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Araneae Nation #4
A Breath of Winter
There’s no easy cure for a love of epidemic proportions.
Araneae Nation, Book 4
Zuri and her mercenary brothers had a simple mission. Transport a captured harbinger to Erania and collect the bounty. But this job turns out to be anything but easy.
Their welcome to the northland is nothing short of frigid. A scuffle with border guards and her prisoner’s attempted escape leave Zuri injured—and she and her brothers stuck in quarantine. Worse, the bounty comes with silken strings attached. Strings held by a scientist with a daring, dangerous plan.
Because Zuri and her prisoner barged in before his fail-safes were in place, Henri had no choice but to lock them all down until he’s sure there’s no risk of spreading plague. He’d planned to study the harbinger, but it’s the mercenary holding the leash who intrigues him the most.
When Henri’s experiment goes awry, they learn they’ve all been pawns in a plan with one bring the Araneae Nation to its knees. Zuri is forced to make a choice that could sign her death warrant—or sacrifice everyone she loves.
This book contains a chair-bound heroine who won’t let anyone—least of all a man—push her around. Expect tea-drinking, net-tossing, and knife-wielding. Should you feel compelled to indulge in a bear ride, please keep your hands on the reins and your feet in the stirrups. Author not responsible for possible maulings.
271 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 10, 2013
94 people are currently reading
368 people want to read
About the author
Hailey Edwards
104 books2,839 followersHailey Edwards writes about questionable applications of otherwise perfectly good magic, the transformative power of love, the family you choose for yourself, and blowing stuff up. Not necessarily all at once. That could get messy.
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https://haileyedwards.net/contact-form/
Hailey isn't on Goodreads.
Please email her via her website:
https://haileyedwards.net/contact-form/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
June 10, 2018
Picking up after the last book, Zuri and her brothers are Dionopidae mercenaries and are escorting their ward, the harbinger to the city of Erania in the north, to be studied and assessed by Henri, the maven's scientist brother. On the way, they encounter some trouble which results in an injury for Zuri, so she becomes a rather captive audience/assistant to Henri, who she finds very attractive. They develop a friendship of sorts, although both are keeping secrets from the other. Trouble comes when they realize that "risers" have followed their harbinger to Erania and are now trying to infiltrate the nest. They soon find out that the harbinger is far more dangerous than they originally thought.
This was good, but not an excellent story in its own right. The world building, as always, is incredibly awesome and quite detailed. I feel like I'm dropped into this clan society and understand how things work with them. Mostly this story served to advance the plot of the series with the harbingers/risers and the yellow plague, but I didn't really care much about Henri or Zuri as a couple. I think this is because the story didn't really give them a lot of attention as a couple. They interacted, they bantered, they had a bit of an attraction but it didn't feel like an all-consuming thing (like with Vaughn or Rhys) and I didn't feel like they had enough time and interaction to really build trust (as evidenced by the secrets they continued to keep) or fall in love. In fact, neither of them really declared love for the other, but their actions were more revealing. I just couldn't see the emotion in either of them that would drive these actions. And maybe that's the limitation of the first person point of view of Zuri. It's impossible to see how Henri feels. This combined with the rather slow pacing in the middle of the story as we wait for the harbinger to DO something, kinda limited my enjoyment. But I do like following the series arc and wondering how they're going to defeat the Necrita.
Another thing I wonder about and wish the author had addressed was the issue of venom. First of all, there is the harbinger's sigil's venom that is now forever in Zuri (and for which she must always take injections or risk death). Well, Marne is on her way somewhere else...how is she going to continue to receive these treatments for the rest of her life? And is this anti-venin in any way finite, that we may see Zuri and Marne in fear of their lives? What if something happens to Henri? Are there others who can make it? This was very much glossed over, to the point where it kinda felt like a deus ex machina... Also, Henri is part Theridiidae, and they have extremely toxic venom. So, that means that his venom would be pretty toxic, maybe not to the extent of full Theridiidae, but partly. So I was somewhat concerned when he started biting Zuri and injecting all kinds of venom - what about the toxicity of that venom? Is that not an issue? And what kind of scientist goes injecting venom into a woman who is already full of harbinger venom without first studying the potential reaction? My overly analytical mind would NOT let that go! It didn't really spoil the book for me or anything, but I really wanted to know about this...
This was good, but not an excellent story in its own right. The world building, as always, is incredibly awesome and quite detailed. I feel like I'm dropped into this clan society and understand how things work with them. Mostly this story served to advance the plot of the series with the harbingers/risers and the yellow plague, but I didn't really care much about Henri or Zuri as a couple. I think this is because the story didn't really give them a lot of attention as a couple. They interacted, they bantered, they had a bit of an attraction but it didn't feel like an all-consuming thing (like with Vaughn or Rhys) and I didn't feel like they had enough time and interaction to really build trust (as evidenced by the secrets they continued to keep) or fall in love. In fact, neither of them really declared love for the other, but their actions were more revealing. I just couldn't see the emotion in either of them that would drive these actions. And maybe that's the limitation of the first person point of view of Zuri. It's impossible to see how Henri feels. This combined with the rather slow pacing in the middle of the story as we wait for the harbinger to DO something, kinda limited my enjoyment. But I do like following the series arc and wondering how they're going to defeat the Necrita.
Another thing I wonder about and wish the author had addressed was the issue of venom. First of all, there is the harbinger's sigil's venom that is now forever in Zuri (and for which she must always take injections or risk death). Well, Marne is on her way somewhere else...how is she going to continue to receive these treatments for the rest of her life? And is this anti-venin in any way finite, that we may see Zuri and Marne in fear of their lives? What if something happens to Henri? Are there others who can make it? This was very much glossed over, to the point where it kinda felt like a deus ex machina... Also, Henri is part Theridiidae, and they have extremely toxic venom. So, that means that his venom would be pretty toxic, maybe not to the extent of full Theridiidae, but partly. So I was somewhat concerned when he started biting Zuri and injecting all kinds of venom - what about the toxicity of that venom? Is that not an issue? And what kind of scientist goes injecting venom into a woman who is already full of harbinger venom without first studying the potential reaction? My overly analytical mind would NOT let that go! It didn't really spoil the book for me or anything, but I really wanted to know about this...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 8, 2013
A Breath of Winter by Hailey Edwards is the fourth book in the Araneae Nation series. This book will be released December 10, 2013 and is a Samhain Publishing ,LTD publication. I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher and Bewitching Book Blog Tours/Roxanne Rhoads in exchange for an honest review.
"There's no easy cure for a love of epidemic proportions"
Zuri and her brothers have been commissioned to transport a captured harbinger to Erania. Sounds simple enough, right? Wrong. The mission goes awry from the start. The prisoner nearly escapes, the border guards cause a scuffle, and to put the cherry on the cake, Zuri and her brothers are quarantined due to the plague.
Enter Henri, a healer and scientist. His plan was to study the harbinger. He wants to find a cure for the plague, but his experiment doesn't work out the way he planned.
While Zuri recuperates from an ankle injury, she and Henri forge a bond. Although Zuri isn't as trusting of Henri's men, she does trust Henri. She will have to trust someone when a conspiracy comes to light that could topple the Araneae Nation.
I must confess that I have not read the first three books in this series. I seem to make a habit of picking a book that is the latest in the series and hoping I will be able to follow along. That's a risk in any series, but especially in a fantasy series.
However, I picked up the thread right away was carried off into another time and place. While I would highly recommend reading the first three books in the series first, which I plan to do, if you see this one listed as a new release, by all means don't hesitate to pick this one up.
This book is, in my opinion, high fantasy. It could be labeled as paranormal romance, even Urban Fantasy, but for me I think that's a stretch.
I loved Zuri's spunk and bravery and loyalty. She has the ability to think and act with grace under pressure.
Henri is kind of an odd duck. Initially, his intentions were well meaning, but he actually put Zuri and her family at great risk. However, he more than makes up for his mistake and it looks as though fate brought Zuri to him for a reason.
There are many creatures and unusal persons in this book which challenges the reader to use their imaginations. The author does a great job of opening up my mind visually.
I highly recommend this book to fantasy lovers and romance readers.
Overall this one is an A.
"There's no easy cure for a love of epidemic proportions"
Zuri and her brothers have been commissioned to transport a captured harbinger to Erania. Sounds simple enough, right? Wrong. The mission goes awry from the start. The prisoner nearly escapes, the border guards cause a scuffle, and to put the cherry on the cake, Zuri and her brothers are quarantined due to the plague.
Enter Henri, a healer and scientist. His plan was to study the harbinger. He wants to find a cure for the plague, but his experiment doesn't work out the way he planned.
While Zuri recuperates from an ankle injury, she and Henri forge a bond. Although Zuri isn't as trusting of Henri's men, she does trust Henri. She will have to trust someone when a conspiracy comes to light that could topple the Araneae Nation.
I must confess that I have not read the first three books in this series. I seem to make a habit of picking a book that is the latest in the series and hoping I will be able to follow along. That's a risk in any series, but especially in a fantasy series.
However, I picked up the thread right away was carried off into another time and place. While I would highly recommend reading the first three books in the series first, which I plan to do, if you see this one listed as a new release, by all means don't hesitate to pick this one up.
This book is, in my opinion, high fantasy. It could be labeled as paranormal romance, even Urban Fantasy, but for me I think that's a stretch.
I loved Zuri's spunk and bravery and loyalty. She has the ability to think and act with grace under pressure.
Henri is kind of an odd duck. Initially, his intentions were well meaning, but he actually put Zuri and her family at great risk. However, he more than makes up for his mistake and it looks as though fate brought Zuri to him for a reason.
There are many creatures and unusal persons in this book which challenges the reader to use their imaginations. The author does a great job of opening up my mind visually.
I highly recommend this book to fantasy lovers and romance readers.
Overall this one is an A.
September 22, 2017
After a slight slump in my enjoyment of the series, and a consequent break in reading, I came back to the spider clan nation of the Araneae refreshed and ready. And here, Edwards does not fail to deliver solid characters who move the plot forward. Introduced in the prior book, mercenary Zuri and her brothers bring the captive harbinger as bounty north to Erania, where maven Lourdes and her clan live in their underground city safe from the plague above them. Zuri's reception is anything but welcoming, and her encounter with Lourdes' brother Henri brings a new direction to her story. As a scientist, Henri wants to study the plague and the harbinger, but he must also protect his maven and his people. Is there a cure? And, is there more than one harbinger?
December 10, 2013
While this was on the surface a very slow romance of Zuri and Henri, it was also another excursion into the work of The Araneae Nation and the overarching story that Hailey Edwards has crafted in this series.
The opening starts much like the others with a bit of action resulting in an injury to Zuri but then things start to slow down a bit .... well they slow down a LOT for a majority of the novel. We are watching this whole story unfold through the eyes of Zuri and we get her feelings and thoughts but nobody else (there is a reason for that we will see). So while the romance slowly builds a bit at a time the more typical fantasy plot of the approaching enemy hangs in the background always letting you know that things are not going to remain calm for much longer.
There is a major break at about the 65% mark in this story, just when you start to think "this may be getting a bit boring" things happen to remove any such thoughts from your mind . One of the major points in this story seems to be to bring the reader up to speed on the enemy and the purpose for many of the things you have seen in the previous books. The action picks up significantly and the ending while somewhat satisfying still leaves you with several questions that I have to assume will be revealed in subsequent novels.
Bottom Line: A very good installment into the series but left me feeling like it was more of a bridging novel for the next one since a lot of the novel felt like an information dump. The ending was good but I felt like I needed another chapter or two for a better look into Zuri's future. My only real disappointment is that the most colorful character in this whole series is Isolde and we get to see none of her in this novel. 4 Stars and while a very enjoyable reading experience, it left me wanting a bit more than this novel delivered, the next novel needs to have a bit more meat to it and move the overarching story further down the line. Make no mistake, this is not a book you can skip and by the end you will not want to, trust me :)
The opening starts much like the others with a bit of action resulting in an injury to Zuri but then things start to slow down a bit .... well they slow down a LOT for a majority of the novel. We are watching this whole story unfold through the eyes of Zuri and we get her feelings and thoughts but nobody else (there is a reason for that we will see). So while the romance slowly builds a bit at a time the more typical fantasy plot of the approaching enemy hangs in the background always letting you know that things are not going to remain calm for much longer.
There is a major break at about the 65% mark in this story, just when you start to think "this may be getting a bit boring" things happen to remove any such thoughts from your mind . One of the major points in this story seems to be to bring the reader up to speed on the enemy and the purpose for many of the things you have seen in the previous books. The action picks up significantly and the ending while somewhat satisfying still leaves you with several questions that I have to assume will be revealed in subsequent novels.
Bottom Line: A very good installment into the series but left me feeling like it was more of a bridging novel for the next one since a lot of the novel felt like an information dump. The ending was good but I felt like I needed another chapter or two for a better look into Zuri's future. My only real disappointment is that the most colorful character in this whole series is Isolde and we get to see none of her in this novel. 4 Stars and while a very enjoyable reading experience, it left me wanting a bit more than this novel delivered, the next novel needs to have a bit more meat to it and move the overarching story further down the line. Make no mistake, this is not a book you can skip and by the end you will not want to, trust me :)
June 12, 2015
Well, well, Henri, where have you been hiding??
I think Henri might rate high on my book boyfriends. There's just something about him. . .
As always with this writer, I devoured her book, loving the interesting plot, vivid and hilarious characters and the creative world they inhabit. I adored the play between Zuri and her brothers, and can only hope they get books of their own! The harbinger angle gets developed in a twist I didn't see coming, and we get to visit Erania again (which is a yay for me as I loved it in Lourdes' book!)
I'm so sad I have one book left - though I have hope more are on the horizon!
I think Henri might rate high on my book boyfriends. There's just something about him. . .
As always with this writer, I devoured her book, loving the interesting plot, vivid and hilarious characters and the creative world they inhabit. I adored the play between Zuri and her brothers, and can only hope they get books of their own! The harbinger angle gets developed in a twist I didn't see coming, and we get to visit Erania again (which is a yay for me as I loved it in Lourdes' book!)
I'm so sad I have one book left - though I have hope more are on the horizon!
June 2, 2024
The fourth installment of The Araneae Nation series by Hailey Edwards, a series I recently read and absolutely loved, is A Breath of Winter. This series started back in 2012 and was completed in 2014 (with some novellas not included in this review released up to 2017), so it's not a new one. I'd read 5 other series by Hailey Edwards (A Beginner's Guide to Necromancy, Black Hat Bureau, Black Dog, Gemini and her new series The Body Shop) before stumbling across this, so I thought I knew what to expect - good writing, good romance, decent low fantasy worldbuilding. But this blew me away.
The Araneae are a collection of clans, with a similar vibe to indigenous American and Canadian tribes, except that they are clearly related to spiders. Different clans have different anatomical, physiological and cultural adaptations - fangs and venom, spinnerets to create web, resistance to venom, differing levels of aggression, ritual cannibalism, fighting ability, hunting and scent tracking ability, craftsmanship, spiritual powers, inability to digest meat, the list goes on. It makes for a really diverse and interesting high fantasy world of different tribes. And of course, there's something not right in this fantasy world - spiders, meet plague. A plague that does more than they realise... and over the course of the series, we see this plot beautifully evolve around the individual stories of our main players.
This book features mercenary Zuri and our old friend Lourdes' scientist-healer brother Henri. And we're starting to really get a glimpse of what our heroes are up against in the series overarching plot line now - and it's looking pretty grim for them.
Of the five books in the series, this was my least favourite. I just didn’t connect with Zuri in the same way I had the other FMCs, and I didn’t find Henri a really compelling MMC. I didn’t like all the secrets he kept, and I just struggled to see why he was so attracted to Zuri, to be honest - mainly because she couldn’t see it, and we couldn’t see an alternative motivation for him. That relationship didn’t feel as well developed as the first two in the series, and with the plot device of locking in Zuri and her brothers due to plague risk, I just felt I was built up for more relationship development than I got - it was definitely more instalove this installment than good slow burn.
The overarching plot development felt slow and frustrating during the early part of the novel, then went from woah to go in 0-10 seconds in the last third. I actually couldn’t believe what was happening, and was totally gripped. I couldn’t see a way out of it that would work but oh my god it did. And it had me on the edge of my seat ready for the concluding installment.
This definitely was more okay and less great than the rest of the series, but some really important things happened and it definitely set us up well for the ending.
The Araneae are a collection of clans, with a similar vibe to indigenous American and Canadian tribes, except that they are clearly related to spiders. Different clans have different anatomical, physiological and cultural adaptations - fangs and venom, spinnerets to create web, resistance to venom, differing levels of aggression, ritual cannibalism, fighting ability, hunting and scent tracking ability, craftsmanship, spiritual powers, inability to digest meat, the list goes on. It makes for a really diverse and interesting high fantasy world of different tribes. And of course, there's something not right in this fantasy world - spiders, meet plague. A plague that does more than they realise... and over the course of the series, we see this plot beautifully evolve around the individual stories of our main players.
This book features mercenary Zuri and our old friend Lourdes' scientist-healer brother Henri. And we're starting to really get a glimpse of what our heroes are up against in the series overarching plot line now - and it's looking pretty grim for them.
Of the five books in the series, this was my least favourite. I just didn’t connect with Zuri in the same way I had the other FMCs, and I didn’t find Henri a really compelling MMC. I didn’t like all the secrets he kept, and I just struggled to see why he was so attracted to Zuri, to be honest - mainly because she couldn’t see it, and we couldn’t see an alternative motivation for him. That relationship didn’t feel as well developed as the first two in the series, and with the plot device of locking in Zuri and her brothers due to plague risk, I just felt I was built up for more relationship development than I got - it was definitely more instalove this installment than good slow burn.
The overarching plot development felt slow and frustrating during the early part of the novel, then went from woah to go in 0-10 seconds in the last third. I actually couldn’t believe what was happening, and was totally gripped. I couldn’t see a way out of it that would work but oh my god it did. And it had me on the edge of my seat ready for the concluding installment.
This definitely was more okay and less great than the rest of the series, but some really important things happened and it definitely set us up well for the ending.
January 5, 2025
2.75 stars, really.
It's hard to give more than that because this was a very, very slow book. I put it down a lot.
I get there's not much to work with when the main character is bedridden and underground. But you'd think that maybe the romance would take point then.... it didn't. This was a really bland romance.
There were several clues littered throughout this book for the subtle mystery taking place. A lot of thought went into this story, but sadly, it lacked excitement.
Where did Marne come from? This kind of broke the arching plot for me. So far, everything has happened in stages you get to follow. But Marne came out of nowhere with a history that gave Henri knowledge that we've not witnessed yet, allowing him to answer questions we didn't even have yet.
I wanted more for Henri. Zuri thought she had interest for him, but I didn't see her actually showing him that interest. I also didn't really see a connection between them, either.
If I weren't reading this series as a single book, I likely wouldn't pick up the next one for some time, if at all. Although it's very interesting, I need more stimulation.
It's hard to give more than that because this was a very, very slow book. I put it down a lot.
I get there's not much to work with when the main character is bedridden and underground. But you'd think that maybe the romance would take point then.... it didn't. This was a really bland romance.
There were several clues littered throughout this book for the subtle mystery taking place. A lot of thought went into this story, but sadly, it lacked excitement.
Where did Marne come from? This kind of broke the arching plot for me. So far, everything has happened in stages you get to follow. But Marne came out of nowhere with a history that gave Henri knowledge that we've not witnessed yet, allowing him to answer questions we didn't even have yet.
I wanted more for Henri. Zuri thought she had interest for him, but I didn't see her actually showing him that interest. I also didn't really see a connection between them, either.
If I weren't reading this series as a single book, I likely wouldn't pick up the next one for some time, if at all. Although it's very interesting, I need more stimulation.
January 20, 2014
Review originally posted on The Book Pushers here: http://thebookpushers.com/2013/12/30/...
Publisher: Samhain Publishing
Publish Date: Out now
How I got this book: ARC from the author
There’s no easy cure for a love of epidemic proportions.
Zuri and her mercenary brothers had a simple mission. Transport a captured harbinger to Erania and collect the bounty. But this job turns out to be anything but easy.
Their welcome to the northland is nothing short of frigid. A scuffle with border guards and her prisoner’s attempted escape leave Zuri injured—and she and her brothers stuck in quarantine. Worse, the bounty comes with silken strings attached. Strings held by a scientist with a daring, dangerous plan.
Because Zuri and her prisoner barged in before his fail-safes were in place, Henri had no choice but to lock them all down until he’s sure there’s no risk of spreading plague. He’d planned to study the harbinger, but it’s the mercenary holding the leash who intrigues him the most.
When Henri’s experiment goes awry, they learn they’ve all been pawns in a plan with one goal: bring the Araneae Nation to its knees. Zuri is forced to make a choice that could sign her death warrant—or sacrifice everyone she loves.
Product Warning: This book contains a chair-bound heroine who won’t let anyone—least of all a man—push her around. Expect tea-drinking, net-tossing, and knife-wielding. Should you feel compelled to indulge in a bear ride, please keep your hands on the reins and your feet in the stirrups. Author not responsible for possible maulings.
This blurb came from the author’s website.
If you have been following this blog over the past few years you might have noticed the name Hailey Edwards popping up on a fairly regular basis. I have been hooked on this series since I read the first one, A Hint of Frost. The characters, the world-building, and mysterious deadly illness sweeping over the land were all intriguing. Since this is a tightly connected series with each book building on the events of the previous ones, there will be spoilers for earlier installments. I strongly recommend that you start at the beginning of this series instead of jumping in part way. I thought events had pretty much come to a head in the last book, A Time of Dying, with the discovery that this disease was created, spread on purpose, and meant far more than just death to most of its victims. Boy was I wrong. Edwards has continued to raise the stakes even as she circled back around to provide a glimpse of life at the site of her opening story and how it has changed over the passage of time.
I was introduced to Zuri and her companions in the last book but didn’t see them as much more than skilled guards. It was fascinating seeing into what shaped them and their dynamics not just as a mercenary band but as a family unit. Some of the same traits that kept them together led to issues when they were confronted with an intelligent foe who would stop at nothing to win. I loved Zuri’s fierce loyalty to those she cared about even when they made her feel like an outsider. She was willing to give her all for her family and as a result made some interesting decisions.
Henri, was one of the minor supporting characters in A Hint of Frost, but like other skilled authors, Hailey included his scene there for a reason. He was very smart and somewhat overconfident. While he seemed to enjoy talking about his experiments, he tended to withhold crucial pieces of information, which caused some issues to those around him as the story developed. Even though I supported Zuri’s anger and hurt by his actions, I could understand his reasoning based on the threat they faced and how he was treated during his formative years. I loved his patience and care for Zuri and her brothers as he tried to make amends for events that occurred because of his secretiveness. I did get a bit frustrated when Henri remained oblivious of a certain reoccurring event but as the danger to his clan sharply increased, I understood why.
I thought the interaction between Zuri, Henri, and her brothers was a lot of fun. Zuri and Henri had a push-pull relationship with one acting on their mutual physical attraction while the other pulled back and then they switched places. The push-pull meant they moved from just physical attraction to emotional closeness before fully acting on their attraction. In the meantime, Henri developed a bond with her brothers which gave him some insights into their family dynamic but also made it harder to gain Zuri’s trust. I also thought the conversations and teasing between Zuri and her brothers demonstrated a very tight bond. As Zuri shared their history and the responsibility she carried I was drawn into their dynamic even more. The closeness between the main characters made certain events even more gut-wrenching as they unfolded.
In addition to the slow growing romance between Zuri and Henri, I enjoyed the overall story progression. Hailey introduced a couple of very fascinating new characters I hope get their own story. The twist they brought in addition to what happened with Zuri and Henri is really moving this series in a new direction I think. I also found the harbinger’s newly demonstrated abilities very unsettling and perhaps indicative of the growing complex problem facing the Araneae Nation. I am not quite sure how this is going to play out which is another thing I enjoy with this series as a whole.
A Breath of Winter was another strong installment in Hailey’s Araneae Nation. I am glad that she is able to keep me guessing and hooked on her characters and world. While the installments build on each other, I have a hard time predicting where Hailey is going next which helps keep my anticipation high for each succeeding story. I can’t wait to see what happens next.
I give A Breath of Winter a B+
Publisher: Samhain Publishing
Publish Date: Out now
How I got this book: ARC from the author
There’s no easy cure for a love of epidemic proportions.
Zuri and her mercenary brothers had a simple mission. Transport a captured harbinger to Erania and collect the bounty. But this job turns out to be anything but easy.
Their welcome to the northland is nothing short of frigid. A scuffle with border guards and her prisoner’s attempted escape leave Zuri injured—and she and her brothers stuck in quarantine. Worse, the bounty comes with silken strings attached. Strings held by a scientist with a daring, dangerous plan.
Because Zuri and her prisoner barged in before his fail-safes were in place, Henri had no choice but to lock them all down until he’s sure there’s no risk of spreading plague. He’d planned to study the harbinger, but it’s the mercenary holding the leash who intrigues him the most.
When Henri’s experiment goes awry, they learn they’ve all been pawns in a plan with one goal: bring the Araneae Nation to its knees. Zuri is forced to make a choice that could sign her death warrant—or sacrifice everyone she loves.
Product Warning: This book contains a chair-bound heroine who won’t let anyone—least of all a man—push her around. Expect tea-drinking, net-tossing, and knife-wielding. Should you feel compelled to indulge in a bear ride, please keep your hands on the reins and your feet in the stirrups. Author not responsible for possible maulings.
This blurb came from the author’s website.
If you have been following this blog over the past few years you might have noticed the name Hailey Edwards popping up on a fairly regular basis. I have been hooked on this series since I read the first one, A Hint of Frost. The characters, the world-building, and mysterious deadly illness sweeping over the land were all intriguing. Since this is a tightly connected series with each book building on the events of the previous ones, there will be spoilers for earlier installments. I strongly recommend that you start at the beginning of this series instead of jumping in part way. I thought events had pretty much come to a head in the last book, A Time of Dying, with the discovery that this disease was created, spread on purpose, and meant far more than just death to most of its victims. Boy was I wrong. Edwards has continued to raise the stakes even as she circled back around to provide a glimpse of life at the site of her opening story and how it has changed over the passage of time.
I was introduced to Zuri and her companions in the last book but didn’t see them as much more than skilled guards. It was fascinating seeing into what shaped them and their dynamics not just as a mercenary band but as a family unit. Some of the same traits that kept them together led to issues when they were confronted with an intelligent foe who would stop at nothing to win. I loved Zuri’s fierce loyalty to those she cared about even when they made her feel like an outsider. She was willing to give her all for her family and as a result made some interesting decisions.
Henri, was one of the minor supporting characters in A Hint of Frost, but like other skilled authors, Hailey included his scene there for a reason. He was very smart and somewhat overconfident. While he seemed to enjoy talking about his experiments, he tended to withhold crucial pieces of information, which caused some issues to those around him as the story developed. Even though I supported Zuri’s anger and hurt by his actions, I could understand his reasoning based on the threat they faced and how he was treated during his formative years. I loved his patience and care for Zuri and her brothers as he tried to make amends for events that occurred because of his secretiveness. I did get a bit frustrated when Henri remained oblivious of a certain reoccurring event but as the danger to his clan sharply increased, I understood why.
I thought the interaction between Zuri, Henri, and her brothers was a lot of fun. Zuri and Henri had a push-pull relationship with one acting on their mutual physical attraction while the other pulled back and then they switched places. The push-pull meant they moved from just physical attraction to emotional closeness before fully acting on their attraction. In the meantime, Henri developed a bond with her brothers which gave him some insights into their family dynamic but also made it harder to gain Zuri’s trust. I also thought the conversations and teasing between Zuri and her brothers demonstrated a very tight bond. As Zuri shared their history and the responsibility she carried I was drawn into their dynamic even more. The closeness between the main characters made certain events even more gut-wrenching as they unfolded.
In addition to the slow growing romance between Zuri and Henri, I enjoyed the overall story progression. Hailey introduced a couple of very fascinating new characters I hope get their own story. The twist they brought in addition to what happened with Zuri and Henri is really moving this series in a new direction I think. I also found the harbinger’s newly demonstrated abilities very unsettling and perhaps indicative of the growing complex problem facing the Araneae Nation. I am not quite sure how this is going to play out which is another thing I enjoy with this series as a whole.
A Breath of Winter was another strong installment in Hailey’s Araneae Nation. I am glad that she is able to keep me guessing and hooked on her characters and world. While the installments build on each other, I have a hard time predicting where Hailey is going next which helps keep my anticipation high for each succeeding story. I can’t wait to see what happens next.
I give A Breath of Winter a B+
May 28, 2017
Another great continuation of the Araneae Nation series. Zuri didn't start out as a sympathetic character for me, but I grew to like her and her relationship with her siblings. Henri was a wash for me and I didn't feel any emotional chemistry between him and Zuri. The plot was excellent, and I liked the parts of the overall storyline that was revealed-- quite the surprise! Series should be read in order, and the over-riding themes set against the background of eminent war inches forward with each book.
June 11, 2019
For science !
I really enjoy this series and all the different characters it follows with each book. Not only does it expand on characters we meet in previous books but it furthers the story line of different clans trying to survive an unknown enemy capable of spreading a plague and stealing their dead. I’m curious to find out more about the harbingers and what roles they really play.
I really enjoy this series and all the different characters it follows with each book. Not only does it expand on characters we meet in previous books but it furthers the story line of different clans trying to survive an unknown enemy capable of spreading a plague and stealing their dead. I’m curious to find out more about the harbingers and what roles they really play.
May 7, 2025
Kinda disappointed, I was excited for Henri’s part and I feel like a lot of big shit with like the overall plot was going down but I just didn’t like this one too too much, at least compared to the others. I think its generally hard for an author to have a series and make all the characters interesting and memorable, and this is just one of the books where it kinda faltered for me in the series
January 17, 2018
So many layers
Wow! This book was great! It has a story, within a story, within a story! I loved the origin story. I love Henri and Zuri. She is so strong, and he is finally getting the care and attention he deserves.
Wow! This book was great! It has a story, within a story, within a story! I loved the origin story. I love Henri and Zuri. She is so strong, and he is finally getting the care and attention he deserves.
September 6, 2018
I liked this one. I’d have liked to see Henri and Zuri’s relationship develop more. It seemed a slow burn until the end then it jumped. Limited characters and limited setting didn’t take away from this though.
April 6, 2025
This series is so good. A must for all fantasy fans. We learn so much about the risen and harbingers in this book and also see Henry finally find something more than his work to be interested in. Good to catch up and hear how the other characters and clans are doing too.
June 11, 2017
Another amazing story
Oh I love this story! The characters are great! Sarcastic and strong! A definite must read! The series is great!!! One of a kind series
Oh I love this story! The characters are great! Sarcastic and strong! A definite must read! The series is great!!! One of a kind series
October 21, 2017
Slower than the others imo. Still good. Enjoying the world and world building so far. Looking forward to seeing how this series develops.
August 28, 2019
Araneae Nation #4
Ziri and Henri are the main characters in this book which adds much to the overall story arc. Enjoy!
Read:
August 26-27, 2019 – Kindle Edition
Ziri and Henri are the main characters in this book which adds much to the overall story arc. Enjoy!
Read:
August 26-27, 2019 – Kindle Edition
January 25, 2022
I did like the love story but like with the other books it drags on a bit and then the ending is what the entire book should be. This one again did not really do it for me..
November 20, 2023
Hmm, the series is starting to dwindle.
Let's see what happens in the next book.
Let's see what happens in the next book.
July 18, 2022
I adore this series. I originally picked up the first book, A Hint of Frost back in 2013 when it was free on Amazon. At the time the books were being published by Samhain which had put out a number of winners and had started to become my go to for must buy books. It had a cool cover, the blurb sounded interesting and it was free - it was an all round winner.
And then I read it. And I was very impressed. It was brilliant. The world building in incredible, the romance is adorable and the action is intense. There's an over-arcing mystery throughout the entire series which is riveting and comes to a fantastic conclusion. Each book focuses on a different couple but builds upon the mystery with characters and places slotting altogether.
My favourite book of the series would have to be A Feast of Souls - because I LOVE Vaughn! - but all the books are amazing. Hailey Edwards is a very talented writer who knows how to deliver great fantasy.
A Breath of Winter
The third book saw Deinopidae mercenaries, Zuri and her five brothers (Ghedi, Malik, Tau, Fynn and Kaleb) capture the harbringer Lailah, making a deal with the Mimetidae and Segestriidae clans (specifically Vaugh, Isolde, Mana, Kaidi and Murdoch) to transport Lailah to Araneidae for research. Lourdes and Rhys (who have been funding the search for a cure for the plague) were hoping that Henri (the resident scientist and Lourdes' brother) would be able to discover more with a live specimen. So the fourth book sees Lailah, Zuri and her brothers travelling to Araneidae to fulfil their contract.
I liked Zuri. She was spunky. Her relationship with her brothers was sweet and they clearly adored each other. Although I understood where she was coming from with their vow of silence. I've liked Henri on and off through the series - his thing with Mana mostly left me irritated with him - but he was alright in this - even if I didn't love him. The chemistry between them was good though and the banter was funny.
I wouldn't say there was a lot of mystery or intrigue in this one - the plot was limited by the fact they're in quarantine (which COVID - I'm sick to death of quarantines) and stuck separate from the nest and other people, but there were a few reveals which brought up more questions to be explored. And there was a lot of action towards the end when Zuri was a total badass with her plan to save her brothers and Henri.
I did miss Isolde and Vaugh and Mana (and Lleu and Murdoch - *shrugs* the Mimetidae rock) but overall it was an enjoyable read that furthered the overarcing plot. Zuri was feisty and the relationship between her and her brothers was entertaining. The romance was good without over the top cheese or ridiculousness and it was funny. 3.5 stars, rounded up to 4.
And then I read it. And I was very impressed. It was brilliant. The world building in incredible, the romance is adorable and the action is intense. There's an over-arcing mystery throughout the entire series which is riveting and comes to a fantastic conclusion. Each book focuses on a different couple but builds upon the mystery with characters and places slotting altogether.
My favourite book of the series would have to be A Feast of Souls - because I LOVE Vaughn! - but all the books are amazing. Hailey Edwards is a very talented writer who knows how to deliver great fantasy.
A Breath of Winter
The third book saw Deinopidae mercenaries, Zuri and her five brothers (Ghedi, Malik, Tau, Fynn and Kaleb) capture the harbringer Lailah, making a deal with the Mimetidae and Segestriidae clans (specifically Vaugh, Isolde, Mana, Kaidi and Murdoch) to transport Lailah to Araneidae for research. Lourdes and Rhys (who have been funding the search for a cure for the plague) were hoping that Henri (the resident scientist and Lourdes' brother) would be able to discover more with a live specimen. So the fourth book sees Lailah, Zuri and her brothers travelling to Araneidae to fulfil their contract.
I liked Zuri. She was spunky. Her relationship with her brothers was sweet and they clearly adored each other. Although I understood where she was coming from with their vow of silence. I've liked Henri on and off through the series - his thing with Mana mostly left me irritated with him - but he was alright in this - even if I didn't love him. The chemistry between them was good though and the banter was funny.
I wouldn't say there was a lot of mystery or intrigue in this one - the plot was limited by the fact they're in quarantine (which COVID - I'm sick to death of quarantines) and stuck separate from the nest and other people, but there were a few reveals which brought up more questions to be explored. And there was a lot of action towards the end when Zuri was a total badass with her plan to save her brothers and Henri.
I did miss Isolde and Vaugh and Mana (and Lleu and Murdoch - *shrugs* the Mimetidae rock) but overall it was an enjoyable read that furthered the overarcing plot. Zuri was feisty and the relationship between her and her brothers was entertaining. The romance was good without over the top cheese or ridiculousness and it was funny. 3.5 stars, rounded up to 4.
January 7, 2014
I always enjoy coming back to this series. The world building and the cultures represented are so unique and fascinating! This wasn’t the strongest romance the Araneae Nation books have featured, but overall, I did like the story.
Remember that harbinger who was locked in the caves by her son, the villain in A Time of Dying? You know, the one who ended up eating him? Well, our heroine Zuri and her brothers are transporting the beastie to Erania as part of a mercenary job. It’s a difficult task; one made even harder when Zuri is injured on the journey.
Waiting for her is Henri. We met him back in book one. He is brother to the Araneidae Maven, Lourdes. He is a healer and an herbologist, and he is hoping to study the harbinger in order to understand the plague destroying so many. He even hopes to find a cure. But he fears for the safety of his people –and keeps Zuri and her brothers in the underground rooms around his lab. After all, they could be exposed to the pathogen. Right away, there is an attraction between Henri and Zuri, but at first that must take a backseat to a doctor patient relationship. Henri works to heal her injuries –and to study the harbinger– as the pull between them gets stronger.
Both Henri and Zuri have secrets they keep from one another, but it’s more than that. I really didn’t see them getting to know each other. Yeah, they dig each other, and Zuri learns he works tirelessly, while he sees she pushes herself too hard to take care of the people she cares about, but it’s just not enough. By the end of the book, even I didn’t really felt like I knew much more of Henri beyond his commitment to his family and his work. Zuri, I knew better thanks to her first person POV, but my investment in their relationship just never ran deep.
The part of the storyline following the harbinger –and the surprising developments surrounding her– well, that was pretty cool. The mystery of who was sabotaging the tunnels and what Henri was hiding… all good stuff. I liked the book. I was just kind of meh on the romance this time around. (Plus –there was a thread about Zuri’s brothers and their sign language I was sure was going to go somewhere and it never did. It kind of bugged me.) I will definitely continue with the series though. I am curious to know more about Marne and Eden.
Rating: B/B-
*ARC provided by author for review
Remember that harbinger who was locked in the caves by her son, the villain in A Time of Dying? You know, the one who ended up eating him? Well, our heroine Zuri and her brothers are transporting the beastie to Erania as part of a mercenary job. It’s a difficult task; one made even harder when Zuri is injured on the journey.
Waiting for her is Henri. We met him back in book one. He is brother to the Araneidae Maven, Lourdes. He is a healer and an herbologist, and he is hoping to study the harbinger in order to understand the plague destroying so many. He even hopes to find a cure. But he fears for the safety of his people –and keeps Zuri and her brothers in the underground rooms around his lab. After all, they could be exposed to the pathogen. Right away, there is an attraction between Henri and Zuri, but at first that must take a backseat to a doctor patient relationship. Henri works to heal her injuries –and to study the harbinger– as the pull between them gets stronger.
Both Henri and Zuri have secrets they keep from one another, but it’s more than that. I really didn’t see them getting to know each other. Yeah, they dig each other, and Zuri learns he works tirelessly, while he sees she pushes herself too hard to take care of the people she cares about, but it’s just not enough. By the end of the book, even I didn’t really felt like I knew much more of Henri beyond his commitment to his family and his work. Zuri, I knew better thanks to her first person POV, but my investment in their relationship just never ran deep.
The part of the storyline following the harbinger –and the surprising developments surrounding her– well, that was pretty cool. The mystery of who was sabotaging the tunnels and what Henri was hiding… all good stuff. I liked the book. I was just kind of meh on the romance this time around. (Plus –there was a thread about Zuri’s brothers and their sign language I was sure was going to go somewhere and it never did. It kind of bugged me.) I will definitely continue with the series though. I am curious to know more about Marne and Eden.
Rating: B/B-
*ARC provided by author for review
January 6, 2015
An interesting installment that delves again into the Araneae Nation world, so beautifully created and developed by Hailey Edwards. In this story, we are treated to the story of Zuri and Henri, all from Zuri’s perspective.
Giving us only Zuri’s view of the events as they unfold, and tapping so deeply into her emotions keeps this read feeling very slow, almost crawling until the midpoint. A bit disconcerting for readers that want a faster pace, but this only serves to build tension for the reader, correlating to the tension of the warring worlds and the rush to an end.
When the action does pick up, there is information that serves as a refresher for readers, providing insight into possible reasons for events long past, and reasserting the background on the enemy. There are still to be answered questions, but the information needed to fix the events and postulate on yet to come trials are very present.
The relationship is slow to develop, but we do have insight into Zuri’s feelings and see some development and growth in Henri, so overall the romance becomes an underpinning to the larger plotting arc focused on the ongoing threats. I would have liked a bit more perspective than was provided by a story from one character, but I can’t help but feel it was an effective ‘freshening’ of the series to date, and certainly keeps my interest piqued for the next book.
Even with the background layering and information, this is not a series to pick up in the middle, start from the beginning and plan a weekend retreat – you will not regret it.
I purchased a copy of the title for my own library. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Giving us only Zuri’s view of the events as they unfold, and tapping so deeply into her emotions keeps this read feeling very slow, almost crawling until the midpoint. A bit disconcerting for readers that want a faster pace, but this only serves to build tension for the reader, correlating to the tension of the warring worlds and the rush to an end.
When the action does pick up, there is information that serves as a refresher for readers, providing insight into possible reasons for events long past, and reasserting the background on the enemy. There are still to be answered questions, but the information needed to fix the events and postulate on yet to come trials are very present.
The relationship is slow to develop, but we do have insight into Zuri’s feelings and see some development and growth in Henri, so overall the romance becomes an underpinning to the larger plotting arc focused on the ongoing threats. I would have liked a bit more perspective than was provided by a story from one character, but I can’t help but feel it was an effective ‘freshening’ of the series to date, and certainly keeps my interest piqued for the next book.
Even with the background layering and information, this is not a series to pick up in the middle, start from the beginning and plan a weekend retreat – you will not regret it.
I purchased a copy of the title for my own library. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
December 12, 2013
Mercenary Zuri, along with her brothers are on a job to transport the women who caused the plague. When they are close to their destination, they encounter trouble, Zuri and one of her brothers are injured. They are taken in and put on lock down by Henri. His intentions good, but he does have other motives. He plans to study the Harbinger to see how the plague was started. What wasn't expected was Henri finding Zuri so captivating.
Excellent read! I really enjoyed Zuri and Henri's story. They are very different people, a mercenary and a healer. From their first meeting they have this great flirty banter that was just fun to read. Henri is a character that was introduced in the first book, A Hint of Frost. So, glad he got his own story. A Breath of Winter is such an enticing read, one of my favorites in the series. If the story description doesn't get you interested, the beautiful cover will. Definitely a must read.
For those who are curious, this isn't what I would call a stand alone. Definitely read the other books before this one, especially A Time of Dying.
Excellent read! I really enjoyed Zuri and Henri's story. They are very different people, a mercenary and a healer. From their first meeting they have this great flirty banter that was just fun to read. Henri is a character that was introduced in the first book, A Hint of Frost. So, glad he got his own story. A Breath of Winter is such an enticing read, one of my favorites in the series. If the story description doesn't get you interested, the beautiful cover will. Definitely a must read.
For those who are curious, this isn't what I would call a stand alone. Definitely read the other books before this one, especially A Time of Dying.
August 25, 2014
On a mercenary mission with her brothers, Zuri finds herself in a bind. They´re moving a dangerous ward, a Harbinger out for more blood, when they´re stopped by a guard not aware of their mission.
In the altercation Zuri is injured in a bad way. As luck will have it, Erania´s healer is nearby and ready to care for her.
Henri didn´t expect the mercenary as quick as they came, and he sure didn´t expect one of them to be a woman. Or as alluring as she is.
Can he focus on his work or will she affect him more than what is good for either of them? And why is this Harbinger as smug as she is?
What does she know that they don´t?
Fantasy Romance, action, suspense and smutty fluff in a great, fast paced combo. Love this series!! I´m always kept on the edge of my seat while reading =)
In the altercation Zuri is injured in a bad way. As luck will have it, Erania´s healer is nearby and ready to care for her.
Henri didn´t expect the mercenary as quick as they came, and he sure didn´t expect one of them to be a woman. Or as alluring as she is.
Can he focus on his work or will she affect him more than what is good for either of them? And why is this Harbinger as smug as she is?
What does she know that they don´t?
Fantasy Romance, action, suspense and smutty fluff in a great, fast paced combo. Love this series!! I´m always kept on the edge of my seat while reading =)
March 28, 2016
Book 4 of Araneae Nation, preceded by A Time of Dying and followed by A Veil of Secrets. The story follows where the last book ended with Zuri and her brothers escorting the harbinger Lailah to Erania for Henri to study. At the last stretch of the journey Zuri is injured and spends most of the book in a wheelchair with Henri aiding her. The story contains an interesting twist about the necrita and what they are all about. Luckily our heroine is able to survive and realize that Henri is meant for her. Again the romance is lacking. In this story we meet Marne and Edan and Asher, who are the main characters of the next book.
January 27, 2014
This has fast become a favorite series of mine, I love the world the author has created, and I am glad this story continued to build and expand on that world and did not disapoint as so many other series have recently.
September 10, 2014
I truly love this series, great paranormal romance tales that are completely different than any other series I've read. The Araneae Nation and it's inhabitants are original and captivating. As with the other books, this tale brings the perfect balance of romance, danger, adventure and mystery.
December 16, 2013
Did I... miss a book in this series somehow? *scratches head*
Still, Yea Araneae Nation!
Still, Yea Araneae Nation!
November 25, 2014
Reviewed for RT Book Reviews December 2014 issue: http://www.rtbookreviews.com/book-review/breath-winter
December 28, 2014
Glad I went back to this one. Nice suspense re: the harbingers. I do wish the ending had been more developed.
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