommended For:
Anyone who likes high fantasy worlds, characters with depth and complexity and flaws, characters who change (some for better, some for worse), m/m romance, unique magic systems, lots of struggles and emotions, and bittersweet endings.
Original Review @ Metaphors and Moonlight
In this book in particular, I noticed that each POV character felt like they had a distinct voice. And the characters were all unique. Here, the notes I took when I finished (before continuing the series):
Keshan is outspoken, charismatic, and strong-willed. He knows what he wants, and he works to get it. He has strong beliefs about right and wrong, regardless of the law or what religious people say. Jandu was more oblivious and naive. I don’t think he really thought too hard about anything before Keshan. He just wanted to enjoy life and not worry about politics. But that made him biased and bigoted toward lower castes. But things started changing with Keshan. And Tarek, I don’t know how he really fits into the story yet. He’s in love with Darvad but it’s unrequited. He’s a lower caste, and maybe that’s why he seems more down-to-earth, but also a bit more downtrodden and desperate. And he lets Darvad tell him what to do and just goes along with it. But in a way that I can understand.
Trigger/content warning for homophobia in the world and also directed at the main characters throughout the series. Very mild spoiler, there is an execution at one point, which is not overly graphic but still difficult to read.
Like I said, I did continue, finished the whole series, and I’m so glad I did! It’s a well-written, interesting m/m high fantasy story with complex and imperfect characters!
*Rating: 4 Stars // Read Date: 2023 // Format: Ebook via TTS*
Recommended For:
Anyone who likes high fantasy worlds, characters with depth and complexity and flaws, characters who change (some for better, some for worse), m/m romance, unique magic systems, lots of struggles and emotions, and bittersweet endings.
Original Review @ Metaphors and Moonlight
January 12, 2014
It's risky to rate the first book of a trilogy without reading the subsequent two volumes--which I will embark on as soon as I finish this little review--but I reacted strongly enough to this to take the risk. So for what it's worth, as fantasy set-ups go, I am happy to give this five stars. It's gorgeously written, with intriguing magic, rich allegorical layers--most obviously of Indian mythology--and compelling moral stakes. Of the three narrative centers, Jandu and Keshan receive the most attention--their affair was passionate and tender. Tarek's role is less obvious and his scenes (I suspect/hope) function more to set up future events than any plotline that became obvious in this book--I hope he will be given a role worthy of him. My main niggle was that the names and positions are quite hard to keep track of, though going back and rereading the opening scene cleared up most of my lingering confusion.
Based on the ratings, I think the subsequent books hold up, so hopefully I will not be coming back and angrily deleting or qualifying these initial reactions. For now, I have no trouble warmly recommending this for fans of M/M high fantasy.
Based on the ratings, I think the subsequent books hold up, so hopefully I will not be coming back and angrily deleting or qualifying these initial reactions. For now, I have no trouble warmly recommending this for fans of M/M high fantasy.
April 14, 2020
Oh no. I really wanted to like this.
A fantasy novel with queer characters, based on Indian mythology? With archery and magic weapons? Political intrigue? It was supposed to be everything I like. It's also published by Blind Eye Books and everything I've read from them is great.
Of course, this is all based on my tastes, so think of it what you will.
1, I don't actually feel the chemistry between the two main characters. Sure, we know they find each other attractive. They also enjoy each other's company, but I feel we're barely scratching the surface of their acquaintance and I'm not sure what to feel about it.
Maybe I'd prefer for them not to actually feel love for each other at first and just have amicable/affectionate physical relations? Their connection just doesn't feel as fully formed to me as it could have been.
2, Which sucks because there are moments when the narration summarises important actions taken by the characters (e.g. they fast travel, I guess, to meet each other and stuff like that. Things that take time and need more fleshing out get reduced to a few sentences sometimes), while we get lovingly written and very long sex scenes. Of the romantic kind. Between two characters whose chemistry I'm not 100% convinced of.
It's not ideal. :'D
3, The politics are not as strong and fully developed because... sex scenes. We get a lot more from Tarek's POV-which makes sense because he's from the lower caste and more directly affected by the laws of their land, but Tarek shouldn't have been overshadowing our main characters. I find myself caring more about Tarek and what happens to him than Keshan and Jandu.
I don't know if I'll read the rest. I'm not the biggest fan of the pacing. And the world building is not my favourite either--I want to like it, but I don't know if I can see it fully yet? Maybe it'll get better in the latter books, though.
A fantasy novel with queer characters, based on Indian mythology? With archery and magic weapons? Political intrigue? It was supposed to be everything I like. It's also published by Blind Eye Books and everything I've read from them is great.
Of course, this is all based on my tastes, so think of it what you will.
1, I don't actually feel the chemistry between the two main characters. Sure, we know they find each other attractive. They also enjoy each other's company, but I feel we're barely scratching the surface of their acquaintance and I'm not sure what to feel about it.
Maybe I'd prefer for them not to actually feel love for each other at first and just have amicable/affectionate physical relations? Their connection just doesn't feel as fully formed to me as it could have been.
2, Which sucks because there are moments when the narration summarises important actions taken by the characters (e.g. they fast travel, I guess, to meet each other and stuff like that. Things that take time and need more fleshing out get reduced to a few sentences sometimes), while we get lovingly written and very long sex scenes. Of the romantic kind. Between two characters whose chemistry I'm not 100% convinced of.
It's not ideal. :'D
3, The politics are not as strong and fully developed because... sex scenes. We get a lot more from Tarek's POV-which makes sense because he's from the lower caste and more directly affected by the laws of their land, but Tarek shouldn't have been overshadowing our main characters. I find myself caring more about Tarek and what happens to him than Keshan and Jandu.
I don't know if I'll read the rest. I'm not the biggest fan of the pacing. And the world building is not my favourite either--I want to like it, but I don't know if I can see it fully yet? Maybe it'll get better in the latter books, though.
April 20, 2020
Hm it’s just the beginning but you’ve got me hooked.
I really went into this knowing id be seeing some archery. And I was not disappointed 😂. Plot wise idk what the f will happen but here are some random thoughts I had::::
- Keshan and Jandu are cousins???? 😗😗😗
- Jandu and Keshan are cousinssss
- Tarek I really think you deserve far better so
- Fridu-WHATEVER you were such a diK
- idk why but I was really surprised by the fast romance, like, I’m used to the couple realizing they like each other in like book 2 🤣 especially in high fantasy stories like this one. But I’m not to bugged out by it bc we still got Tarek who I feel like doesn’t have a definite love interest—Darvad to me doesn’t count.
- eww a conservative.
- but I also feel like Keshan should reel it in with such big social changes. Lay a foundations and slowly start building up to it. Don’t smack it in people’s face. Even if I like to see a good smack.
- and Jesus Jandu is so close minded and ignorant😗forget some people have that kinda of shit engraved into them by the people they were raised by.
- Yadur bro like come on srsly?? You fkin Soy boy
- WHY COULDNT THEY BE HAPPY ABOut BOTH RULINGGGGG
- I had something else to say but I forgot 🤷🏻♀️
I really went into this knowing id be seeing some archery. And I was not disappointed 😂. Plot wise idk what the f will happen but here are some random thoughts I had::::
- Keshan and Jandu are cousins???? 😗😗😗
- Jandu and Keshan are cousinssss
- Tarek I really think you deserve far better so
- Fridu-WHATEVER you were such a diK
- idk why but I was really surprised by the fast romance, like, I’m used to the couple realizing they like each other in like book 2 🤣 especially in high fantasy stories like this one. But I’m not to bugged out by it bc we still got Tarek who I feel like doesn’t have a definite love interest—Darvad to me doesn’t count.
- eww a conservative.
- but I also feel like Keshan should reel it in with such big social changes. Lay a foundations and slowly start building up to it. Don’t smack it in people’s face. Even if I like to see a good smack.
- and Jesus Jandu is so close minded and ignorant😗forget some people have that kinda of shit engraved into them by the people they were raised by.
- Yadur bro like come on srsly?? You fkin Soy boy
- WHY COULDNT THEY BE HAPPY ABOut BOTH RULINGGGGG
- I had something else to say but I forgot 🤷🏻♀️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 15, 2021
A parte che mi sono annoiata da morire tanto da volermi strappare le unghie.. ma poi ci fosse un personaggio simpaticoo per cui tifare! non riesco ancora a capire chi l'autrice abbia scelto come protagonista, a dirla tutta :D
Mi fa male sapere che Astrid Amara sia la BFF di Ginn Hale, che è la mia dea ☹️
Mi fa male sapere che Astrid Amara sia la BFF di Ginn Hale, che è la mia dea ☹️
March 13, 2018
3.5 stars
This is a M/M version of Mahabharata, that's what my friend told me. I don't know what to say about the plot similarity as I've never read Mahabharata before, so I couldn't and won't compare them. I'll just tell you how I felt about this first book.
Honestly, I have a mixed feeling about this one. I had a big and different expectation from this series. I really liked the premise of this book and was looking forward to reading it but was somewhat disappointed.
It started good and interesting at first, although I don't really like Keshan's personality and all characters in it except Jandu, that carefree and naughty naive boy, arrogant yet lovable. Four stars for the world building though, a breath of fresh air if you have never read story set in India, a different culture, a different world for you to adventure, with some fantasy infused in it. Kind of dreamy, imo. Adequate characterization, could improve in book 2 and 3. But to be honest, the writing style isn't a top notch like C.S. Pacat and Madeline Miller.
Like I said before, although the premise and setting was interesting, it slowly went downhill after Keshan and Jandu's 1st kiss. Although Jandu was quite appalled with that kiss as it's a taboo in their culture, he quickly succumbed to his lust and Jandu spent his days and nights lusting Keshan so much so that I as a bystander here couldn't help but thought Jandu might be a bi-curious that misinterpreted his lust as love.
I don't know why but I just felt the romance was bland and dry. I wasn't blown away by their chemistry, didn't feel the chemistry actually, didn't feel the fire of their passionate love. There's no butterflies or the giddiness feeling in my heart when they gazed at each other or when Jandu confessed his love for Keshan. So I remained cold, easily distracted, had trouble staying focused on the story and couldn't wait to finish it asap.
If you've read Kings Rising and The Song of Achilles, you'll know what I mean here. I'd never forget that feeling when Damen and Laurent (Kings Rising) just stared at each other's eyes or just calling each other's name when they made love but there were so much feelings and unspeakable words between them in the air that you'd just think that particular scene is sooo beautiful like the world stopped for them, no need for words, no need for "I love you" and you know it's perfect, the way they looked at each other conveyed it so much that you feel any sex talk or confession will ruined it instantly . XD And this is what I meant : 'showing rather than telling' part.
It's the same with Achilles and Patroclus' romantic staring scene on their 1st intimate night in Mt. Pelion (The Song of Achilles), they were not talking at all, but the deep emotion between them was so strong that you can understand what's in their mind at that time. Oh my, maybe I should consider to put The Song of Achilles in my favorite shelf, lol.
I'm not sure if it was the insta aspect, although I've read some instalove stories and sometimes loved them, but I just wasn't in the groove with this one. I don't know if it was because I just finished some really great and unputdownable books before this (Kings Rising, Dynasty of Ghosts and The Song of Achilles), and so I wished the romance in this book will be as epic as those books. But sadly my emotions just never got engaged with the story line. And I don't know if it'll get better in book 2 and 3.
So the boredom was stretched between 34% till 88% and finally around 89% it's getting better as the story finally reached its climax, and the climax weren't that unpredictable and surprising, I saw and even waited it coming from early chapters. But, those last 12% was gripping my attention enough much more than the rest of it, and made me rounded it up to 4 stars as the ending also gave me hope that book 2 will be better than this one.
This is a M/M version of Mahabharata, that's what my friend told me. I don't know what to say about the plot similarity as I've never read Mahabharata before, so I couldn't and won't compare them. I'll just tell you how I felt about this first book.
Honestly, I have a mixed feeling about this one. I had a big and different expectation from this series. I really liked the premise of this book and was looking forward to reading it but was somewhat disappointed.
It started good and interesting at first, although I don't really like Keshan's personality and all characters in it except Jandu, that carefree and naughty naive boy, arrogant yet lovable. Four stars for the world building though, a breath of fresh air if you have never read story set in India, a different culture, a different world for you to adventure, with some fantasy infused in it. Kind of dreamy, imo. Adequate characterization, could improve in book 2 and 3. But to be honest, the writing style isn't a top notch like C.S. Pacat and Madeline Miller.
Like I said before, although the premise and setting was interesting, it slowly went downhill after Keshan and Jandu's 1st kiss. Although Jandu was quite appalled with that kiss as it's a taboo in their culture, he quickly succumbed to his lust and Jandu spent his days and nights lusting Keshan so much so that I as a bystander here couldn't help but thought Jandu might be a bi-curious that misinterpreted his lust as love.
I don't know why but I just felt the romance was bland and dry. I wasn't blown away by their chemistry, didn't feel the chemistry actually, didn't feel the fire of their passionate love. There's no butterflies or the giddiness feeling in my heart when they gazed at each other or when Jandu confessed his love for Keshan. So I remained cold, easily distracted, had trouble staying focused on the story and couldn't wait to finish it asap.
If you've read Kings Rising and The Song of Achilles, you'll know what I mean here. I'd never forget that feeling when Damen and Laurent (Kings Rising) just stared at each other's eyes or just calling each other's name when they made love but there were so much feelings and unspeakable words between them in the air that you'd just think that particular scene is sooo beautiful like the world stopped for them, no need for words, no need for "I love you" and you know it's perfect, the way they looked at each other conveyed it so much that you feel any sex talk or confession will ruined it instantly . XD And this is what I meant : 'showing rather than telling' part.
It's the same with Achilles and Patroclus' romantic staring scene on their 1st intimate night in Mt. Pelion (The Song of Achilles), they were not talking at all, but the deep emotion between them was so strong that you can understand what's in their mind at that time. Oh my, maybe I should consider to put The Song of Achilles in my favorite shelf, lol.
I'm not sure if it was the insta aspect, although I've read some instalove stories and sometimes loved them, but I just wasn't in the groove with this one. I don't know if it was because I just finished some really great and unputdownable books before this (Kings Rising, Dynasty of Ghosts and The Song of Achilles), and so I wished the romance in this book will be as epic as those books. But sadly my emotions just never got engaged with the story line. And I don't know if it'll get better in book 2 and 3.
So the boredom was stretched between 34% till 88% and finally around 89% it's getting better as the story finally reached its climax, and the climax weren't that unpredictable and surprising, I saw and even waited it coming from early chapters. But, those last 12% was gripping my attention enough much more than the rest of it, and made me rounded it up to 4 stars as the ending also gave me hope that book 2 will be better than this one.
August 30, 2016
It's hard for me to decide what to rate this one. The world building in it is probably worth 5 stars; wonderfully rich descriptions of an India-like setting help to fully immerse you into this world with its lush jungle environment and caste system. The luxurious and extravagant lifestyle of the highest caste, the Triya is shown in great detail, and we are also exposed to the much meaner existences of the lower castes, down to the wretched Jegora. It's refreshing to read about this type of world and culture, as it's unique from the typically Western European medieval-like setting of many high fantasies.
There is a large cast of characters, typical of a high fantasy, and most of them are presented as distinct personalities. I like that we are able to see Keshan and Jandu's flaws(as well as many of the secondary characters); stories are always more interesting when the characters are not perfect. I like Tarek, and I'm nervous for him, as I feel he is destined to be a tragic figure in the series.
The reason I have a hard time rating this is I feel it could have used a much stricter editing. It tends to ramble; there are scenes that could have been combined or left out that would have made the story arc tighter. I'm not sure why I'm bothered with this in this particular book, as it's not unique in high fantasy at all; maybe it's the time I've spent as beta to friends' stories that has made me look at all stories with an eye to that kind of thing. Hopefully the other books in the series will continue to hold my interest as this one mainly did - I do care what happens to the characters, and there was a real tension building as the story progressed. It's hard to see at this point how things will work out well for the protagonists; this is going to keep me reading books two and three. World building 5, characterizations 4, story arc 3, so rounding to 4.
There is a large cast of characters, typical of a high fantasy, and most of them are presented as distinct personalities. I like that we are able to see Keshan and Jandu's flaws(as well as many of the secondary characters); stories are always more interesting when the characters are not perfect. I like Tarek, and I'm nervous for him, as I feel he is destined to be a tragic figure in the series.
The reason I have a hard time rating this is I feel it could have used a much stricter editing. It tends to ramble; there are scenes that could have been combined or left out that would have made the story arc tighter. I'm not sure why I'm bothered with this in this particular book, as it's not unique in high fantasy at all; maybe it's the time I've spent as beta to friends' stories that has made me look at all stories with an eye to that kind of thing. Hopefully the other books in the series will continue to hold my interest as this one mainly did - I do care what happens to the characters, and there was a real tension building as the story progressed. It's hard to see at this point how things will work out well for the protagonists; this is going to keep me reading books two and three. World building 5, characterizations 4, story arc 3, so rounding to 4.
February 27, 2016
I'm not sure how to rate this hmmmm, it got really good at the end, like last 2 chapters but overall it was pretty mediocre. The writing style and language was kinda weird too, it felt like the author tried to make it seem historicaley and also modern. It didn't work at times whatsoever.
.... but that ending tho, idk if to continue or not, I'll figure it out.
For now I'll rate it 2 stars.
.... but that ending tho, idk if to continue or not, I'll figure it out.
For now I'll rate it 2 stars.
August 13, 2015
The story itself is okay. I just don't think I really like any of the characters, which makes enjoying this very difficult. I mean, the circumstances ARE interesting, ish, but then I don't particularly care for/about the characters, and therefore what happens to them.
Still, I think the story itself & the circumstances are enough to keep me intrigued into the next one.
Still, I think the story itself & the circumstances are enough to keep me intrigued into the next one.
Want to read
December 6, 2014Thanks for the gift, Helle!! <3
May 3, 2016
4.5 STARS
April 29, 2022
3.5 stars
Keshan is back in his country after being banished for 5 years. Within the next year, a new king will be named, and Keshan, who wants to abolish the caste system, is interested in the politics of it. Because there are two lines for the regent to choose from in order to continue the succession. And one of the contenders appears to support his views. But someone catches Keshan's eye, and that someone turns out to be one of the brothers of the contender in the other line. With intrigue and political jockeying in abundance, Keshan and Jandu have to be careful who they align themselves with, and try not to get caught while indulging in their attraction to one another, because that is completely forbidden.
I enjoyed this. The world building was quality, and the plot was intriguing. I'm a little bit wary about Darvad and his intentions. He comes across to me as an ultimate politician, who will say anything to get the vote and support and then do whatever he wants afterward, going back on promises made. Jandu and Keshan were a little too insta love for me, even though they did get to know one another over time. It just seemed like they went from slaking their lust to "twue wuv" within a blink of an eye, and no communication in between. Especially since Keshan didn't approve of how Jandu viewed the lower castes, and Jandu couldn't seem to understand Keshan's point of view. That's not a little niggle for a relationship; that's a big freaking deal. I don't feel that I know Jandu especially well, but considering this book was once sold as one, instead of in 3 parts, it could probably be explained away by that. I do like Keshan and his relationship with his family, and I like Tarek as a character. Overall, I enjoyed it and am looking forward to reading the next instalment.
Keshan is back in his country after being banished for 5 years. Within the next year, a new king will be named, and Keshan, who wants to abolish the caste system, is interested in the politics of it. Because there are two lines for the regent to choose from in order to continue the succession. And one of the contenders appears to support his views. But someone catches Keshan's eye, and that someone turns out to be one of the brothers of the contender in the other line. With intrigue and political jockeying in abundance, Keshan and Jandu have to be careful who they align themselves with, and try not to get caught while indulging in their attraction to one another, because that is completely forbidden.
I enjoyed this. The world building was quality, and the plot was intriguing. I'm a little bit wary about Darvad and his intentions. He comes across to me as an ultimate politician, who will say anything to get the vote and support and then do whatever he wants afterward, going back on promises made. Jandu and Keshan were a little too insta love for me, even though they did get to know one another over time. It just seemed like they went from slaking their lust to "twue wuv" within a blink of an eye, and no communication in between. Especially since Keshan didn't approve of how Jandu viewed the lower castes, and Jandu couldn't seem to understand Keshan's point of view. That's not a little niggle for a relationship; that's a big freaking deal. I don't feel that I know Jandu especially well, but considering this book was once sold as one, instead of in 3 parts, it could probably be explained away by that. I do like Keshan and his relationship with his family, and I like Tarek as a character. Overall, I enjoyed it and am looking forward to reading the next instalment.
January 28, 2018
2.5, rounded up to 3
so the concept of the world is really cool, like i've never read a fantasy book thats based on india so that was really neat?? and the caste system, and the use of magic, and the sort of overarching idea to eliminate the social groups and the strict rules
like that was all neato
the plot of the book fell pretty flat for me tho. one of the main focuses was the romance, and it was honestly???? a little boring??? both characters were relatively interesting on their own, tho they weren't super developed or anything and didn't develop much through the book (especially keshan), but the romance felt rushed and sort of out of nowhere
like they go from 'yea lets just have fun and flirt' to like suddenly being like 'woah i love u' without any emotional development
and then the climax of the book was not good for me either
like the plan to split up the kingdom was exciting like ! woah interesting twist
but then the gambling scene was boring, mostly because the exact plan was spelled out earlier with no deviations from that plot
so it was like oh already knew what was happening and how it was gonna go
and the gamblin brother, like we are never shown the extent of his gambling problem
like its an issue of being told that hes a gambler but never shown, so the scene where he is literally willing to gamble his brother away just seems out of character compared to what we've been shown
i think the 'tell not show' was used a lot, tho that was the most obvious point
some of the writing is really nice tho, but there are some instances where the language didn't really match up with the overall feel of the book, like modern language trying to be mixed with a historical feel and it didnt really work
not awful, but not something i'll revisit
might eventually continue with the series, but it definitely didn't make me excited to continue
so the concept of the world is really cool, like i've never read a fantasy book thats based on india so that was really neat?? and the caste system, and the use of magic, and the sort of overarching idea to eliminate the social groups and the strict rules
like that was all neato
the plot of the book fell pretty flat for me tho. one of the main focuses was the romance, and it was honestly???? a little boring??? both characters were relatively interesting on their own, tho they weren't super developed or anything and didn't develop much through the book (especially keshan), but the romance felt rushed and sort of out of nowhere
like they go from 'yea lets just have fun and flirt' to like suddenly being like 'woah i love u' without any emotional development
and then the climax of the book was not good for me either
like the plan to split up the kingdom was exciting like ! woah interesting twist
but then the gambling scene was boring, mostly because the exact plan was spelled out earlier with no deviations from that plot
so it was like oh already knew what was happening and how it was gonna go
and the gamblin brother, like we are never shown the extent of his gambling problem
like its an issue of being told that hes a gambler but never shown, so the scene where he is literally willing to gamble his brother away just seems out of character compared to what we've been shown
i think the 'tell not show' was used a lot, tho that was the most obvious point
some of the writing is really nice tho, but there are some instances where the language didn't really match up with the overall feel of the book, like modern language trying to be mixed with a historical feel and it didnt really work
not awful, but not something i'll revisit
might eventually continue with the series, but it definitely didn't make me excited to continue
February 25, 2019
I've had this among my Goodreads recommendations for ages so when I saw it on Kindle for a dollar I thought, why not?
I have a hard time rating this.
I LOVE the setting, I mean, how often do you stumble across fantasy set in an India-inspired society? The caste system and all of that is very interesting, though I would have liked to get a deeper look into their religion. As I said, it's inspired by India but as far as I could tell, they had a monotheistic religion with a bunch of prophets. Since their society is pretty much built around their religion (it dictates their laws, is what keeps the caste system in place etc), I felt like that might have been worth expanding on.
Now, the thing that really bugged me was that sometimes the writing style was really good, but most of the time, especially regarding Keshan's and Jandu's relationship, I felt like there was a lot of telling instead of showing. As individual characters, they're ok. Keshan is a bit boring in my opinion, but Jandu has potential for some good character development. But I'm not invested in their relationship at all, because I keep getting told that they love each other but I'm not actually feeling it. Even though this problem was most prominent in the depiction of their relationship, it sometimes bled into the writing elsewhere too, like some of Jandu's introspection and other important plot points (yes, I'm talking about the gambling scheme. It could have been handled more delicately). It's just too straightforward.
As a reader, I don't want to be handed all the information on a silver platter. I want to have to work for it a bit. A complex character is no fun if I get all the complexity explicitly explained to me.
Not sure if I will continue the series or not. Time will tell, I guess.
I have a hard time rating this.
I LOVE the setting, I mean, how often do you stumble across fantasy set in an India-inspired society? The caste system and all of that is very interesting, though I would have liked to get a deeper look into their religion. As I said, it's inspired by India but as far as I could tell, they had a monotheistic religion with a bunch of prophets. Since their society is pretty much built around their religion (it dictates their laws, is what keeps the caste system in place etc), I felt like that might have been worth expanding on.
Now, the thing that really bugged me was that sometimes the writing style was really good, but most of the time, especially regarding Keshan's and Jandu's relationship, I felt like there was a lot of telling instead of showing. As individual characters, they're ok. Keshan is a bit boring in my opinion, but Jandu has potential for some good character development. But I'm not invested in their relationship at all, because I keep getting told that they love each other but I'm not actually feeling it. Even though this problem was most prominent in the depiction of their relationship, it sometimes bled into the writing elsewhere too, like some of Jandu's introspection and other important plot points (yes, I'm talking about the gambling scheme. It could have been handled more delicately). It's just too straightforward.
As a reader, I don't want to be handed all the information on a silver platter. I want to have to work for it a bit. A complex character is no fun if I get all the complexity explicitly explained to me.
Not sure if I will continue the series or not. Time will tell, I guess.
November 25, 2018
This one is hard to rate. The depth and complexity of it is very rare in the m/m world. That alone makes it stand out. I feel technically Astrid accomplishes a solid 1st part to an epic tale. The world building, character building, and plot building were all superb. This is not a romance. It is not what drives the story.
When I read, I do not read looking for editing issues. I only take note when I'm thrown off my read, or especially if I'm completely thrown out of a story. No issues stood out along those lines for me.
I think most issues with this story will be preference based and not technical. It is different and unique in a lot of ways. But, if you don't enjoy court intrigue, and long story arcs, then this read will probably not be for you. If you are looking for lots of hot sex, this is not for you. If you are looking for light and easy, this is not for you. There are some heart wrenching moments and no sudden changes of heart (at least in this first installment). The characters all have strengths and weaknesses including the 2 m/c's. They are not perfect and most truly love their kingdom despite mutually exclusive views being held by the camps of the 2 possible kings. Though you may agree with the ideology of one, you might find yourself fitting for the characters of the other.
If you are looking for something different and the blurb sounds interesting, then I think you will like if not love the start to this trilogy.
When I read, I do not read looking for editing issues. I only take note when I'm thrown off my read, or especially if I'm completely thrown out of a story. No issues stood out along those lines for me.
I think most issues with this story will be preference based and not technical. It is different and unique in a lot of ways. But, if you don't enjoy court intrigue, and long story arcs, then this read will probably not be for you. If you are looking for lots of hot sex, this is not for you. If you are looking for light and easy, this is not for you. There are some heart wrenching moments and no sudden changes of heart (at least in this first installment). The characters all have strengths and weaknesses including the 2 m/c's. They are not perfect and most truly love their kingdom despite mutually exclusive views being held by the camps of the 2 possible kings. Though you may agree with the ideology of one, you might find yourself fitting for the characters of the other.
If you are looking for something different and the blurb sounds interesting, then I think you will like if not love the start to this trilogy.
January 15, 2021
I am conflicted. I liked this book, it kept my attention but I think it had the potential to be magnificent. I would have liked to see deeper character exploration with the supporting characters and some more exploration into the demon world, more shartas too, but it was a solid book. It touched on everything it would have needed to be a truly memorable story but just didn't go all the way. I may get around to reading the other books in the series one day and I do have high hopes for them.
On the completely other hand, this book threw me for a loop. When I first read it I had no idea it was based on the Mahabharata, a Hindu religious text. It actually inspired me to read the original story and look into a lot of other Hindu texts which was a very fascinating experience. That alone bumps this book up a few notches for me. As someone unfamiliar with Hinduism I have no reference for the handling of the subject matter (good or bad), but it did interest me enough to do further research which I think is a good thing.
On the completely other hand, this book threw me for a loop. When I first read it I had no idea it was based on the Mahabharata, a Hindu religious text. It actually inspired me to read the original story and look into a lot of other Hindu texts which was a very fascinating experience. That alone bumps this book up a few notches for me. As someone unfamiliar with Hinduism I have no reference for the handling of the subject matter (good or bad), but it did interest me enough to do further research which I think is a good thing.
July 11, 2019
(The review is for the trilogy)
The book has a compelling story, well-developed characters and adequate world-building. Especially, the character growth of protagonists (compare insipid Jandu in the beginning with relatively thoughtful Jandu of the ending) is praise-worthy. Although, I also liked the side story with Tarek and his struggles.
However, the constant use of 21th century parlance in a seemingly eastern-inspired world breaks the aura of the fantasy. Additionally, there are some anachronisms and/or spatial dissonances, for instance, the use of Roman months to refer to different times of the year could have easily been avoided. Therefore, I rate the trilogy 3 out of 5.
July 24, 2018
It's a good m/m fantasy novel, the writing style is a bit simple but the best in this book is the world-building and the universe. I was surprised to find myself more interested by the political intrigues than the romance. By the end of this first book, I was impatient to see how the political situation would develop.
August 9, 2025
God I needed this book. It has been awhile since I read a historical romance fantasy and I missed it a lot.
I have hade this book on my reading list for years and finally I decided to try it and I’m really glad I did. The characters and their relationships are well flushed out and nothing seems rushed. This is a great start to a series and you are not overwhelmed with the world building.
I have hade this book on my reading list for years and finally I decided to try it and I’m really glad I did. The characters and their relationships are well flushed out and nothing seems rushed. This is a great start to a series and you are not overwhelmed with the world building.
April 8, 2018
The main character was really annoying and I had no idea why his boyfriend was into him!
April 29, 2020
Undeniably well written, but it stressed me out too much for me to be able to say I really enjoyed it.
May 18, 2012
I liked this book--didn't love it. The story was adequate, and I thought the insights into addiction were great. I found the world interesting, and I loved that it was Indian in flavor instead of always being Celtic or Scandinavian or some other Euro flavor. The food sounded great and the people were so beautiful. So that was cool.
I was a little disappointed by the prose. It was a little awkward--not very awkward, but just a little awkward nearly all the time. Some turns of phrase just shot me out of the action. Also, some of the stuff that happened was too far-fetched for my willing suspension of disbelief. I can't really go into it without spoiling, but the climax, I felt, was reached in a way that just didn't sit well with me.
Finally, I was not _completely_ convinced that these men were men. Mostly, though. And I loved Jandu during sex.
Overall, I thought this was an interesting story with some interestingly flawed characters and okay pacing. I'm not sure I want to continue on to part two, but I also do not regret having read the first part. The proofreading was relatively good--I didn't spot any systematic errors. So if you like your men kind of soft around the edges and your sex romantic; and if you don't mind a slightly awkward turn of phrase, then I'd recommend giving this one a try.
I was a little disappointed by the prose. It was a little awkward--not very awkward, but just a little awkward nearly all the time. Some turns of phrase just shot me out of the action. Also, some of the stuff that happened was too far-fetched for my willing suspension of disbelief. I can't really go into it without spoiling, but the climax, I felt, was reached in a way that just didn't sit well with me.
Finally, I was not _completely_ convinced that these men were men. Mostly, though. And I loved Jandu during sex.
Overall, I thought this was an interesting story with some interestingly flawed characters and okay pacing. I'm not sure I want to continue on to part two, but I also do not regret having read the first part. The proofreading was relatively good--I didn't spot any systematic errors. So if you like your men kind of soft around the edges and your sex romantic; and if you don't mind a slightly awkward turn of phrase, then I'd recommend giving this one a try.
Read
March 24, 2022Pros: brown people in a non-western based culture, decent writing
Cons: Jandu tbh (but he's a HUGE one), sex scenes I wanted to skip over
I wanted to give this book a two because it upset me, but the writing and storytelling were pretty good for the most part so it goes one star up.
Why did this book upset me. Well, I have a chronic issue with the main couples of books and this is kind of at the top of my list right now. I literally hated Jandu and I hated his romance with Keshan. Like, I loved Keshan and I wish more of the book had been in his point of view, to be honest.
The construction of a caste system was kind of interesting. Not necessarily innovative, but it was nice to see brown people which always fills me with happiness. It was nice to have the point of view of Tarek sometimes because I actually love him and I would totally be into reading Tarek/Keshan fanfiction. I'm assuming Jandu with magically come to care for all classes after living in exile or something but I'm not sure I'm into it enough to find out. I feel like I'll still hate him. Which is weird because I'm often into self-centred assholes. *shrug*
Honestly the book wasn't too bad but Jandu ruined the book for me and so did the sex, which probably isn't too much for some people but it was annoying for me. Go ahead and read it, if you'd like.
Cons: Jandu tbh (but he's a HUGE one), sex scenes I wanted to skip over
I wanted to give this book a two because it upset me, but the writing and storytelling were pretty good for the most part so it goes one star up.
Why did this book upset me. Well, I have a chronic issue with the main couples of books and this is kind of at the top of my list right now. I literally hated Jandu and I hated his romance with Keshan. Like, I loved Keshan and I wish more of the book had been in his point of view, to be honest.
The construction of a caste system was kind of interesting. Not necessarily innovative, but it was nice to see brown people which always fills me with happiness. It was nice to have the point of view of Tarek sometimes because I actually love him and I would totally be into reading Tarek/Keshan fanfiction. I'm assuming Jandu with magically come to care for all classes after living in exile or something but I'm not sure I'm into it enough to find out. I feel like I'll still hate him. Which is weird because I'm often into self-centred assholes. *shrug*
Honestly the book wasn't too bad but Jandu ruined the book for me and so did the sex, which probably isn't too much for some people but it was annoying for me. Go ahead and read it, if you'd like.
did-not-finish
August 6, 2014Some stories revolve around a "big secret" between the MCs and the entire book is spent waiting for the other shoe to drop. Other stories have MCs who hate each other.
Yet in either of these kinds of stories, there is hope. Something romance and happy ending to look forward to.
In contrast, here, Tarek's storyline overshadows Jandu and Keshan's love story. Other reviewers talk about the juxtaposition between these two kinds of love (well, one is perhaps more obsession than love), but it doesn't change the fact that I wasn't able to enjoy Jandu and Keshan's story because Tarek's ill-fatedlove obsession loomed over everything.
Say what you will, but I think this story would have been just as effective and enjoyable without Tarek being featured in such a prominent role.
DNF at 49%
Yet in either of these kinds of stories, there is hope. Something romance and happy ending to look forward to.
In contrast, here, Tarek's storyline overshadows Jandu and Keshan's love story. Other reviewers talk about the juxtaposition between these two kinds of love (well, one is perhaps more obsession than love), but it doesn't change the fact that I wasn't able to enjoy Jandu and Keshan's story because Tarek's ill-fated
Say what you will, but I think this story would have been just as effective and enjoyable without Tarek being featured in such a prominent role.
DNF at 49%
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 1, 2012
Astrid Amara was one of the first non-yaoi books I started to read. Now days I keep away from Japanese gay comics as I find them too fictional and stupid. I prefer novels on them.
This book will spoil you. I find myself comparing many gay novels to how Astrid Amara writes. There has to be good plot. There has to be a moment of the romance to proceed and the characters to get to know each other.
I would have given five stars if not for the wife. One of the characters was married, which was suddenly told somewhere in the middle of the book and then brushed under neath the carpet. Like it didn't matter at all. It didn't matter, but then again, she could have been edited out and made the book even better.
This book will spoil you. I find myself comparing many gay novels to how Astrid Amara writes. There has to be good plot. There has to be a moment of the romance to proceed and the characters to get to know each other.
I would have given five stars if not for the wife. One of the characters was married, which was suddenly told somewhere in the middle of the book and then brushed under neath the carpet. Like it didn't matter at all. It didn't matter, but then again, she could have been edited out and made the book even better.
November 30, 2012
Plunged in a society based on castes we are presented with a special moment in its history, when the Regent must chose which one of two half-brother Princes must rule. In the middle of the political schemes there are some very interesting characters that promise to have more of an impact than they appear to in the beginning: the youngest Prince (brother of the ones battling for power and also "the archer"), a powerful lord that is only half human and has the gift of seeing the future and my third favorite character - a man that has impressed a Prince with his skills and has risen above his cast.
February 7, 2017
I wanted to like this but I just couldn't get into it. While the world building was great, I felt the characters were not as deep as they could have been, and the writing felt simplistic.
At times I felt like I was reading a fable, and if you like fables you will probably like this.
At times I felt like I was reading a fable, and if you like fables you will probably like this.
November 24, 2012
This is interesting in that it is heavily based in Indian Hindu culture and religion. Unfortunately, it is also meandering, seemingly arbitrary at times, and not very gripping. This is just the first quarter of the overall novel (and, for once, the author at least had the honesty to label it as such, rather than giving each fragment a separate title and pretending each was a complete novel), and as such one might expect that there will be more action and plot movement in the following installments.
August 7, 2013
To be honest, I was disappointed. I really liked the setting, and the characters. Keshan became my hero from the very start, and Jandu for all that he is stubborn was actually pretty endearing. I really liked Tarek too, if circumstances were different, he could have been a truly great man. Were he not in the influence of Darvad that is.
For the first few pages of the book, I was swept away. Enchanted. But it went downhill from there. It got a little dry, more descriptive than anything else. I hope the next book's better.
For the first few pages of the book, I was swept away. Enchanted. But it went downhill from there. It got a little dry, more descriptive than anything else. I hope the next book's better.
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