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Chronicles of Ylandre #5
Cross Purposes
With love, the line between happiness and heartache is all too easy to cross.
One of Ylandre’s most prominent nobles, Keosqe Deilen may have had it all in terms of wealth, power and social rank. But in matters of the heart, he was impoverished. Such was the consequence of falling in unrequited love. Though he hides that love and his sorrow well, a few inevitably see through his masquerade.
Young Tristen Marante is quick to discern Keosqe’s pain. His blunt sympathy is a balm to Keosqe’s wounded heart as much as his beauty is an effective distraction from the noble’s hopeless yearning. But Tristen is a skittish would-be lover, whose reluctance to express his affection is as much an impediment as the lack of reciprocation from Keosqe’s first love had been. Whereas Keosqe seeks intimacy, Tristen shies from it, suspicious of the motives behind his pursuit and unwilling to yield his heart so easily or soon.
With such different perspectives toward lust and love, is it any wonder their path to a common goal is strewn with stumbling blocks and paved with false impressions?
Contains hermaphroditism and explicit homoerotic sexual encounters.
One of Ylandre’s most prominent nobles, Keosqe Deilen may have had it all in terms of wealth, power and social rank. But in matters of the heart, he was impoverished. Such was the consequence of falling in unrequited love. Though he hides that love and his sorrow well, a few inevitably see through his masquerade.
Young Tristen Marante is quick to discern Keosqe’s pain. His blunt sympathy is a balm to Keosqe’s wounded heart as much as his beauty is an effective distraction from the noble’s hopeless yearning. But Tristen is a skittish would-be lover, whose reluctance to express his affection is as much an impediment as the lack of reciprocation from Keosqe’s first love had been. Whereas Keosqe seeks intimacy, Tristen shies from it, suspicious of the motives behind his pursuit and unwilling to yield his heart so easily or soon.
With such different perspectives toward lust and love, is it any wonder their path to a common goal is strewn with stumbling blocks and paved with false impressions?
Contains hermaphroditism and explicit homoerotic sexual encounters.
277 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 14, 2013
9 people are currently reading
233 people want to read
About the author
Eressë
10 books363 followersAKA Eressë Belley
Eressë has always enjoyed reading and writing historical fantasy. Indeed, her pen name is taken from the elvish language J.R.R. Tolkien created for his fantasy epic The Lord of the Rings, a favorite of hers since way back when. However, most of her stories turned into M/M romances because the male leads had more chemistry with each other than with the females. Why she wrote them that way she doesn't know. But this penchant for M/M fantasy romance became the wellspring of her series Chronicles of Ylandre.
Eressë lives in Southeast Asia with her husband, three sons and one dog. She also likes to cook and bake and is a professed chocoholic. But her first love is and always will be writing stories.
Blog: Tales by Eressë
Eressë has always enjoyed reading and writing historical fantasy. Indeed, her pen name is taken from the elvish language J.R.R. Tolkien created for his fantasy epic The Lord of the Rings, a favorite of hers since way back when. However, most of her stories turned into M/M romances because the male leads had more chemistry with each other than with the females. Why she wrote them that way she doesn't know. But this penchant for M/M fantasy romance became the wellspring of her series Chronicles of Ylandre.
Eressë lives in Southeast Asia with her husband, three sons and one dog. She also likes to cook and bake and is a professed chocoholic. But her first love is and always will be writing stories.
Blog: Tales by Eressë
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
December 23, 2015
12/23/15: Series RE-READ in preparation for newest book...
3.5 Stars
Annnnnnd continuing on my awesome man on man on hermaphrodite paranormal binge...
Awwwwwwww yeah!
3.5 Stars
Annnnnnd continuing on my awesome man on man on hermaphrodite paranormal binge...
Awwwwwwww yeah!
July 17, 2013
First off, let me say that I love this series and that it is my absolute favorite M/M fantasy series of books. The author does such a freakin' amazing job of world building that it's beyond belief.
I was so excited to read the latest installment in the Chronicles of Ylandre. By now I am much more comfortable and familiar with the whole world - and their expressions - and the geography, that I don't constantly (only once in a while) have to stop and look up terms in the glossary to keep my head on straight.
I didn't give this one five stars because I really didn't connect with the characters and their love story. Keosqe & Tristan were at arms length for so long and then after they got together it wasn't with the same sort of passion (and deep love) like I found with the previous stories.
Don't get me wrong - I still really liked it and I am super glad I read it - and I pray Eresse keeps writing many more in this saga. I think this one is probably my least favorite of the group. I re-read these stories pretty often and who knows? Maybe on the next read I will like it more because my expectations won't be so high.
I was so excited to read the latest installment in the Chronicles of Ylandre. By now I am much more comfortable and familiar with the whole world - and their expressions - and the geography, that I don't constantly (only once in a while) have to stop and look up terms in the glossary to keep my head on straight.
I didn't give this one five stars because I really didn't connect with the characters and their love story. Keosqe & Tristan were at arms length for so long and then after they got together it wasn't with the same sort of passion (and deep love) like I found with the previous stories.
Don't get me wrong - I still really liked it and I am super glad I read it - and I pray Eresse keeps writing many more in this saga. I think this one is probably my least favorite of the group. I re-read these stories pretty often and who knows? Maybe on the next read I will like it more because my expectations won't be so high.
June 2, 2016
4.5STARS
This really is quite a unique high fantasy series, I almost didn't read it because I thought it involved mpreg, but I was SO WRONG. It's a race of hermaphroditic people that have all become masculine in nature, as women died off century's ago. This series also does something I usually hate with a passion too, making each book revolve around a new budding romance.
Unlike a lot of other books that do this though, all the other MC's, so far, from books 1-5 make more than just fleeting appearances. That's why I'm enjoying it so much, I really hate series where book #1 become the authors pool of characters for match making new novel's, most of them to the point where you don't hear another word about the other characters and they should be marked as stand alone's.
Aside from the excellent writing, as it's also written with a slightly different speaking style, the books are also crossing over the same time periods in most places and it's done brilliantly. Occasionally you get to see some scenes from different perspectives as it's from other peoples's eyes. The storyline's are great and the hermaphroditism is intriguing.
This really is quite a unique high fantasy series, I almost didn't read it because I thought it involved mpreg, but I was SO WRONG. It's a race of hermaphroditic people that have all become masculine in nature, as women died off century's ago. This series also does something I usually hate with a passion too, making each book revolve around a new budding romance.
Unlike a lot of other books that do this though, all the other MC's, so far, from books 1-5 make more than just fleeting appearances. That's why I'm enjoying it so much, I really hate series where book #1 become the authors pool of characters for match making new novel's, most of them to the point where you don't hear another word about the other characters and they should be marked as stand alone's.
Aside from the excellent writing, as it's also written with a slightly different speaking style, the books are also crossing over the same time periods in most places and it's done brilliantly. Occasionally you get to see some scenes from different perspectives as it's from other peoples's eyes. The storyline's are great and the hermaphroditism is intriguing.
April 15, 2019
YAY! I GOT IT!!!!! :) Be jealous people ;) And oh, trust me, it'll make you cry. Tugs on my heartstrings every single time I read her books. I was bawling my eyes out at 12 plus A.M in the freakin morning. BUUUUUUUT it's sort of like a cross *the irony* between hallowed bond (dylen & riordan) and heartstrings (ash & Eiren) It's still good (I'm a loyal fan) but it definitely isn't her best. She still has loads of potential :) I CAN'T WAIT FOR THE NEXT GODDAMN BOOK!!!
July 19, 2013
Blog Post: http://headouttheoven.blogspot.com/20...
My Rating: 5 of 5 Stars
With love, the line between happiness and heartache is all too easy to cross.
One of Ylandre’s most prominent nobles, Keosqe Deilen may have had it all in terms of wealth, power and social rank. But in matters of the heart, he was impoverished. Such was the consequence of falling in unrequited love. Though he hides that love and his sorrow well, a few inevitably see through his masquerade.
Young Tristen Marante is quick to discern Keosqe’s pain. His blunt sympathy is a balm to Keosqe’s wounded heart as much as his beauty is an effective distraction from the noble’s hopeless yearning. But Tristen is a skittish would-be lover, whose reluctance to express his affection is as much an impediment as the lack of reciprocation from Keosqe’s first love had been. Whereas Keosqe seeks intimacy, Tristen shies from it, suspicious of the motives behind his pursuit and unwilling to yield his heart so easily or soon.
With such different perspectives toward lust and love, is it any wonder their path to a common goal is strewn with stumbling blocks and paved with false impressions?
Although reading the books separately is no problem for each book is written to stand on its own, it is still best to read the series in order of publication. This way, the full experience of everything that is Ylandre can be read, enjoyed and eventually loved.
I connected with Tristen and Keosqe very well and I was really sympathetic to their plight. Tris is so young and his relationship with Kes could only be likened to that of a 18 year old immature young teenager with a man who could only be in his thirties or older if their world matched were Earth. This practically makes Kes a cradle snatcher. It is not surprising that their different levels of maturity and experience could ruin their chances for an angst-free relationship. Immaturity on Tris' part drove him to question something that should not be and Kes held on to him too tightly that it resulted to some bit of rebellion. And then there was the education or the college involved. What young teen would not want to go out with friends of their own age? Comes in Mirdan who makes things uncomfortable.
This love affair wove itself beautifully into the world that is Aisen. We are again made familiar with the history of the Deire and the course of events that leads us to this present year. All throughout the story, the readers get a chance to reflect once more on Rohyr's and Lassen's love story as well as the other major characters in this world like those of Dylen and Riodan and Ashrian Mithani who becomes Tristen's mentor.
I just had to give this a 5 stars, I could not help it. The beauty of Eressë's writing is her ability for continuity in her Chronicles of Ylandre Series that it astounds many readers, including myself. I noticed that it took her a looooong time to come up with Book #5 but when she finally did, she did not disappoint and pushes me to read the series all again. I wish to say this is a must read, but in doing so, I recommend this WHOLE series as a Must Read for those who never got the chance to read it.
My Rating: 5 of 5 Stars
With love, the line between happiness and heartache is all too easy to cross.
One of Ylandre’s most prominent nobles, Keosqe Deilen may have had it all in terms of wealth, power and social rank. But in matters of the heart, he was impoverished. Such was the consequence of falling in unrequited love. Though he hides that love and his sorrow well, a few inevitably see through his masquerade.
Young Tristen Marante is quick to discern Keosqe’s pain. His blunt sympathy is a balm to Keosqe’s wounded heart as much as his beauty is an effective distraction from the noble’s hopeless yearning. But Tristen is a skittish would-be lover, whose reluctance to express his affection is as much an impediment as the lack of reciprocation from Keosqe’s first love had been. Whereas Keosqe seeks intimacy, Tristen shies from it, suspicious of the motives behind his pursuit and unwilling to yield his heart so easily or soon.
With such different perspectives toward lust and love, is it any wonder their path to a common goal is strewn with stumbling blocks and paved with false impressions?
Although reading the books separately is no problem for each book is written to stand on its own, it is still best to read the series in order of publication. This way, the full experience of everything that is Ylandre can be read, enjoyed and eventually loved.
I connected with Tristen and Keosqe very well and I was really sympathetic to their plight. Tris is so young and his relationship with Kes could only be likened to that of a 18 year old immature young teenager with a man who could only be in his thirties or older if their world matched were Earth. This practically makes Kes a cradle snatcher. It is not surprising that their different levels of maturity and experience could ruin their chances for an angst-free relationship. Immaturity on Tris' part drove him to question something that should not be and Kes held on to him too tightly that it resulted to some bit of rebellion. And then there was the education or the college involved. What young teen would not want to go out with friends of their own age? Comes in Mirdan who makes things uncomfortable.
This love affair wove itself beautifully into the world that is Aisen. We are again made familiar with the history of the Deire and the course of events that leads us to this present year. All throughout the story, the readers get a chance to reflect once more on Rohyr's and Lassen's love story as well as the other major characters in this world like those of Dylen and Riodan and Ashrian Mithani who becomes Tristen's mentor.
I just had to give this a 5 stars, I could not help it. The beauty of Eressë's writing is her ability for continuity in her Chronicles of Ylandre Series that it astounds many readers, including myself. I noticed that it took her a looooong time to come up with Book #5 but when she finally did, she did not disappoint and pushes me to read the series all again. I wish to say this is a must read, but in doing so, I recommend this WHOLE series as a Must Read for those who never got the chance to read it.
April 3, 2014
After peeking in a couple of reviews I expected another disaster like Reijir&Naeth's story. But no, Tristen surprised me. Despite being much younger than Keosque, somewhat dependent on him, and having a crush on the handsome Dair/royal cousin/Minister of Internal Affairs - he is no starry-eyed, flustered, flushing/blushing chick. Au contraire, Tristen is a hard-ass...he is so wary, guarded, proud, sensible..at times too much. To the point that I felt sorry for Keosque. Despite his being more experienced - he was very vulnerable with Tristen.
So, Tristen was a leading candidate for my favorite hero in the series - except at times he showed traits that I disliked very much. I absolutely hated his attitude toward his brother, Veare. Yes, at first it felt right, him defending Keosque and dissing his egotistical sibling..but then it got too much. The indignation with Veare (who never did him anything bad) started turning into contempt..I didn't like Tristen's disdain that Veare would carry a child for his husband. Only because the husband was of lower standing in society..so what? Tristen was being a judgmental little shit - so not attractive in a hero.
That being said, I really enjoyed the story - drama, jealousy and all. The only thing I missed was
July 18, 2013
So I went and reread every book in this series before I read this one, (in two days mind you) so I was completely immersed in the world. I love this series so much that I would happily read every book that's gonna be written, repeatedly. I loved this one just as much as the others. I am just hoping that the next book is ready to go soon, because I really want to continue reading about this awesome world!! Eressë you are one gifted author :)
December 11, 2015
This is such a fabulous series. I'm glad I put off reading it to have six books to read in a row. Unfortunately I only have one left before I must wait for the other couples books to be written.
As for this book, another great addition. We get more insight into the world and its characters. The whole story is slowly moving forward. I am getting over going back to the past for each couple, it must make it difficult for the author working out the time lines.
I do agree with others that the chemistry between the MCs wasn't as great in this book. I would say that was due to Tristan being unable to admit his own feelings. Im not sure if it was his youth or circumstance with his family that was reason for this, it was never really made clear. I didn't really warm up to him until the end of the book. I still loved the book and was hoping for another HEA.
As for this book, another great addition. We get more insight into the world and its characters. The whole story is slowly moving forward. I am getting over going back to the past for each couple, it must make it difficult for the author working out the time lines.
I do agree with others that the chemistry between the MCs wasn't as great in this book. I would say that was due to Tristan being unable to admit his own feelings. Im not sure if it was his youth or circumstance with his family that was reason for this, it was never really made clear. I didn't really warm up to him until the end of the book. I still loved the book and was hoping for another HEA.
November 8, 2014
4.0 Stars
Confession: The Chronicles of Ylandre series is a guilty indulgence. I love it. The writing is wonderful, the world-building superb, and the characters colorful. So why the guilt? *sigh* MPreg. *blushes* It's ... well, weird ... and silly ... and sometimes gross. But so what!?! I love this series. Prego men and all!
Book 5 was May-December romance and very angsty. Verrry angsty. The emo in me was in hog heaven. I enjoyed both Keosqe and Tristen. I loved that Tristan owned up to what he did and that Keosqe didn't forgive and forget easily. I adored the fact that these two had to work for for their HEA. Yay!
Bottom line: Satisfyingly angsty. :P
Confession: The Chronicles of Ylandre series is a guilty indulgence. I love it. The writing is wonderful, the world-building superb, and the characters colorful. So why the guilt? *sigh* MPreg. *blushes* It's ... well, weird ... and silly ... and sometimes gross. But so what!?! I love this series. Prego men and all!
Book 5 was May-December romance and very angsty. Verrry angsty. The emo in me was in hog heaven. I enjoyed both Keosqe and Tristen. I loved that Tristan owned up to what he did and that Keosqe didn't forgive and forget easily. I adored the fact that these two had to work for for their HEA. Yay!
Bottom line: Satisfyingly angsty. :P
July 16, 2013
I love it!
I love Ylandre, love Keosqe, love Tristen, even Mirdan( as a character).
I just can't get enough of the Essendris and their kins. All the heart aching, omitting, misunderstanding.. I don't normally like them in a story, but somehow the author managed to keep me reading and not throwing my kindle to the closest wall.
The characters are ever prudent, at the same time, incredibly sexy. All Ylandrin traditions, customs are still fascinating and undoubtably unique.
I can't wait for the next couple!! Oh well, something to look forward to 2014, I guess. >./
I love Ylandre, love Keosqe, love Tristen, even Mirdan( as a character).
I just can't get enough of the Essendris and their kins. All the heart aching, omitting, misunderstanding.. I don't normally like them in a story, but somehow the author managed to keep me reading and not throwing my kindle to the closest wall.
The characters are ever prudent, at the same time, incredibly sexy. All Ylandrin traditions, customs are still fascinating and undoubtably unique.
I can't wait for the next couple!! Oh well, something to look forward to 2014, I guess. >./
July 24, 2013
It was okay, but I felt that it was too repetitive. This is both in terms of the theme of the book (the guardian, and betrayal) and the events in the story (X jealous of Y, Y jealous of X and repeat). It was like a combination of the previous three books in the series, but weaker.
On the plus side, due the overlapping themes many of the main protagonists in the previous books made appearances in this one to help the main guys.
On the plus side, due the overlapping themes many of the main protagonists in the previous books made appearances in this one to help the main guys.
August 15, 2013
I love this series. I've enjoyed all the books, this one though was not quite up to par. Keosque is older and should be wiser but not really. Anyway, Keosque takes in Trisent when he comes to the city to study medicine and even though Tristen is young they start a relationship. I found this book blah because the whole problem could have been solved with one word: communication. Keosque over reacted and he annoyed me.
December 9, 2025
This is the last in the series so far and I really hope the author brings out more of them. Like the previous stories in this series I was drawn in and felt every emotion alongside the MCs. Again the story runs parallel with the others for some of the time and the reader gets to read about them from the MCs point of view. The way the author tugs at the reader's heartstrings is very intense and there were many passages that had me near tears.
October 12, 2021
In my eyes, one of the better books of the series.
I enjoyed the characters and especially that Tristen was headstrong and blunt, and didn't immediately give in and grovel when he didn't understand why what he did may have been wrong. Somehow, Keosqe was also one of the more likable love interests. Despite being perpetually horny (like every character in the series), he often came across as a man who is actually able to hold back and keep it in his pants.
Eresse's way of writing is wonderful and certainly raised my standards for fantasy stories.
The only thing I didn't like was that the story, once they got back together, felt too quickly concluded. I may have missed it, but I didn't see them talking about marriage, the future, or whether they could be together as true spouses. But they went straight from making up to saying they're already betrothed.
I enjoyed the characters and especially that Tristen was headstrong and blunt, and didn't immediately give in and grovel when he didn't understand why what he did may have been wrong. Somehow, Keosqe was also one of the more likable love interests. Despite being perpetually horny (like every character in the series), he often came across as a man who is actually able to hold back and keep it in his pants.
Eresse's way of writing is wonderful and certainly raised my standards for fantasy stories.
The only thing I didn't like was that the story, once they got back together, felt too quickly concluded. I may have missed it, but I didn't see them talking about marriage, the future, or whether they could be together as true spouses. But they went straight from making up to saying they're already betrothed.
September 3, 2021
Here is my tier list for the Chronicles of Ylandre books:
Tier 1 (great): Heartstrings, Hallowed Bond
Tier 2 (good): Sacred Fate, Shield Mate, Duty or Desire
Tier 3 (okay): In Fine Form
Tier 4 (bad): Cross Purposes
Tier 5 (awful): By Chance Met
This book was a massive disappointment after how good Heartstrings was. Both of the main characters were so unlikeable. Keosqe is manipulative and perverted, and Tristan is a snobby little bitch. This book isn't as godawful as By Chance Met because at least the MCs have personalities instead of being tropes and at least Keosqe isn't a rapist like Reijir.
The story was reasonably well-written and the plot might have had potential if the leads even had a smidge of chemistry.
The rest is under spoilers.
Tristen is such a massive snob, and the way he treats his brother, Veare, is inexcusable. Yeah, Veare was a little annoying, but he didn't do anything particularly bad other than... like gossip?? Marry rich to provide a better life for himself and his brother??? I also didn't like how Tristen kept on butting into Keosqe and Veare's friendship. It's presented in way that praises Tristen for "protecting" Keosqe, but the fact of the matter is that Veare and Keosqe are best friends since childhood. If Veare wants to go to Keosqe's house, he can. If he wants to ask Keosqe to do something, it's Keosqe's responsibility to say no. Tristen is just being jealous and immature.
Also - he was such a judgmental prick when Veare revealed he was going to carry the baby. Instead of being happy for his brother, Tristen looked down at him and even told the poor kid that he hopes that he doesn't grow up like his father! What the HELL, Tristen! I couldn't help but compare the brotherly relationship between Veare and Tristen to that between Ashrian and Aeldan in Heartstrings. Ashrian and Aeldan had a healthy, supportive, and loving relationship that they clearly both leaned on. I don't expect every sibling to be like that, but surely some basic respect and brotherly love should be seen, especially as Veare and Tristen relied so heavily on each after they were orphaned.
There's so many instances like this: where Tristen is snooty and rude for no good reason. He has good points some of the time, and I liked how he didn't roll over and die for Keosqe in the first part of the book. But, I hated how the book supported Tristen's behavior, and he was never forced to confront how rude and unjust his behavior was to his brother.
That being said, at least Tristen wasn't as self-involved and manipulative as Keosqe. Keosqe's behavior skeeved me out throughout the book. First of all, he made sexual comments about an underage Tristen's body. Then, he openly lusted after a still underage Tristen. Then, he pressured Tristen to have sex with him. And then, he tried to keep Tristen to himself and damaged his friendships. Then, when he felt insecure about Tristen's new friendship, he pressured Tristen into having genital intercourse (the people in this world have a hidden "birthing channel" aka vagina that they're only supposed to "yield" to people they plan to marry).
Tristen, although he showed signs of lust for Keosqe, just barely seemed to put up with him and his behavior for the first half of the book. After Keosqe threw him out, only then did he do a bait and switch and decide he was in love with him. I honestly didn't buy it. Tristen seemed to just realize how good he had it and want it back instead of actually evaluating his feelings and trying to build the foundations of a strong relationship. I actually wished that Tristen had dated/slept with other people, then met Keosqe again when he had grown up and gotten experience with love.
Also Keosqe's sudden love was just weird. One moment, he was laughing at a joke Tristen made to distract him from his sadness over his love for Tristen's brother. The next, he was all in to being in love with Tristen. Seriously made no sense.
Tier 1 (great): Heartstrings, Hallowed Bond
Tier 2 (good): Sacred Fate, Shield Mate, Duty or Desire
Tier 3 (okay): In Fine Form
Tier 4 (bad): Cross Purposes
Tier 5 (awful): By Chance Met
This book was a massive disappointment after how good Heartstrings was. Both of the main characters were so unlikeable. Keosqe is manipulative and perverted, and Tristan is a snobby little bitch. This book isn't as godawful as By Chance Met because at least the MCs have personalities instead of being tropes and at least Keosqe isn't a rapist like Reijir.
The story was reasonably well-written and the plot might have had potential if the leads even had a smidge of chemistry.
The rest is under spoilers.
Tristen is such a massive snob, and the way he treats his brother, Veare, is inexcusable. Yeah, Veare was a little annoying, but he didn't do anything particularly bad other than... like gossip?? Marry rich to provide a better life for himself and his brother??? I also didn't like how Tristen kept on butting into Keosqe and Veare's friendship. It's presented in way that praises Tristen for "protecting" Keosqe, but the fact of the matter is that Veare and Keosqe are best friends since childhood. If Veare wants to go to Keosqe's house, he can. If he wants to ask Keosqe to do something, it's Keosqe's responsibility to say no. Tristen is just being jealous and immature.
Also - he was such a judgmental prick when Veare revealed he was going to carry the baby. Instead of being happy for his brother, Tristen looked down at him and even told the poor kid that he hopes that he doesn't grow up like his father! What the HELL, Tristen! I couldn't help but compare the brotherly relationship between Veare and Tristen to that between Ashrian and Aeldan in Heartstrings. Ashrian and Aeldan had a healthy, supportive, and loving relationship that they clearly both leaned on. I don't expect every sibling to be like that, but surely some basic respect and brotherly love should be seen, especially as Veare and Tristen relied so heavily on each after they were orphaned.
There's so many instances like this: where Tristen is snooty and rude for no good reason. He has good points some of the time, and I liked how he didn't roll over and die for Keosqe in the first part of the book. But, I hated how the book supported Tristen's behavior, and he was never forced to confront how rude and unjust his behavior was to his brother.
That being said, at least Tristen wasn't as self-involved and manipulative as Keosqe. Keosqe's behavior skeeved me out throughout the book. First of all, he made sexual comments about an underage Tristen's body. Then, he openly lusted after a still underage Tristen. Then, he pressured Tristen to have sex with him. And then, he tried to keep Tristen to himself and damaged his friendships. Then, when he felt insecure about Tristen's new friendship, he pressured Tristen into having genital intercourse (the people in this world have a hidden "birthing channel" aka vagina that they're only supposed to "yield" to people they plan to marry).
Tristen, although he showed signs of lust for Keosqe, just barely seemed to put up with him and his behavior for the first half of the book. After Keosqe threw him out, only then did he do a bait and switch and decide he was in love with him. I honestly didn't buy it. Tristen seemed to just realize how good he had it and want it back instead of actually evaluating his feelings and trying to build the foundations of a strong relationship. I actually wished that Tristen had dated/slept with other people, then met Keosqe again when he had grown up and gotten experience with love.
Also Keosqe's sudden love was just weird. One moment, he was laughing at a joke Tristen made to distract him from his sadness over his love for Tristen's brother. The next, he was all in to being in love with Tristen. Seriously made no sense.
October 23, 2013
Keosqe Deilen thar Essendri is heir to the ruling aristocrat of Sidona, as well as a cousin to the monarch Rohyr Essendri. Although Keosqe has the wealth to support a family in luxury, a love match does not seem to be in his future until he offers to share his home with his long time friend’s younger brother, Tristan Marante. Spending years in the same household slowly develops into a strong bond of love but not without the pain of heartache Keosqe and Tristan must undergo.
Cross Purposes is the fifth book in the Chronicles of Ylandre series. This is an intricate series that imitates a historical regency romance but with all male characters. The inhabitants of the planet Aisen are the results of the Naere, a race of hermaphrodites colonizing as well as breeding with the planet’s native people. The Naere colonists were a highly cultured warrior race, with mental power to heal or wound; they were also long-lived and strong. They could communicate without speaking out loud. Some of the Naere kept their breeding with the native gelra to the barest minimum consequently retaining much of the physical strength, endurance and most of the mind gifts, while others bred indiscriminately with the gelra, which resulted in the diminishment or disappearance of many of the characteristics of the Naere in succeeding generations.
Each book features a different couple whose storyline’s timeframe is parallel with the first book Sacred Fate. All of the characters are connected in some way to the royal family of Essendri. Keosqe is head of the Ministry of Internal Affairs. There is a spy in their midst Keosqe is attempting to hunt down while dealing with his unreciprocated love for Tristan. Unfortunately, Keosqe is not successful in hiding his emotions from his many cousins who all try to help. Not only is Tristan a gifted healer, he is very perceptive. Tristan is aware of Keosqe’s failed love life. Because of his own family’s fall from grace, Tristan fears being cast aside when Keosqe tires of him.
Eresse’s impressive Cross Purposes is a marvelously emotional saga that I thoroughly enjoyed.
Cross Purposes is the fifth book in the Chronicles of Ylandre series. This is an intricate series that imitates a historical regency romance but with all male characters. The inhabitants of the planet Aisen are the results of the Naere, a race of hermaphrodites colonizing as well as breeding with the planet’s native people. The Naere colonists were a highly cultured warrior race, with mental power to heal or wound; they were also long-lived and strong. They could communicate without speaking out loud. Some of the Naere kept their breeding with the native gelra to the barest minimum consequently retaining much of the physical strength, endurance and most of the mind gifts, while others bred indiscriminately with the gelra, which resulted in the diminishment or disappearance of many of the characteristics of the Naere in succeeding generations.
Each book features a different couple whose storyline’s timeframe is parallel with the first book Sacred Fate. All of the characters are connected in some way to the royal family of Essendri. Keosqe is head of the Ministry of Internal Affairs. There is a spy in their midst Keosqe is attempting to hunt down while dealing with his unreciprocated love for Tristan. Unfortunately, Keosqe is not successful in hiding his emotions from his many cousins who all try to help. Not only is Tristan a gifted healer, he is very perceptive. Tristan is aware of Keosqe’s failed love life. Because of his own family’s fall from grace, Tristan fears being cast aside when Keosqe tires of him.
Eresse’s impressive Cross Purposes is a marvelously emotional saga that I thoroughly enjoyed.
November 8, 2013
Okaayyy... I was pretty exited when I discovered that Eressë had just released her 5th book. I was screaming in delight and anticipation as I absolutely ADORE and LOVE her other 4 books. I ended up reading it in one sitting. :)
But this book turn out to be a disappointment... It just seems all too familiar... With issues very similar to book #3 (By Chance Met) and book #4 (Heartstring) - betrayal, deception and miscommunication (when couples simply don't discuss their issues). I thought that she could have come up with a better plot/climax... something different from her other books. And, this story of sympathy/unrequited love/ being treated or feeling like a substitute for his brother, sounds too familiar to the plot in Junjou Romantica (Japanese BL anime/manga). Especially the scene where Keosqe bared his emotions to a sympathetic Tristen, who seemed to have fallen in love with his brother admirer. And the fact that Keosqe's unrequited lover is Tristen's brother makes it all to similar.... sighs... Also, I was hoping for some REAL mpreg like in book #1 (Sacred Fate) and book #4. There was only mentions of it... sighs... I would have loved to see the main characters breeding...
Despite all these ramblings, I still like her style of writing. Love how she pays attention to the details of the world, Ylandre. And so in love with how she manages to intertwine all the different events from book #1 to #4 into the timeline of this particular story. It was pretty exciting to see where all these familiar characters fall into place in each story. I'm looking forward to the next book!!! :) Please let there be mpreg again! :)
But this book turn out to be a disappointment... It just seems all too familiar... With issues very similar to book #3 (By Chance Met) and book #4 (Heartstring) - betrayal, deception and miscommunication (when couples simply don't discuss their issues). I thought that she could have come up with a better plot/climax... something different from her other books. And, this story of sympathy/unrequited love/ being treated or feeling like a substitute for his brother, sounds too familiar to the plot in Junjou Romantica (Japanese BL anime/manga). Especially the scene where Keosqe bared his emotions to a sympathetic Tristen, who seemed to have fallen in love with his brother admirer. And the fact that Keosqe's unrequited lover is Tristen's brother makes it all to similar.... sighs... Also, I was hoping for some REAL mpreg like in book #1 (Sacred Fate) and book #4. There was only mentions of it... sighs... I would have loved to see the main characters breeding...
Despite all these ramblings, I still like her style of writing. Love how she pays attention to the details of the world, Ylandre. And so in love with how she manages to intertwine all the different events from book #1 to #4 into the timeline of this particular story. It was pretty exciting to see where all these familiar characters fall into place in each story. I'm looking forward to the next book!!! :) Please let there be mpreg again! :)
July 16, 2013
The Chronicles of Ylandre series is an amazing, extraordinary epic series about love, courage, friendship, family, forgiveness, atonement, good and evil, and many more other themes. Eresse’s writing is skilful and engaging, and the world she has created is rich, imaginative and impressive.
Cross Purposes is the 5th book in this wonderful series and there is plenty to love about this book. The amazing writing, the extraordinary fantasy world, intrigue, politics and even a military campaign at the end .
For me however, the highlight was the many wonderful characters. I really loved Keosqe and Tristen’s relationship and I’m glad Keosqe gave them another chance. I also loved the scenes between Dylen & Rio . It was very satisfying seeing them finally happy and secure in their relationship.
Cross Purposes is a book I would encourage everyone to read. Eresse truly is an amazing writer and she has written a wonderful story with a large array of unique characters in a wonderful fantasy world.
I'm now praying we don’t have to wait too long for book six. I'm dying to read Ranael and Vaeren's book(a romance between 2 warriors),Jareth and Yandro's and Aeldan's.
Cross Purposes is the 5th book in this wonderful series and there is plenty to love about this book. The amazing writing, the extraordinary fantasy world, intrigue, politics and even a military campaign at the end .
For me however, the highlight was the many wonderful characters. I really loved Keosqe and Tristen’s relationship and I’m glad Keosqe gave them another chance. I also loved the scenes between Dylen & Rio . It was very satisfying seeing them finally happy and secure in their relationship.
Cross Purposes is a book I would encourage everyone to read. Eresse truly is an amazing writer and she has written a wonderful story with a large array of unique characters in a wonderful fantasy world.
I'm now praying we don’t have to wait too long for book six. I'm dying to read Ranael and Vaeren's book(a romance between 2 warriors),Jareth and Yandro's and Aeldan's.
July 19, 2013
There was a point where I felt the misunderstanding was too similar to Heartstring and I have to admit there was a moment where I was thinking not again...and my heart felt like it was being stomped on. I grew to really love Keosqe and Tristen while reading the book so when the misunderstanding between the two occurred I tried to keep the tears of sorrow in (man, was my nasal passages burning up). But as the author pointed it out in the story when Ren was giving Keosqe advice, similar misunderstandings have happened to the previous MC's featured in the series. I didn't love this book like I loved the first 3, but there were certain things (which I won't post because of spoilers) that I did like about the book. I think a couple of re-reads will change my mind over time.
Eresse has wonderful way of pulling emotions from her readers and she weaves a fantastic story with great world building, character building and relationship development. I'm really looking forward to reading the next installment to the series.
Eresse has wonderful way of pulling emotions from her readers and she weaves a fantastic story with great world building, character building and relationship development. I'm really looking forward to reading the next installment to the series.
November 14, 2014
I loved the banter between the MCs, but I wasn't really crazy about the story or their romance per say. I thought there was a lot of emotional blackmail, . I wish we'd got more explanation of how Tristen felt. He spends a lot of time talking about how much he hates how Keosqe treats him. Keosqe was very unreasonable with no understanding of how young Tristen really was. I hate saying that because I hate using age as a cop out for bad behavior. But it's true. There was just a power imbalance that wasn't resolved enough for me. As for story...it was very obvious and not what I expect from this series. But I do enjoy this series so much, and I don't HATE the book. I just have issues with it. And I'm bummed that I'm almost all caught up with the series. =(
November 26, 2016
This whole series is at the top of my-6-star-favs list. I love the characters, the world, the concept of "turning". Everything is so well written and the characters are all so deep. The only stumbling block for me is the names, it takes me a while to get them anchored in my head since they are not something I'm familiar with and often can't figure out how to pronounce them correctly. But other than that this whole series is amazing and should be read one right after the other. The timelines overlap so we see how things are happening from other points of view.
I can't say enough great things about this series, I can only say...
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
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1st read - Mar 24, 2015
2nd read- Nov 24, 2016
I can't say enough great things about this series, I can only say...
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
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1st read - Mar 24, 2015
2nd read- Nov 24, 2016
August 6, 2013
Eresse is one of the BEST published authors ever, in my opinion. I've read lots over the years and none compare to what Eresse has established in her Ylandre series.
I totally recommend this series. I bought my ebooks from LSBooks. And of course, to understand everything that's going on, you need to read it from book 1. If you haven't, what are you waiting for?! You definitely don't want to miss out on this great romance, angst-ridden adventure!
Eresse has such a way with words and the way she breathes life into all of her characters - it's fantastic!
I can't wait for her next book to come out!!!
I totally recommend this series. I bought my ebooks from LSBooks. And of course, to understand everything that's going on, you need to read it from book 1. If you haven't, what are you waiting for?! You definitely don't want to miss out on this great romance, angst-ridden adventure!
Eresse has such a way with words and the way she breathes life into all of her characters - it's fantastic!
I can't wait for her next book to come out!!!
June 11, 2016
I’m head over heels in love with Ylandre and the world of Aisen, but Cross Purposes is not so convincing as the other books in this series to me because of some characters.
I was offended by the main character Tristen on account of his stubborness and thoughtless actions, by which he betrayed Keosqe and hurt him very much. Another problem to me was the ridiculous behaviors of the side character Mirdan. I really didn't understand why he believed he could come near and win Keosqe if he got rid of Tristen.
But in spite of the problems above, I did like this book. It was very enjoyable nonetheless, and it was difficult to put it down when I read it.
I was offended by the main character Tristen on account of his stubborness and thoughtless actions, by which he betrayed Keosqe and hurt him very much. Another problem to me was the ridiculous behaviors of the side character Mirdan. I really didn't understand why he believed he could come near and win Keosqe if he got rid of Tristen.
But in spite of the problems above, I did like this book. It was very enjoyable nonetheless, and it was difficult to put it down when I read it.
August 2, 2013
I've been waiting for this title for what feels like a year and I was not disappointed. Eresse has such a beautiful flow of words in this series that you're easily swept into it. I actually found myself crying during the conflict in this book and I don't know why it touched me so, but seeing heartbreak so vividly portrayed was enough to make me a blithering mess for a bit while reading. Love this world she's built and I wish I could speed her writing of more titles so I don't have to wait so long between them. Pick up this series! Really! I think you're going to be pleasantly surprised!
August 14, 2016
First I have to say, I adore this series and all the characters, but ... with this one I was a bit disappointed. I could not see how the relationship with Tristan and Keosque would really work out - there was not enough time in the end.
also there was a real imbalance between these two - which got better in the end but Keosque took quite a lot of advantage of that .
nevertheless, I liked it and especially that I got to see all the others again.
also there was a real imbalance between these two - which got better in the end but Keosque took quite a lot of advantage of that .
nevertheless, I liked it and especially that I got to see all the others again.
November 24, 2013
Did not draw me in as much as the others did. Didn't feel the connection much between Keosque and Tristen. There was also a lot of side information about the world and their politics that I was usually torn between wanting to figure out or just ignore, because of all the names and things happening. I could definitely see some set up for more books, which I will read still.
October 4, 2013
The author is amazingly gifted. In the Chronicles of Ylandre, she created a world I would love to live in. How interesting would it be to be hermaphrodite and be able to change sexual roles? The characters come alive and the story keeps you on alert. I can't wait for the next book in the series. Please keep them coming.
October 10, 2015
I am really loving this series of books. Although each one centres on a different couple, all the others come into them somewhere along the line.
I loved this one as at first it didn't seem the main characters would ever get together, and then when the did, it all fell apart because of misunderstandings and insecurity.
I loved this one as at first it didn't seem the main characters would ever get together, and then when the did, it all fell apart because of misunderstandings and insecurity.
July 19, 2013
3.5 Stars
After a long wait, I'm so glad it's finally out! The story is not as moving as the previous books but still a good read nonetheless. I wanted to see more passion and a more solid connection between the couple.
After a long wait, I'm so glad it's finally out! The story is not as moving as the previous books but still a good read nonetheless. I wanted to see more passion and a more solid connection between the couple.
July 21, 2013
I loved the beginning of the book but I was expecting more to happen action-wise with the spy plot line. It was a bit anticlimactic for my taste, however, this is definitely one of my favorite slash series and I'm looking forward to the next installment.
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