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Sun and Moon #1
The Silent Prince
I will be free, even if it kills me.
As a prince of Ostovan, I had everything I the finest wine in my cup, scores of attractive knights to duel and bed, and an endless library of books. I never even saw my brother’s betrayal coming.
Captured and stripped of my voice by a magical collar, I’m sold as a slave to a warband of elves. I’ll stop at nothing to get both my freedom and my voice back, even if it means risking death at the hands of my captors.
And none of my elvish captors is more dangerous—or alluring—than Prince Ruith. Deceptively charming and deviously brutal in his methods, Ruith’s only goal seems to be torturing me daily for his own entertainment.
The more time I’m forced to spend with him, the more I find I crave his particular brand of cruelty. Despite his treatment, I come to see Ruith as my protector…and maybe something more. There’s definitely a spark between us, one that could turn into an all-consuming inferno if I’m not careful.
But he’ll only ever see me as a pawn in his power games, and I can only afford to treat him like my enemy, especially if I want to get this collar off and return to Ostovan to kill my brother.
I will have my vengeance, even if it kills us both.
The Silent Prince is a slow-burn enemies to lovers dark MM fantasy romance that has a happy for now ending. Please see the interior for content warnings.
As a prince of Ostovan, I had everything I the finest wine in my cup, scores of attractive knights to duel and bed, and an endless library of books. I never even saw my brother’s betrayal coming.
Captured and stripped of my voice by a magical collar, I’m sold as a slave to a warband of elves. I’ll stop at nothing to get both my freedom and my voice back, even if it means risking death at the hands of my captors.
And none of my elvish captors is more dangerous—or alluring—than Prince Ruith. Deceptively charming and deviously brutal in his methods, Ruith’s only goal seems to be torturing me daily for his own entertainment.
The more time I’m forced to spend with him, the more I find I crave his particular brand of cruelty. Despite his treatment, I come to see Ruith as my protector…and maybe something more. There’s definitely a spark between us, one that could turn into an all-consuming inferno if I’m not careful.
But he’ll only ever see me as a pawn in his power games, and I can only afford to treat him like my enemy, especially if I want to get this collar off and return to Ostovan to kill my brother.
I will have my vengeance, even if it kills us both.
The Silent Prince is a slow-burn enemies to lovers dark MM fantasy romance that has a happy for now ending. Please see the interior for content warnings.
301 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 25, 2024
199 people are currently reading
592 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 94 reviews
July 12, 2024
you can definitely tell it’s heavily inspired by captive prince, as confirmed by the author’s note at the end, but that’s not necessarily a good thing when it reads like an off brand version….similar but lacking in execution….just makes me wanna reread captive prince🤣 i might read book 2 when it comes out tho idk yet
April 26, 2024
A MM SLOWBURN dark romance in a high fantasy setting! It's a Captor/Captive, (legit, like killing hatred) enemies to lovers with a bit of Size difference, & a rebellion in making!
I devoured my #ARC in around 6hrs. I loved Elindir, liked Ruith (but I got mixed feelings too), R's bros were interesting. THAT ENDING, (it's HFN but...) UGH, I WANT BOOK 2 ASAP.
Elinder is a bastard human prince who's betrayed, yearns for revenge but bruised, & sold to the elves. He's fierce, head-strong, caring. With a collar that steals his voice. They don't break him, but E learns to bend.
Ruith is the heir to 1 of the major elf clan, son of a ruthless warlord. R's calculating, fierce & a good leader yet with a sweet, haunting side. Planning a coup, E's a chance.
High fantasy isn't normally my scene, but this story enamored me! The world is fascinating, the journey a heart-racing ride. Some scenes dance the edge of horrifying (TW). E+R are just starting here. Hatred, conflicting desires, submission. We get some sweetness, but with that angst, I'm hungry for more love.
I'm glad E ended up being R's equal! DAMN, R played a long game. It's such a complex situation, especially for the romance, I'm excited to know where they go from here. I WANT THEM BOTH TO GET THEIR REVENGE 😤. RTC.
Story Ratings:
POV: 1st person, Dual POV
1) Overall Enjoyment—> 5🛡️/5
2) The Characters: 4.75/5
3) Top feels: 😳🤐🙃😏🥺😖😤😉🤣😅😍😁😮🤧🤢🥳🗡️☠️☀️🌙
4) Steamy scenes: 1.5/5
5) Levels: Cute+Sweet: 3/5
Angst+Slowburn: 4/5
Dark+Action: 3.75/5
6) Creativity + world: 5/5
7) Plot arc: (Enemies, Slave, battles) 4.75/5
8) Writing style + pace: 4.7/5
I devoured my #ARC in around 6hrs. I loved Elindir, liked Ruith (but I got mixed feelings too), R's bros were interesting. THAT ENDING, (it's HFN but...) UGH, I WANT BOOK 2 ASAP.
Elinder is a bastard human prince who's betrayed, yearns for revenge but bruised, & sold to the elves. He's fierce, head-strong, caring. With a collar that steals his voice. They don't break him, but E learns to bend.
Ruith is the heir to 1 of the major elf clan, son of a ruthless warlord. R's calculating, fierce & a good leader yet with a sweet, haunting side. Planning a coup, E's a chance.
High fantasy isn't normally my scene, but this story enamored me! The world is fascinating, the journey a heart-racing ride. Some scenes dance the edge of horrifying (TW). E+R are just starting here. Hatred, conflicting desires, submission. We get some sweetness, but with that angst, I'm hungry for more love.
I'm glad E ended up being R's equal! DAMN, R played a long game. It's such a complex situation, especially for the romance, I'm excited to know where they go from here. I WANT THEM BOTH TO GET THEIR REVENGE 😤. RTC.
Story Ratings:
POV: 1st person, Dual POV
1) Overall Enjoyment—> 5🛡️/5
2) The Characters: 4.75/5
3) Top feels: 😳🤐🙃😏🥺😖😤😉🤣😅😍😁😮🤧🤢🥳🗡️☠️☀️🌙
4) Steamy scenes: 1.5/5
5) Levels: Cute+Sweet: 3/5
Angst+Slowburn: 4/5
Dark+Action: 3.75/5
6) Creativity + world: 5/5
7) Plot arc: (Enemies, Slave, battles) 4.75/5
8) Writing style + pace: 4.7/5
April 18, 2024
The Silent Prince is a slow burn romantasy novel that you should definitely read 😊. Elindir is betrayed by his half-brother, forced into a collar that renders him mute and given as a slave tribute to Prince Ruith. Ruith has his own problems to solve, like entrenched social injustice and his father's cruel, petty leadership. He doesn't need to add to all of that by taking on a slave who has no intention of being cowed or easily submitting. Can Ruith and Elindir find a way to become allies when trust is fragile and the power imbalance between them is massive?
I'm not sure what it says about me but I knew I had to read this book as soon as I saw the cover with one MC holding the leash of the other 😂. The blurb sounded fantastic too and who doesn't love L Eveland books (!) so I dived right in. It's been awhile since I read a romance/fantasy book and I really loved it. I thought the world building was excellent- sometimes it can be really tedious to figure out a whole bunch of strange names and different cultures but it flowed in a way that was engaging and easy to follow. I was a bit worried in the first few chapters that I wasn't going to like Ruith but he grew on me really quickly. He tends to view people and assets like chess pieces in the larger game he's playing, but he's not 100% comfortable with that and you can see how his circumstances have shaped him. My favourite part was the complexity of the characters- you may not love every decision they make but you'll understand their motivations/hopes/fears which to me is even better. I don't like basic characters who are "good" all of the time or cookie cutter "villains."
The Silent Prince gave me Captive Prince vibes throughout. If you are a fan of that series, romantasy in general, or just appreciate well-written books, I think you'll love this story. It does end on a minor sort-of cliffhanger, but not the kind that keeps you up late at night glaring at the season cursing the author. Give this book a shot- you won't regret it!
Rating: 4.5
Angst: 4/5
Steam: 2/5 but it totally works
I received an advance copy of this book and this is my honest review.
I'm not sure what it says about me but I knew I had to read this book as soon as I saw the cover with one MC holding the leash of the other 😂. The blurb sounded fantastic too and who doesn't love L Eveland books (!) so I dived right in. It's been awhile since I read a romance/fantasy book and I really loved it. I thought the world building was excellent- sometimes it can be really tedious to figure out a whole bunch of strange names and different cultures but it flowed in a way that was engaging and easy to follow. I was a bit worried in the first few chapters that I wasn't going to like Ruith but he grew on me really quickly. He tends to view people and assets like chess pieces in the larger game he's playing, but he's not 100% comfortable with that and you can see how his circumstances have shaped him. My favourite part was the complexity of the characters- you may not love every decision they make but you'll understand their motivations/hopes/fears which to me is even better. I don't like basic characters who are "good" all of the time or cookie cutter "villains."
The Silent Prince gave me Captive Prince vibes throughout. If you are a fan of that series, romantasy in general, or just appreciate well-written books, I think you'll love this story. It does end on a minor sort-of cliffhanger, but not the kind that keeps you up late at night glaring at the season cursing the author. Give this book a shot- you won't regret it!
Rating: 4.5
Angst: 4/5
Steam: 2/5 but it totally works
I received an advance copy of this book and this is my honest review.
June 11, 2024
This is the first book I've read since Captive Prince that I would recommend if you are looking for something similar.
Most dark fantasies I was recommended were more morally dark/rapey or the love interest sexually objectified their partners refusing to treat them like an equal. The Silent Prince made me a little nervous at the start, but that was unfounded and the morality improved.
While The Silent Prince has a master/slave relationship, Ruith and Elindir are truly equals in unequal circumstances. They are leaders, strategists, and fighters. While there's power struggles between them, Ruith lifts Elindir up as their trust grows and gives him a seat at the table with responsibility and respect. Their relationship is rocky, but genuine and engaging. Think fated mates but enemies to lovers and forbidden romance.
There are a few plot points that are reminiscent of Captive Prince plot line, but L. Eveland makes it her own and addresses Game of Thrones and Captive Prince as major inspirations during writing this work. I absolutely loved how Elindir lost his voice and was unable to express himself. There were a lot of hurdles, and risks for him that made the story tense, exciting, and touching.
In terms of world-building, it's decent. Most of the story takes place on the road and in military camps so culture isn't as complex as it'd be in other settings. Interestingly, the Elves in L. Eveland's book are more like viking savages, raping, pillaging and capturing slaves. They struggle growing body hair so they find it attractive in humans.
I'm conflicted on this one, but it is the first equal in unequal circumstance slave/master fantasy romance I've found since Captive Prince, and it has its own spin that I enjoyed, so I'd recommend.
Most dark fantasies I was recommended were more morally dark/rapey or the love interest sexually objectified their partners refusing to treat them like an equal. The Silent Prince made me a little nervous at the start, but that was unfounded and the morality improved.
While The Silent Prince has a master/slave relationship, Ruith and Elindir are truly equals in unequal circumstances. They are leaders, strategists, and fighters. While there's power struggles between them, Ruith lifts Elindir up as their trust grows and gives him a seat at the table with responsibility and respect. Their relationship is rocky, but genuine and engaging. Think fated mates but enemies to lovers and forbidden romance.
There are a few plot points that are reminiscent of Captive Prince plot line, but L. Eveland makes it her own and addresses Game of Thrones and Captive Prince as major inspirations during writing this work. I absolutely loved how Elindir lost his voice and was unable to express himself. There were a lot of hurdles, and risks for him that made the story tense, exciting, and touching.
In terms of world-building, it's decent. Most of the story takes place on the road and in military camps so culture isn't as complex as it'd be in other settings. Interestingly, the Elves in L. Eveland's book are more like viking savages, raping, pillaging and capturing slaves. They struggle growing body hair so they find it attractive in humans.
I'm conflicted on this one, but it is the first equal in unequal circumstance slave/master fantasy romance I've found since Captive Prince, and it has its own spin that I enjoyed, so I'd recommend.
December 6, 2024
1.5 stars. This is a series review for books 1 and 2. I doubt I'll read book 3.
Look, this series had great promise, and it started decently well, but then it shit the bed in three major ways.
ISSUE #1: Off-brand Captive Prince
This story is heavily influenced by the Captive Prince series. The author generally acknowledges this, and it's not done in a way that seems plagiarized. But, it makes for a distracting and fairly boring read. Every time I come across a plot point that's just a variation of a plot point in Captive Prince, I'm taken out of the book and instead thinking about Damen and Laurent.
Examples (some general low-key spoilers here):
- one MC is betrayed by his brother in a conspiracy to take the throne
- said brother killed their father by poisoning
- other MC is fighting against manipulative family
- one MC thinks the other MC can't understand his language initially
- one MC whips the other
- one MC saved the other from assassination attempt in their chambers
- side characters overlap immensely (Ieduin is Jory, Nessir is his little play thing that betrays them all like in Captive Prince, etc.)
That's just off the top of my head. There's so many more instances of these problems. Even the pattern of scenes seems to be mimicked to a large degree.
The biggest issue of all about this crap: it's nowhere near as good as Captive Prince. So you're just getting the knock-off version with some magic and elves throughout. Why read this average "Captive Prince" type story when you can get the reat thing?
ISSUE #2: Elindir wakes up as a doormat, Ruith never takes responsibility
This issue pissed me all the way off. Elindir starts out as this really strong character in the beginning, always standing up for himself in clever ways. But then one night... it's just like he decides to become passive overnight for no reason. He starts yeilding everything. No more backbone.
Related to that, Ruith NEVER takes responsibility for the bad shit he did to Elindir. Even after he's in love with Elindir, he doesn't apologize at all. None. Not a single time, folks. Doesn't even talk about it with him. They don't communicate.
They needed to use their words to talk to each other, but every time it seems like might trigger that conversation, they'd just end up fucking around instead. That happened like four times I think? And then the story just moves on, didn't resolve anything either.
In other words, there is virtually NO relationship development at all. Just solve problems with sex! 🙄 I fucking hate books/plpts like that.
ISSUE #3: Surprise BDSM
This was so fucking weird. Apparently, closer to the end of book #2, Elindir decides he needs to be dominated. He's actually a sub and being an abused slave is what makes his world go round. But he didn't learn that until Ruith whipped and terrorized him. Give me a fucking break. That sex scene later in book #2 where this comes up... it's just weird and unsettling. Basically comes out of nowhere. It's very related to #2 above.
Their whole dynamic is just off. It is NOTHING like Damen and Laurent. Not even close, in my opinion.
---
So, my recommendation: this series is a waste of time. I doubt I'll read book 3. I didn't realize how much of a waste of time it until halfway through. Such a waste.
Look, this series had great promise, and it started decently well, but then it shit the bed in three major ways.
ISSUE #1: Off-brand Captive Prince
This story is heavily influenced by the Captive Prince series. The author generally acknowledges this, and it's not done in a way that seems plagiarized. But, it makes for a distracting and fairly boring read. Every time I come across a plot point that's just a variation of a plot point in Captive Prince, I'm taken out of the book and instead thinking about Damen and Laurent.
Examples (some general low-key spoilers here):
- one MC is betrayed by his brother in a conspiracy to take the throne
- said brother killed their father by poisoning
- other MC is fighting against manipulative family
- one MC thinks the other MC can't understand his language initially
- one MC whips the other
- one MC saved the other from assassination attempt in their chambers
- side characters overlap immensely (Ieduin is Jory, Nessir is his little play thing that betrays them all like in Captive Prince, etc.)
That's just off the top of my head. There's so many more instances of these problems. Even the pattern of scenes seems to be mimicked to a large degree.
The biggest issue of all about this crap: it's nowhere near as good as Captive Prince. So you're just getting the knock-off version with some magic and elves throughout. Why read this average "Captive Prince" type story when you can get the reat thing?
ISSUE #2: Elindir wakes up as a doormat, Ruith never takes responsibility
This issue pissed me all the way off. Elindir starts out as this really strong character in the beginning, always standing up for himself in clever ways. But then one night... it's just like he decides to become passive overnight for no reason. He starts yeilding everything. No more backbone.
Related to that, Ruith NEVER takes responsibility for the bad shit he did to Elindir. Even after he's in love with Elindir, he doesn't apologize at all. None. Not a single time, folks. Doesn't even talk about it with him. They don't communicate.
They needed to use their words to talk to each other, but every time it seems like might trigger that conversation, they'd just end up fucking around instead. That happened like four times I think? And then the story just moves on, didn't resolve anything either.
In other words, there is virtually NO relationship development at all. Just solve problems with sex! 🙄 I fucking hate books/plpts like that.
ISSUE #3: Surprise BDSM
This was so fucking weird. Apparently, closer to the end of book #2, Elindir decides he needs to be dominated. He's actually a sub and being an abused slave is what makes his world go round. But he didn't learn that until Ruith whipped and terrorized him. Give me a fucking break. That sex scene later in book #2 where this comes up... it's just weird and unsettling. Basically comes out of nowhere. It's very related to #2 above.
Their whole dynamic is just off. It is NOTHING like Damen and Laurent. Not even close, in my opinion.
---
So, my recommendation: this series is a waste of time. I doubt I'll read book 3. I didn't realize how much of a waste of time it until halfway through. Such a waste.
May 12, 2024
This had some interesting ideas and detailed world building. Heavily inspired by Captive Prince, which is ok but it didn’t match CP’s tension & political intrigue that makes that story so good. Too much was told that would have been more impactful if it had been shown slowly and then dramatically revealed toward the end.
April 22, 2024
The Silent Prince is the first book in the new Sun and Moon series by L Eveland. This book kept me interested from the beginning. I couldn't put it down because I had to find out what was coming next. Elindir is a prince who is betrayed by his half brother and has his voice taken away by a magic collar. Prince Ruith is given Elindir as tribute. The steam between these two is off the charts even though the deed doesn't take place for a while. I felt so many emotions during this story. Both the main characters are strong men with their own issues. I loved the side characters also and hope we get to see more of them. This book made me cry and get angry several times. I can't wait for the next book in the series. I would definitely recommend this book as a 5 star read.
August 13, 2024
Too much didn’t quite add up. For one, why didn’t Michail keep his half-brother? Sending him off where he might die any number of ways means the spell would stop working and he would succumb to the disease again. Wouldn’t you want your remedy on hand and safe?
Also, Elindir took to being a slave pretty quickly. Fought it quite a lot at first for a few days, then after admitting he knew the language he basically was doing what was told with little argument.
This seems like a B-rated version of Bloodraven. Doesn’t have to be as cruel as that book (starts off with some explicit torture) but take some authenticity from it. “The Silent Prince” won’t get a reread from me, Bloodraven already has.
DNF at 88%
Also, Elindir took to being a slave pretty quickly. Fought it quite a lot at first for a few days, then after admitting he knew the language he basically was doing what was told with little argument.
This seems like a B-rated version of Bloodraven. Doesn’t have to be as cruel as that book (starts off with some explicit torture) but take some authenticity from it. “The Silent Prince” won’t get a reread from me, Bloodraven already has.
DNF at 88%
June 29, 2024
Hard to keep interested in
The story line was ok. The thing is that the story drag on with the two main characters. I usually read these kind of stories rather quickly. I had a hard time making myself finish this one and not sure if I will continue when the second one in the series comes out. It was hard to stay interested in the characters and the slow pace that seemed to be too dragged out. The two main characters seemed to be dealing with the same issues throughout the whole first book with no headway or really much change in their feelings toward one another. I found it hard to really care about them at all.
The story line was ok. The thing is that the story drag on with the two main characters. I usually read these kind of stories rather quickly. I had a hard time making myself finish this one and not sure if I will continue when the second one in the series comes out. It was hard to stay interested in the characters and the slow pace that seemed to be too dragged out. The two main characters seemed to be dealing with the same issues throughout the whole first book with no headway or really much change in their feelings toward one another. I found it hard to really care about them at all.
July 19, 2024
2.5 Stars
Good in some parts but I lost interest. The world-building needed work, some of the decisions and emotions of Elindir and Ruith did not make sense at times. This was heavily inspired by Captive Prince but it did not hit the same level of tension and emotion between the MCs IMO. I do plan to read the next book to at least see how Ruith and everyone reacts when they find out .
Good in some parts but I lost interest. The world-building needed work, some of the decisions and emotions of Elindir and Ruith did not make sense at times. This was heavily inspired by Captive Prince but it did not hit the same level of tension and emotion between the MCs IMO. I do plan to read the next book to at least see how Ruith and everyone reacts when they find out .
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January 31, 2025I decided I am not going to rate this one. I dropped it at 45% and I normally would rate it, but it is hard for me to decide if I like it or not. At the end of the day... it seems to have no big problem in my eyes, a part from a generic "I cannot get into it".
If I had to explain exactly what I liked and disliked, I think I kinda got stuck on the plot-device that allows the two characters to meet: Elindir is a bastard prince and the only remaining heir of the deceased king... excluding his traitorous brother. The traitorous prince (now king) puts a magic collar on him which, among other things, steals his ability to speak.
Ruith instead is a prince, an elf, and a warlord. And Elindir's master after the king gifts Elindir (as a slave) to him without telling Ruith who Elindir really is.
The book is well written, there is tension, there is angst, both characters (Ruith and Elindir) have their own motivations and are not particularly enthusiastic about the other if not for their personal reasons. And yet, at every page I kept thinking "This makes no sense, the premise makes no sense". The collar around Elindir's neck is filled with a magic that steals Elindir's blood and turns it into a "healing force" to help the traitorous king heals from a plague... okay. This means that Elindir must be kept alive and in the collar, but still he is given as a slave to the elves. He could be killed, he could try to run, he could betray the king (the elves and humans are enemies) - anything could happen. Why would the traitorous king even let him out of his sight? It makes absolutely no sense, and it made me so frustrated I could not continue.
The novel also employed a trickery that I truly dislike with Ruith. Ruith is presented as a ruthless warrior. He is used to elves having human slaves, and he is indifferent to them. He acts with a casual cruelty - but then, the more I read, the more I realized he was not as cruel. And yet, it did not seem earned. There was no development, but simply a "ops, I made you believe he was super cruel, but in reality he cares about the slaves!". It was absolutely unearned.
If I had to explain exactly what I liked and disliked, I think I kinda got stuck on the plot-device that allows the two characters to meet: Elindir is a bastard prince and the only remaining heir of the deceased king... excluding his traitorous brother. The traitorous prince (now king) puts a magic collar on him which, among other things, steals his ability to speak.
Ruith instead is a prince, an elf, and a warlord. And Elindir's master after the king gifts Elindir (as a slave) to him without telling Ruith who Elindir really is.
The book is well written, there is tension, there is angst, both characters (Ruith and Elindir) have their own motivations and are not particularly enthusiastic about the other if not for their personal reasons. And yet, at every page I kept thinking "This makes no sense, the premise makes no sense". The collar around Elindir's neck is filled with a magic that steals Elindir's blood and turns it into a "healing force" to help the traitorous king heals from a plague... okay. This means that Elindir must be kept alive and in the collar, but still he is given as a slave to the elves. He could be killed, he could try to run, he could betray the king (the elves and humans are enemies) - anything could happen. Why would the traitorous king even let him out of his sight? It makes absolutely no sense, and it made me so frustrated I could not continue.
The novel also employed a trickery that I truly dislike with Ruith. Ruith is presented as a ruthless warrior. He is used to elves having human slaves, and he is indifferent to them. He acts with a casual cruelty - but then, the more I read, the more I realized he was not as cruel. And yet, it did not seem earned. There was no development, but simply a "ops, I made you believe he was super cruel, but in reality he cares about the slaves!". It was absolutely unearned.
July 21, 2024
I need more now! That last sentence in the book, I can’t wait to find out the reaction To Elindir’s request, once they find out who they really have. I had so hoped this would be a HEA not a happy for now, but alas I have to wait for that. The baddies need to get dead and the two princes’ need to be crowned kings, alliances need to be formed and happy endings for Ruith and his brothers need to happen!
August 2, 2024
4.5 Stars
It’s self-described as M/M “House of The Dragon meets Captive Prince” and I’d agree to that. Definitely as dark, captivating, and possibly triggering. I enjoyed it a lot, but don’t be fooled at the “HFN” ending the summary claims. That ending has me foaming at the mouth for book two!
Spice: 2/5 for book one. Like Captive Prince, there’s a lot of environmental/abusive sexual content, but the actual romance is slower burn.
Angst: 4/5
It’s self-described as M/M “House of The Dragon meets Captive Prince” and I’d agree to that. Definitely as dark, captivating, and possibly triggering. I enjoyed it a lot, but don’t be fooled at the “HFN” ending the summary claims. That ending has me foaming at the mouth for book two!
Spice: 2/5 for book one. Like Captive Prince, there’s a lot of environmental/abusive sexual content, but the actual romance is slower burn.
Angst: 4/5
April 25, 2024
I honestly loved this book and I can't wait for book 2. The slow burn between Ruith and Elindir is fantastic so if your expecting range from the get-go then this is not the book for you. I love that Elindir went from a life of a royal to a slave real quick. I also love that Elindir is super stubborn (if I'm thinking of the right word) and Ruith is looking at the big picture which works well when your a prince.
I received an arc copy for an honest review.
I received an arc copy for an honest review.
December 3, 2024
Holy crap! This was amazing! Strangely enough, i have no notes on this one. L Evelands talent in MM Romance Fantasy is perfectly demonstarted here and i was able to get super engrossed in the world, story and characters (i binged it in a day lol) -- their contemporary romances have sometimes left me wanting more but THIS was perfection *chefs kiss*. I loved this as much as their A Dream of Flames and Shadow book series.. if not maaaybe a little bit more bc of the pacing of the plot so this as a book 1 does get to end on a nice HFN. But if you liked that book then i think you'll LOVE this one - provided your on board woth the general themes, check the content warnings for yourself!
This is a brilliant beginning of this series. These two are excellent enemies to lovers (truly fr fr - not "rivals" or "mild dislike" lol). I also like that there is respect there even tho they are enemies - it helps to add some "gray" to the relationship and i loved that aspect. The build up to the spice is a slow burn but feels very true to the relationship they have and it made me happy that spice between the two MCs was valued and handled with more care than i thought it would be considering the captor/slave circumstances. I thoroughly enjoyed the journey to the spice and am looking forward to more in the rest of the series.
The pacing of the plot is well done and even though the ending is such a cliffhanger, it's just made me super excited for the next one in the series (some cliffhangers have left me feeling frustrated but this one leaves me feeling really "jump around the room" excited!).
Also side note: i love seeing trans and nonbinary characters in the main cast (not MCs) here, it brought me joy, ty! 💜
Also, personal note: im the first to post a review! Hehe pretty cool
*I got an arc copy of this book so i avoided being specific with plot points
This is a brilliant beginning of this series. These two are excellent enemies to lovers (truly fr fr - not "rivals" or "mild dislike" lol). I also like that there is respect there even tho they are enemies - it helps to add some "gray" to the relationship and i loved that aspect. The build up to the spice is a slow burn but feels very true to the relationship they have and it made me happy that spice between the two MCs was valued and handled with more care than i thought it would be considering the captor/slave circumstances. I thoroughly enjoyed the journey to the spice and am looking forward to more in the rest of the series.
The pacing of the plot is well done and even though the ending is such a cliffhanger, it's just made me super excited for the next one in the series (some cliffhangers have left me feeling frustrated but this one leaves me feeling really "jump around the room" excited!).
Also side note: i love seeing trans and nonbinary characters in the main cast (not MCs) here, it brought me joy, ty! 💜
Also, personal note: im the first to post a review! Hehe pretty cool
*I got an arc copy of this book so i avoided being specific with plot points
April 29, 2024
3.5 stars
I could tell the author was a fan of Captive Prince by the many similarities (almost too many) in both stories (prince betrayed by brother and sold as a bed slave while true identity was hidden, slaves forced to fight naked for the entertainment of others, slave being whipped bloody while tied to a post, spoiled pet always trying to get the slave in trouble, alliance being made in secret with clan of warrior women for the price of strong "seed," political coup in the works with enemies banding together, slow burn between MCs, etc.).
I also didn't think this was as dark as advertised. Elindir's master Ruith could have been so much more cruel and forced him to do any number of unspeakable things. And while Ruith was far from affectionate and a master manipulator, he wasn't an evil bastard. They both kept their feelings locked down pretty tight so it was definitely a slow burn between them. I'm still not even sure they're 100% on the same page at the end of this book. But the cliffhanger definitely has my attention and I can't wait to see what treachery is in store next.
I could tell the author was a fan of Captive Prince by the many similarities (almost too many) in both stories (prince betrayed by brother and sold as a bed slave while true identity was hidden, slaves forced to fight naked for the entertainment of others, slave being whipped bloody while tied to a post, spoiled pet always trying to get the slave in trouble, alliance being made in secret with clan of warrior women for the price of strong "seed," political coup in the works with enemies banding together, slow burn between MCs, etc.).
I also didn't think this was as dark as advertised. Elindir's master Ruith could have been so much more cruel and forced him to do any number of unspeakable things. And while Ruith was far from affectionate and a master manipulator, he wasn't an evil bastard. They both kept their feelings locked down pretty tight so it was definitely a slow burn between them. I'm still not even sure they're 100% on the same page at the end of this book. But the cliffhanger definitely has my attention and I can't wait to see what treachery is in store next.
July 20, 2024
The language is pretentious and heavy, making this book a hard work.
Dark doesn't have to be a struggle to read, and I am struggling here. Here's an example or three, and keep in mind that this is all on one page:
"He turned his head, eying the dead, his earrings making a tinkling sound." The sequence is all wrong, it gives an impression of live earrings 🤪
"We had already overstayed our welcome in the human lands by many weeks to collect more slaves, more treasure, more everything..." ... did humans actually welcome these elves to begin with? Welcome, elves! Please, murder us and take our loved ones for slaves, and loot our homes too. Like, WTF?😬
"Kat shook his head and swatted away the flies, sending his golden curls flying." ...um, I get the impression Kat swatted the flies with his hair 🤣
Others have already mentioned the story's resemblance to Captive Prince.
So, why waste time here, when I can simply reread and enjoy CP?
1 star.
Dark doesn't have to be a struggle to read, and I am struggling here. Here's an example or three, and keep in mind that this is all on one page:
"He turned his head, eying the dead, his earrings making a tinkling sound." The sequence is all wrong, it gives an impression of live earrings 🤪
"We had already overstayed our welcome in the human lands by many weeks to collect more slaves, more treasure, more everything..." ... did humans actually welcome these elves to begin with? Welcome, elves! Please, murder us and take our loved ones for slaves, and loot our homes too. Like, WTF?😬
"Kat shook his head and swatted away the flies, sending his golden curls flying." ...um, I get the impression Kat swatted the flies with his hair 🤣
Others have already mentioned the story's resemblance to Captive Prince.
So, why waste time here, when I can simply reread and enjoy CP?
1 star.
December 25, 2024
2.75 ⭐️
took me 90% of the book to get a grasp on the politics and it was a little too slow on the romance side for me
took me 90% of the book to get a grasp on the politics and it was a little too slow on the romance side for me
April 28, 2024
Okay so overall rating is it’s a really good book, with just the right amount of scheming, mystery and hidden agendas (and of course hidden identities). ❤️
I can totally see the inspiration from both GOT and Captive Prince, and I love it for it😉
When that is said: There’s missing a bit of a better introduction to the universe, and who’s who, in the storytelling.
yes I’m aware of the character list in the front but for me that is a bit spoiler-ish.
Plus, it never once is explained what a ‘magical tap’ is. And no I’m not stupid so I can figure it out kinda, but it would’ve been nice to hear the authors description of this.
These negative comments are only my personal preference for a book, so others may not be bothered by it but it irritates me that the mental state of being mute isn’t addressed.
Ruith is otherwise so clever, so why doesn’t he wonder about WHY Elindir’s voice has been removed. What purpose does this serve?
The analyses of the characters motives, their bodylanguage g’ets better Definitly as we progress through the book but I would like it a bit more in the beginning.
Then let me just say: THAT CLIFFHANGER OMG!! Arghhh *silent screams * I need the next one now asap PLEASE!!!😘😅
Running to follow the fb page so I know as soon as the next one is ready for preorder!
I can totally see the inspiration from both GOT and Captive Prince, and I love it for it😉
When that is said: There’s missing a bit of a better introduction to the universe, and who’s who, in the storytelling.
yes I’m aware of the character list in the front but for me that is a bit spoiler-ish.
Plus, it never once is explained what a ‘magical tap’ is. And no I’m not stupid so I can figure it out kinda, but it would’ve been nice to hear the authors description of this.
These negative comments are only my personal preference for a book, so others may not be bothered by it but it irritates me that the mental state of being mute isn’t addressed.
Ruith is otherwise so clever, so why doesn’t he wonder about WHY Elindir’s voice has been removed. What purpose does this serve?
The analyses of the characters motives, their bodylanguage g’ets better Definitly as we progress through the book but I would like it a bit more in the beginning.
Then let me just say: THAT CLIFFHANGER OMG!! Arghhh *silent screams * I need the next one now asap PLEASE!!!😘😅
Running to follow the fb page so I know as soon as the next one is ready for preorder!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 6, 2024
I enjoyed this quite a lot. The author has created a rich setting, I especially enjoyed the politics and building unrest as the plot unfolds. As the story begins, the king has recently died, leaving behind his two illegitimate sons and a very large power vacuum in Ostovan. Prince Elindir is captured by his evil brother Prince Michail, and finds himself sold as tribute to the elves. It’s a great open, high stakes, great suspense, and you immediately know who to root for. Elindir is strong and brave under horrific circumstances, but he won’t be broken. Ruith, his new captor is also such a compelling and complex character. If he were just cruel and ruthless, that would be less interesting to me. But, the author gives us glimpses that there’s maybe something more to him - we can see the impact of his father’s cruelty, his own conflict about his human captive, and his unease over the devastation left by his father Tarathiel’s armies. Admittedly, Ruith’s treatment of Elindir makes it very hard to see a future for these two, so this is definitely a slow burn. I’m not a big fan of slow burn but it totally works here, especially because the plot is so intriguing and juicy with drama. The ending was such a fun cliffhanger, a touch shocking and a perfect way to lead into the next book.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
April 25, 2024
Elindir is a bastard prince of Ostovan who is betrayed by his half-brother who is taking over the throne. He is tortured, forced into a collar that uses blood magic to render him mute and given as a slave tribute to Tarathiel who is the leader of the elves and their enemy. Ruith the bastard son of Tarathiel accepts the tribute in his father’s stead. While Ruith is intrigued by the gift he believes to be full of deception he is focused on his own problems regarding his father’s cruel dealings with his own people.
Ruith believes he must find a way to mold Elindir into an ally he can use against his father but as the story builds emotions bleed into their dealings and suddenly it’s not just Elindir who is trying to bend without breaking.
The romance in this sorry is definitely a slow burn, but it is so worth the wait. The plot just sucks you in and keeps you so invested that you don’t even realize it’s a slow burn.
I like that the author includes a map and character guide at the beginning as this helps greatly in tracking the plot and connections of the story.
The book does end on a HFN and I’m excited to see where the author takes us in the next book.
If you’re a fan of gritty fantasy with political intrigue, I recommend you check out this book
Ruith believes he must find a way to mold Elindir into an ally he can use against his father but as the story builds emotions bleed into their dealings and suddenly it’s not just Elindir who is trying to bend without breaking.
The romance in this sorry is definitely a slow burn, but it is so worth the wait. The plot just sucks you in and keeps you so invested that you don’t even realize it’s a slow burn.
I like that the author includes a map and character guide at the beginning as this helps greatly in tracking the plot and connections of the story.
The book does end on a HFN and I’m excited to see where the author takes us in the next book.
If you’re a fan of gritty fantasy with political intrigue, I recommend you check out this book
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 8, 2024
This book involves two queer heroes who eventually develop an intimate relationship with each other, but this story is far from a romance. Eveland excellently balances that line between telling an epic fantasy story that happens to involve queer characters and having their queerness be essential to the story without tipping the storyline toward overt romance (or failed romance).
The book’s dark beginning sets up Elindir’s external conflict well, positioning him nicely as a sympathetic hero even when he’s not a particularly good person. His strange journey places him solidly in forced proximity with Ruith. Along the way, Eveland never flinches from the dark realities of this world, including aspects of warfare and slavery. Being Ruith’s slave severely imbalances the relative power between Elindir and Ruith, but Elindir is clever enough to accrue his own form of power along the way. The way these men grow closer has little resemblance to a traditional romance arc as they develop a strange sort of codependency that resembles affection—if you squint; however, their growing connection in the context of Ruith’s slowly revealed external conflict is incredibly compelling.
Eveland nicely merges beats from fantasy and romance to force each man to battle his particular inner conflict. Ruith and Elindir don’t share love, but the bond between them is also far from hate, making the dark moment of this story truly heartbreaking. This book doesn’t end on a cliffhanger, bringing them together again at the very end, but the story is far from over. The bond between them has the potential to grow into something stronger in the next book, which I’d happily read even if the sequel is yet another unique amalgam of two of my favorite genres without the promise of a happily ever after.
Disclaimer: I received a digital review copy of this book from the author.
The book’s dark beginning sets up Elindir’s external conflict well, positioning him nicely as a sympathetic hero even when he’s not a particularly good person. His strange journey places him solidly in forced proximity with Ruith. Along the way, Eveland never flinches from the dark realities of this world, including aspects of warfare and slavery. Being Ruith’s slave severely imbalances the relative power between Elindir and Ruith, but Elindir is clever enough to accrue his own form of power along the way. The way these men grow closer has little resemblance to a traditional romance arc as they develop a strange sort of codependency that resembles affection—if you squint; however, their growing connection in the context of Ruith’s slowly revealed external conflict is incredibly compelling.
Eveland nicely merges beats from fantasy and romance to force each man to battle his particular inner conflict. Ruith and Elindir don’t share love, but the bond between them is also far from hate, making the dark moment of this story truly heartbreaking. This book doesn’t end on a cliffhanger, bringing them together again at the very end, but the story is far from over. The bond between them has the potential to grow into something stronger in the next book, which I’d happily read even if the sequel is yet another unique amalgam of two of my favorite genres without the promise of a happily ever after.
Disclaimer: I received a digital review copy of this book from the author.
June 19, 2024
WARNING!! Sorta spoilers…
Wooooooo boy oh boyyyy!!! It’s been a while since I read a good book and this was a darn good book. I usually skip world building or story building parts because it’s so boring to read at times but this was done perfectly. You can’t get bored reading this, at all. One thing that I really like is that Elindir was not weak in any way, shape, or form although being forced into servitude. I truly adore the twist, how Elindir belonged to Ruith at first (he had the ultimate power over him, controlled him, etc etc) but towards the end the roles reversed, it’s a mental thing really… a dynamic done beautifully. Like this actually really deserves the 5 stars (crazy ik). It does end on a cliffhanger but I’m lowkey not even mad abt it bc it’s so well done (Ruith planning everything from the beginning is mastermind works right there even if it’s cliche), like I’m actually excited for book 2! Elindir and Ruith😍 can’t wait to see more of their relationship and how it develops into something passionate and loyal, as loyalty is a big theme in this book. Round of applause to L Eveland!
(btw am I the only one obsessed with the cadence and vocabulary of the characters and just how they talk in general??!! It reminds me of game of thrones!!)
Wooooooo boy oh boyyyy!!! It’s been a while since I read a good book and this was a darn good book. I usually skip world building or story building parts because it’s so boring to read at times but this was done perfectly. You can’t get bored reading this, at all. One thing that I really like is that Elindir was not weak in any way, shape, or form although being forced into servitude. I truly adore the twist, how Elindir belonged to Ruith at first (he had the ultimate power over him, controlled him, etc etc) but towards the end the roles reversed, it’s a mental thing really… a dynamic done beautifully. Like this actually really deserves the 5 stars (crazy ik). It does end on a cliffhanger but I’m lowkey not even mad abt it bc it’s so well done (Ruith planning everything from the beginning is mastermind works right there even if it’s cliche), like I’m actually excited for book 2! Elindir and Ruith😍 can’t wait to see more of their relationship and how it develops into something passionate and loyal, as loyalty is a big theme in this book. Round of applause to L Eveland!
(btw am I the only one obsessed with the cadence and vocabulary of the characters and just how they talk in general??!! It reminds me of game of thrones!!)
October 11, 2025
5/5 wowww how can you leave me on a cliffhanger like that CALL THE POLICEEEEE.. no but seriously even through I knew it was coming I didn’t know it was coming.
May 2, 2024
This was way better then I was anticipating! I was going to give it 5 stars right up till the last couple chapters.
What I liked:
-the writing style
-the slow burn
-didn’t expect to get so invested in things outside the romance
-Hawk
-“my furious little sun” -Ruith about Elindir
-the boat scene and how Ruith took care of Elindir
What I didn’t like:
-I liked the romance for most of the story but it ended sadly to me. Elindir was treated so shitty by Ruith, and him finding out he had been played the whole time at the end, ended the book on a depressing note. Even their sex scene was depressing.
-Luthar being killed
-I’m confused how they got The Spine tribes to come fight at the end so fast when they had just mentioned they weren’t going to be available yet…like how did they even have time to go get them?
Might come back to review to write more later
What I liked:
-the writing style
-the slow burn
-didn’t expect to get so invested in things outside the romance
-Hawk
-“my furious little sun” -Ruith about Elindir
-the boat scene and how Ruith took care of Elindir
What I didn’t like:
-I liked the romance for most of the story but it ended sadly to me. Elindir was treated so shitty by Ruith, and him finding out he had been played the whole time at the end, ended the book on a depressing note. Even their sex scene was depressing.
-Luthar being killed
-I’m confused how they got The Spine tribes to come fight at the end so fast when they had just mentioned they weren’t going to be available yet…like how did they even have time to go get them?
Might come back to review to write more later
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 21, 2024
This blew my admittedly low expectations out of the water. Honestly that cover while not the worst, almost does a disservice to the book. The book was well written and full of interesting plot. The cover doesn’t fully bring that across and makes it look more like a slave/master erotica book when there’s really not much smut in there.
This is a perfect read for fans of The Captive Prince trilogy. There are a lot of similarities, although this one does not have as much of a big focus on court politics and manipulations. It all made sense when the author said at the end that it was one of their inspirations because it shows (not in a bad way).
I’ve been looking for a well written mm fantasy book similar to Pacat’s series and I’m so glad I stumbled upon this. I have a lot to say about the characters and the plot but I don’t want to spoil anything.
This is a perfect read for fans of The Captive Prince trilogy. There are a lot of similarities, although this one does not have as much of a big focus on court politics and manipulations. It all made sense when the author said at the end that it was one of their inspirations because it shows (not in a bad way).
I’ve been looking for a well written mm fantasy book similar to Pacat’s series and I’m so glad I stumbled upon this. I have a lot to say about the characters and the plot but I don’t want to spoil anything.
November 12, 2024
absolute must read!!
Oh my gosh. I am blown away by this book. When I decided to read it I thought it was just gonna be a dark smutty short read about a bastard prince being sold then falling for his elven captor. But holy crap it is so much more. I was addicted. The world building was amazing, I want to live in this world the author had created. The action was so so good. I’m a sucker for a good battle. The mages added in such a fun mix. I loved alll the side characters. Elindir really was like a beast in a cage. His strength was astonishing. I love him so much, but I also fell for Ruith. He is the definition of being stuck between a rock in a hard place, making bad decisions for right reasons. He is not an angel by any means but he does mean to do right by his people. Just everything about this book was amazing. I can’t wait to dive into the next one.
Oh my gosh. I am blown away by this book. When I decided to read it I thought it was just gonna be a dark smutty short read about a bastard prince being sold then falling for his elven captor. But holy crap it is so much more. I was addicted. The world building was amazing, I want to live in this world the author had created. The action was so so good. I’m a sucker for a good battle. The mages added in such a fun mix. I loved alll the side characters. Elindir really was like a beast in a cage. His strength was astonishing. I love him so much, but I also fell for Ruith. He is the definition of being stuck between a rock in a hard place, making bad decisions for right reasons. He is not an angel by any means but he does mean to do right by his people. Just everything about this book was amazing. I can’t wait to dive into the next one.
December 27, 2025
I read the first three books in this series and I enjoyed them. I think I would've preferred them if they had been longer with more details. They felt rushed at times and I couldve easily seen them being more drawn out like lord of the rings or game of thrones. The dialogue was also a bit cheesey. And I noticed there were some inconsistencies (for example the dragon was won 2 years ago in a card match and then next chapter is was won 5 years ago in a card match). And there also seemed to be times when things were repeated almost word for word from one chapter to the next like the author forgot they already explained it. This is more an editing issue than anything.
But overall it was a decent, mostly lighthearted story that I enjoyed. And yes there's some stolkholme syndrome obviously going on lmao you can't read a story like this and not expect for there to be Stockholm syndrome.
But overall it was a decent, mostly lighthearted story that I enjoyed. And yes there's some stolkholme syndrome obviously going on lmao you can't read a story like this and not expect for there to be Stockholm syndrome.
April 24, 2024
When his ruler brother dies, Elindir is given into slavery to the elves by his other usurper brother, his throat encircled by a magical collar that transfers his strength to his brother and keeps him from talking. The Elf Prince Ruith takes him as his body slave in a mysterious plot to overthrow his own father and he is whipped, stunned, beaten and forced into menial servitude. All the while, he and Ruith grow attached to each other. In a super slow burn tale of old fantasy, there is magic, treachery. brutality and battles, humans, elves and slaves and ends in a cliffhanger until the next addictive installment. It is a departure from L's usual monsters or serial killers. I received a copy of this book and this is my voluntary opinion.
July 7, 2024
Rekindled my love of fantasy fiction
I'm absolutely head over heals in love with this world, and this is only book one!
These are not your standard LOTR style elves. They have a far more viking vibe, but with all the politcal machinations of Game of Thrones.
MMCs have complicated relationship that develops beautifully slowly. Elindir considers himself a political nobody at court, only to be betrayed by his scheming half brother to become a literal nobody, a nameless slave with no voice to a barbaric warlord, Ruith.
The initial expectation is that he will he will be nothing more than a sexual object to be used, but Ruith's plans are far more complex, and rely on him not succumbing to temptation.
Cannot wait for next installment of this story!
I'm absolutely head over heals in love with this world, and this is only book one!
These are not your standard LOTR style elves. They have a far more viking vibe, but with all the politcal machinations of Game of Thrones.
MMCs have complicated relationship that develops beautifully slowly. Elindir considers himself a political nobody at court, only to be betrayed by his scheming half brother to become a literal nobody, a nameless slave with no voice to a barbaric warlord, Ruith.
The initial expectation is that he will he will be nothing more than a sexual object to be used, but Ruith's plans are far more complex, and rely on him not succumbing to temptation.
Cannot wait for next installment of this story!
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